Not really a recipe -

[tim]

- but does affect the way we eat.

While struggling to prise the soil from the latest Farmers' Market potatoes tonight & knowing that, even when as soil free as I can get them, they would still not be suitable for boiling as is - & barely for baking - it seemed that the pre-washed s/market ones, which mostly need no peeling, are better value. And that's not taking into account the amount of soil you've paid for!!

Trouble is, I'm a sucker for supporting the smaller farmers.

[tim]

[Mrs Ava]

I find my mind thinks that when I am not looking.  When I buy caulis from the local farm shop, you buy per weight and they do seem to leave all the leaves on them, if removed, I wonder how much the curds would cost!  I don't mind toooo much as I love the cauli greens, but am alone in that passion.  However, I do remember reading that as soon as the veggies have been cleaned up they begin to break down, so left as 'rustic' as possible, I guess they last a tad longer?

[NattyEm]

tbh I think I'd still rather pay more for soil than less for pesticides and other cosmetic treatments, and some veg do keep better with the soil on even.  More time scrubbing with a stiff brush yes.  Its not just about support for the local small farms, its about not putting so many chemicals into your body and the earth...but I know you know that already ;D

[tim]

Funny that you should mention that!!

This is NOT a plug - probably sold out, anyway.

http://www.sustainability.origincreative.com/insight/store-item.asp?id=249

[NattyEm]

Do you have that book? Is it any good?

[tim]

We naturally have all his 17 books - but, obviously, being a sprog, we don't plug them!! They all have a 'from the heart ' message.

Nothing to do with recipes, or selling, but if you're 'that way inclined', look at www.johnelkington.com. Given time. you would probably learn as much on the net - there is so much available there??

[NattyEm]

ah its a sprog!

Of course I don't think I'd actually buy it when like you say information on the net is free!