Food news
Crunch time
It's birthday time for the Bramley Apple as 2009 marks the 200th year since it was first planted in the UK. This year its bicentenary is marked with Bramley Apple Pie Week, from 4-11 October. Rounding out this celebration of English orchards, as well as apples, pears, cider and perry, the Hereford Parishes of the Marcle Ridge (www.bigapple.org.uk) hold their annual event from 10-11 October. Crisp British apples such as Cox's Orange Pippin, Royal Gala and Egremont Russet are also at their most plentiful in October. Store them in a bag in the fridge or larder instead of a fruit bowl so they retain their flavour and juiciness longer.
New brand in town
If you love top-quality food at great prices, try the new Tesco Selected For range, a collection of around 30 fruit and vegetables, chosen for their superb flavour and texture. The new range includes exotic varieties such as Shiitake mushrooms, Perfectly Ripe stonefruit and Sunstream tomatoes on the vine, and is available in store now.
Perfect pork
Award-winning Yorkshire sausage makers Debbie & Andrew's are now selling a range of gluten-free Harrogate 97 per cent pork sausages, including their new gluten-free Harrogate Chipolata and Garden Herb flavours. In selected Tesco stores, £2·59 a pack.
Great British value
Moving with the times, this year's British Food Fortnight, which runs from 19 September to 4 October, highlights the best of our credit crunch food. From buying seasonal, to cheaper cuts and growing your own, the message is about eating British to get great value. Various activities will be taking place across the country, see www.lovebritishfood.co.uk for details. And also keep an eye out for promotions in store. And for more great seasonal ideas, see the latest issue of Real Food, which is in store in October.
Q&A
How can I cook large Portobello mushrooms? asks reader panellist, Daniel Mayhew
Mitzie Wilson answers: Try baking or grilling them, brushed with oil, or topped with garlic butter, pesto or goat's cheese. They also taste great in a gratin, baked with sliced potatoes, garlic, cheese and cream. Or make a mushroom 'pizza' for breakfast by grilling and popping large Portobellos onto slices of fresh crusty bread, topping with tomato and poached egg. And look out for Tesco's great range of exotic mushrooms in store now, ideal for experimenting with in stir-fries and risottos.
Thinking of growing your own fruit and veg? See the easiest varieties to grow and when at www.eatseasonably.co.uk.