April seasonal update
As April begins, the arrival of spring brings a delightful array of fresh produce to enhance cooking.
This month, our markets are brimming with vibrant vegetables, succulent fruits, and flavourful meats and fish. Let's explore what's in season and how you can make the most of these ingredients in your kitchen.
Vegetables
April is a fantastic month for vegetables, with many fresh and tender options available:
Asparagus: This versatile vegetable is at its peak in April. Its tender spears are perfect for grilling, steaming, or adding to salads. Try pairing it with a poached egg for a simple yet elegant dish.
Try this recipe for Jérôme Galis asparagus, wild garlic, confit egg yolk, morels by Matt Abe here.
Radishes: Crisp and peppery, radishes add a delightful crunch to salads and garnishes. They can also be roasted for a milder flavour.
Spring Onions: With their mild and sweet taste, spring onions are great for adding a fresh flavour to a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups.
Spinach: Young spinach leaves are tender and perfect for salads. They can also be cooked and added to pastas, quiches, and more.
Experiment with your skills by recreating Curried Chickpea & Spinach Loaded Skins by Aviko here.
Peas: Sweet and juicy, fresh peas are a springtime favourite. They are excellent in soups, side dishes, or simply steamed with a bit of butter.
Fruits
Spring fruits start to make their appearance in April, offering a sweet and tangy addition to your meals:
Rhubarb: Known for its tart flavour, rhubarb is great for making pies, crumbles, and compotes. Pair it with strawberries for a classic combination.
Have a go at this Vanilla Baked Alaska, Spiced Rhubarb Rhubarb Consomme recipe by Marcus Eaves here.
Strawberries: Early varieties of strawberries begin to appear, bringing a burst of sweetness to your desserts and salads.
Apricots: These juicy fruits start to come into season, perfect for enjoying fresh or using in jams and desserts.
Meat & Fish
April also brings some excellent choices for meat and fish lovers:
Lamb: Spring lamb is tender and flavourful, making it ideal for roasting. Serve it with fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables for a delicious meal.
Why not try making this Lamb confit and potato gateau with roast rack of lamb by Jason Gallagher here.
Mackerel: This oily fish is fresh and perfect for grilling or smoking. Its rich flavor pairs well with citrus and fresh herbs.
Crab: Sweet and succulent, crab is a wonderful addition to salads, pasta dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own.
How to cook Mackerel
Grilling mackerel brings out its rich, oily flavour. Simply season the fish with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then grill it over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the skin is crispy and the flesh is cooked through.
Smoking mackerel adds a delicious smoky flavour. You can use a smoker or a stovetop smoking method. Season the fish with salt and your favourite spices, then smoke it for about 20-30 minutes until it's fully cooked.
Baking is a simple and healthy way to cook mackerel. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the seasoned fish on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Pan-frying mackerel gives it a crispy skin and tender flesh. Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season the fish and cook it skin-side down for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until done.
Poaching mackerel in a flavourful broth keeps it moist and tender. Bring a mixture of water, white wine, herbs, and aromatics to a simmer. Add the fish and poach gently for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
Curing mackerel with salt and sugar creates a delicious, preserved fish. Mix equal parts salt and sugar, rub it over the fish, and let it cure in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Rinse and pat dry before serving.
Whether you're grilling, smoking, baking, or trying new techniques, the bounty of spring provides endless opportunities to experiment and enjoy vibrant, fresh flavours. Embrace the season and let these ingredients inspire your culinary journey!
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