As the days grow shorter and frost paints the landscape, our plates transform into cosy canvases for hearty winter fare. In the UK, seasonal vegetables take centre stage, offering both comfort and nourishment. Let’s explore what’s in season and celebrate the magic of winter cooking!
What’s in Season?
1. Root Vegetables: Earthy and Versatile
Carrots: These vibrant orange roots are sweet and packed with vitamins. Roast them with honey and thyme or blend them into a velvety soup.
Parsnips: Their nutty flavour shines when roasted alongside garlic and rosemary. Mash them with butter for a comforting side dish.
Beetroots: Roasted beets add a splash of colour to salads or can be transformed into a rich beetroot risotto.
2. Leafy Greens: Nutrient Powerhouses
Kale: This robust green thrives in winter. Sauté it with garlic and chilli flakes or toss it into hearty stews.
Cabbage: From classic coleslaw to braised red cabbage with apples, this humble veg is a winter staple.
3. Brussel Sprouts: Love 'Em or Hate 'Em
These mini cabbages divide opinions, but when roasted with bacon or caramelised onions, they become irresistible.
4. Cauliflower: The Chameleon Veg
Cauliflower can masquerade as rice, pizza crust, or creamy mash. Try a spiced cauliflower soup for warmth.
Here is a recipe for you to try that showcases the winter veg and can be eaten as a great winter warmer.
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
Ingredients:
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
1 beetroot, peeled and cubed
1 red onion, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-assisted oven).
Toss the carrots, parsnips, beetroot, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread them on a baking tray and scatter rosemary sprigs over the top.
Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender and caramelised.
Serve as a side dish or toss with cooked quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Winter food in the UK is about embracing the season’s bounty. Whether you’re simmering a vegetable stew, baking a root vegetable to go with your roast, or sipping on a steaming bowl of soup, let the flavours of winter warm your soul. So, put on your apron, light the fire, and create magic in your kitchen!
Check your understanding
What are some root vegetables commonly in season during winter in the UK?
How can you transform cauliflower into a versatile dish?
Which leafy green vegetable is often used in hearty stews?
What classic recipe is provided in the article, and what vegetables does it feature?
What are some classic uses for Brussel sprouts during the winter season?
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Vocabulary
Frost: A thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces when the temperature drops below freezing.
Canvases: In this context, it means surfaces or areas where something is displayed or created, similar to an artist’s canvas.
Hearty: Warm, filling, and nutritious, often describing food that is satisfying.
Nourishment: Food or nutrients needed for growth and health.
Velvety: Smooth and creamy in texture.
Robust: Strong and healthy, able to withstand difficult conditions.
Sauté: To cook food quickly in a small amount of oil or butter over medium-high heat.
Caramelised: Cooking something (usually with sugar) until it becomes brown and sweet.
Masquerade: To pretend to be something else.
Medley: A mixture or assortment of different things.
Sprigs: Small, thin branches or stems of a plant, often used as a garnish or flavoring in cooking.
Wholesome: Healthy and nutritious.
Bounty: Abundant supply of something, in this case, seasonal vegetables.
Simmering: Cooking something gently just below the boiling point.