Enjoying local, seasonal produce is good for the environment and your body too.

 

A diet focused on seasonal produce has never been so cool. But why is it so important to eat the freshest, most abundantly available produce there is? The answer is pretty simple – it’s better for everyone, from yourself to the farmers, and the planet as a whole. The less distance and time we put from the moment the vegetables are pulled from the ground to when they sit on our plates, means we are getting the best possible nutrition from our food, taking out the pesticides and preservatives. Shopping locally and buying Irish produce helps reduces greenhouse emissions, as your food travels fewer miles to get to your plate, while also supporting local family businesses and farms. Here are some of the foods in season at this time of year…

 

PURPLE SPROUTING BROCCOLI - one of the biggest culinary highlights of this time of year. They bear a slight resemblance to asparagus in taste, so wherever you would use asparagus, use purple sprouting broccoli instead. Serve it lightly steamed and dress with butter or vinaigrette. A gorgeous winter veg to brighten any plate.

 

CARROTS - after potatoes, carrots are without doubt the best-known and most popular root vegetable of all. The carrots we eat today were developed from the wild carrot, but until the Middle Ages carrots eaten in this country were purple – orange carrots were imported from Holland in the 17th and 18th Centuries. Delicious raw, roasted or added to winter soups and stews, adding colour and texture.

 

BEETROOT - winter beetroots add a colour to any dish. Whether you roast it whole, blend into a classic soup or drink as juice like the Olympians do, beetroot is low in fat, full of vitamins and minerals and packed with powerful antioxidants – a health-food titan.

 

MUSHROOMS - The Pharaohs of ancient Egypt believed they had magical powers, while the Chinese used them for their health giving properties. Mushrooms contain B vitamins as well as a powerful antioxidant called selenium, which helps to support the immune system and prevent damage to cells and tissues.