As the holiday season fades and a new year begins, January presents an opportunity to reset and embrace seasonal eating. However, eating seasonally isn’t just about supporting local producers and reducing your carbon footprint—it also means enjoying food at its peak freshness and flavour.  I hope you enjoy some thoughts on what’s in season this month in the UK and how to make the most of it.

When it's cold outside, there's nothing I want to do more than stand by a warm oven- so I make bread a lot in January. Using all these great root vegetables in a soup goes perfectly with warm bread and butter. Make a big enough pot that stretches over a few days of meals and is super simple.

In any case, whatever January has in store for you, however grizzly or gristly, enjoy the beginning of the year and more importantly, cook. 

Flynn's Deli

What’s in Season in January?

Vegetables: January is a fantastic month for hearty, versatile vegetables that can be used in warming winter dishes. Look out for:

• Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, swedes, and turnips are all at their best, perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding to stews.
• Brassicas: Cabbages, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower thrive in the colder months, bringing a nutrient-packed punch to your meals.
• Leeks and Onions: These staples are ideal for soups, casseroles, and tarts.
• Beetroot: This earthy root vegetable adds a vibrant touch to winter salads or can be roasted for a sweeter flavour.

Fruits: While January isn’t the most abundant month for UK-grown fruits, apples and pears are still available from storage. These classic fruits are perfect for crumbles, pies, or simply snacking.

Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley continue to thrive, offering a fragrant addition to your winter cooking.

[[ recipeID=recipe-2m5x96amj, title=Brussel Sprouts and Leeks with Pancetta ]]

How to Use January’s Bounty

• Warm Winter Salads: Combine roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beetroot with a handful of kale or cabbage. Toss with a mustardy vinaigrette and top with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
• Hearty Soups and Stews: Make the most of leeks, onions, and swedes in a comforting soup or stew. Add barley or lentils for extra heartiness, and season with fresh rosemary or thyme.
• Cabbage Classics: Shredded cabbage sautéed with garlic and a squeeze of lemon makes a simple yet delicious side dish. Or, try stuffing savoy cabbage leaves with minced meat and grains for a warming dinner.
• Sweet Treats: Apples and pears lend themselves beautifully to baked goods. A pear and almond tart or a classic apple crumble with a touch of cinnamon are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Tips for Seasonal Eating

1. Shop Locally: Visit farmers' markets or choose UK-grown produce in your supermarket to ensure you’re getting fresh, seasonal ingredients.
2. Plan Ahead: Incorporate seasonal ingredients into your weekly meal plan to reduce waste and save money.
3. Preserve the Season: If you have a surplus, try pickling, fermenting, or freezing to enjoy the flavours of January later in the year.
4. Experiment: Use this time to try new recipes and cooking techniques, making the most of the season’s offerings.

Why Eat Seasonally?

• Better Flavour: Seasonal produce is harvested at its peak, ensuring maximum taste.
• Nutritional Value: Fruits and vegetables lose nutrients over time. Eating seasonally means your food hasn’t travelled far and retains more nutrients.
• Environmental Impact: Seasonal eating reduces the need for energy-intensive greenhouses or long-distance transportation.
• Support Local Producers: Choosing seasonal produce helps sustain UK farmers and local economies.

Here to help whenever you need it

Not sure how to get started eating seasonally? Visit Flynn’s Delicatessen for the freshest, locally sourced produce, advice and handcrafted deli favourites. Whether stocking up on hearty winter dishes or looking for inspiration, our shelves are packed with everything you need to eat seasonally and deliciously. Check our online shop out or stop by today and taste the difference!