SALSIFY

Origin: France

Season: August - March

Known as the 'oyster plant' for its distinctive, subtle seafood-like flavour, salsify is an elegant winter root vegetable that offers a remarkably delicate and complex taste profile. This sophisticated vegetable presents pristine white flesh beneath its characteristically dark, bark-like exterior, with each carefully harvested root delivering exceptional eating quality.

This winter delicacy is highly prized by professional chefs for its unique flavour that sits intriguingly between artichoke and mild parsnip, enhanced by subtle nutty undertones and that distinctive hint of the sea that gives it its 'oyster plant' moniker. The long, slender roots require careful handling due to their delicate nature, but reward the cook with a remarkable eating quality that truly makes them a connoisseur's vegetable.

Proper preparation is essential to maintain salsify's pristine appearance and delicate flavour. Always peel the roots under cold running water to prevent the flesh from oxidising and turning brown.

For a classic preparation, poach the peeled salsify gently in milk and butter until tender, which preserves the vegetable's subtle flavours whilst creating a luxuriously creamy texture.

Alternatively, slice the roots thinly and roast in a hot pan with olive oil until they begin to develop colour. Add butter and continue roasting for several minutes until golden. Finish with a splash of water whilst still over the heat, creating an elegant emulsion that coats the salsify beautifully. Serve immediately when the salsify is perfectly tender.

Our salsify is grown by the Petit family in northern France's Pas-de-Calais region, where generations of expertise combine with ideal growing conditions. The region's cool climate and deep, sandy soils provide the perfect environment for producing exceptional root vegetables, ensuring each harvest delivers the superior quality that defines this remarkable winter delicacy.

Net: 1kg