Instagram @4hands food studio
Based in Rathaspick, Co Westmeath chefs Rose Greene and Margaux Dejardin of 4Hands produce a range of naturally fermented products including kimchi, sauerkraut, tonics, and kombucha. They use sprouting to amplify flavour and increase the nutrition of whole foods; their sprouted pea hummus is a cult favourite. Order through Neighbourfood markets in Tullamore, Mullingar and Ballymahon for click and collect or find their products at Lowe & Co in Athlone and stockists nationwide.
2 Ballymore Organics
ballymoreorganics.ie
Irish stoneground flour and porridge oats grown and milled by James Kelly in Ballymore Eustace are available for nationwide delivery direct to your door. If you didn’t start baking your own bread in the last lockdown, now’s your chance.
Christmas wishes for gardeners Allan Jenkins
It’s 20 December, the day before the shortest day, when the nights are long and the sun is low and much gardening is largely redundant. Your last chance to pop to the vegetable plot to pick a few winter leaves or brassicas, cavolo nero or brussels sprouts – though the tops are superior for eating in my opinion – for Christmas dinner. Perhaps even unearth a few parsnips for roasting, if they are to your taste.
Nearly past time to get in a few late requests for presents. I will often ask the kids or other family for seed packets. As always, I also have my eye on the Brown Envelope Seeds gift boxes, perhaps Peas on Earth, the Purple Veg, maybe even the Brexit Box. But you will have to hurry, unless like me you also have a birthday soon.