Look no further. Introducing the Kalette or as we know it, the flower sprout.
We have been growing this winter crop for a couple of years now and are really pleased with the results. According to the newspaper they are quite the latest fad amongst the celebrities and food fanatics boasting high levels of nutrients and vitamins. One reason perhaps why we should not grow them but... they really do taste great.
This new vegetable was developed in the UK as a cross between brussel sprouts and kale, hence the name flower sprouts, now changed to kalette presumably to steer away from the sprout element that sometimes suffers from bad press in the UK.
These small kalettes grow well during winter and grow much the same as sprouts and in very similar conditions. They have a sweet, nutty taste and for us, they are best eaten after being steamed until just tender. Apparently they can also be boiled, roasted, eaten raw or stir-fried.
If you grow vegetables look out for the seeds to sow in early spring. The only problems we have had with them are: an attack of white fly early on but this was soon resolved using a spray of soapy water and alcohol; and needing strong supports as they do tend to get blown about in the wind. Definitely worth a try.
Ocean Mist
Recent press
We have been growing this winter crop for a couple of years now and are really pleased with the results. According to the newspaper they are quite the latest fad amongst the celebrities and food fanatics boasting high levels of nutrients and vitamins. One reason perhaps why we should not grow them but... they really do taste great.
This new vegetable was developed in the UK as a cross between brussel sprouts and kale, hence the name flower sprouts, now changed to kalette presumably to steer away from the sprout element that sometimes suffers from bad press in the UK.
These small kalettes grow well during winter and grow much the same as sprouts and in very similar conditions. They have a sweet, nutty taste and for us, they are best eaten after being steamed until just tender. Apparently they can also be boiled, roasted, eaten raw or stir-fried.
If you grow vegetables look out for the seeds to sow in early spring. The only problems we have had with them are: an attack of white fly early on but this was soon resolved using a spray of soapy water and alcohol; and needing strong supports as they do tend to get blown about in the wind. Definitely worth a try.
Ocean Mist
Recent press
I've got an allotment Ian your gonna have to give me some tips. Only Oinions did well in my first year I had a lot of failure to thrive!
ReplyDeleteMatt
Hi Matt - never give up, chat with your fellow allotment folks I am sure they would be only too willing to help and advise. Good fertile soil always helps so planty of organic matter and if you can get it, manure. Good luck.
DeleteA new one! Will look out for it, if only to give my neighbours something to stare at :)
ReplyDeleteIf it's anything like around here Andrea, they certainly will....;-)
Deletelooks like blown sprouts...which taste good anyway!
ReplyDeleteYes they do a bit GZ but as different as carrots are to parsnips. They are sweet and nutty, I love sprouts but these have the edge for me.
Delete