Tom Kerridge's Podcast Episode 21: A Masterclass in Seasonality

In episode 21 of his podcast, Tom Kerridge explores the concept of seasonality in cooking. He discusses the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals. Kerridge also shares his tips for sourcing the best seasonal produce and provides recipes for some of his favorite seasonal dishes.

What is seasonality?

Seasonality refers to the natural cycle of food production. Different fruits, vegetables, and herbs are available at different times of the year, depending on the climate. Eating seasonal foods has many benefits, including:

* Freshness: Seasonal foods are typically picked at the peak of ripeness, so they are more flavorful and nutritious than foods that are shipped from far away.
* Flavor: Seasonal foods have a more intense flavor than foods that are grown out of season.
* Nutrition: Seasonal foods are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.
* Sustainability: Eating seasonal foods helps to reduce food waste and supports local farmers.

How to source seasonal produce

There are a few ways to source seasonal produce:

* Farmers' markets: Farmers' markets are a great place to find fresh, seasonal produce. You can talk to the farmers directly about their products and learn about how they are grown.
* CSAs: Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs allow you to buy a share of a local farm's harvest. This is a great way to get a variety of fresh, seasonal produce.
* Local grocery stores: Many local grocery stores now carry a selection of seasonal produce. Look for the "seasonal" section or ask a produce clerk for help.

Recipes for seasonal dishes

Here are a few recipes for some of Kerridge's favorite seasonal dishes:

* Spring: Asparagus and pea risotto
* Summer: Grilled salmon with lemon and dill
* Autumn: Roasted butternut squash soup
* Winter: Beef stew with root vegetables

Conclusion

Eating seasonal foods is a great way to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals while supporting local farmers. By following Kerridge's tips, you can easily incorporate seasonal produce into your cooking.