British leek farmers have launched a campaign to encourage Britain’s catering industry to celebrate St David’s Day (1st March 2016) by serving that most Welsh of vegetables, the leek.
The Leek Growers Association wants eating leeks to be as firmly associated with Wales’s national day as eating haggis is with Burns Night or eating Turkey on Thanksgiving.
British Leek Growers’ Association Chairman, Tim Casey comments: “We are hoping that chefs, caterers, restauranteurs and food bloggers will be showing their support for seasonal British produce this St David’s Day by showcasing the leek. One of the few home grown British vegetables to be in-season at this time of year, fresh leeks are readily available and have a subtle, yet distinctive flavour. It would be great to see leeks taking centre stage on menus across the UK this 1st March, with food professionals celebrating this delicious, most British of foods and supporting British farming too.”
The lovely mild, sweet, onion-like flavour and smooth texture of the British leek makes it a welcome addition to stacks of recipes – especially when complementing other famous Welsh ingredients such as succulent lamb or creamy Caerphilly cheese. In addition to their delicious taste leeks have a huge range of natural health benefits. As well as being full of vitamins and minerals, they have antiseptic properties, the ability to reduce blood pressure and stabilise blood sugar levels and can also help protect against various types of cancer.
Approximately 2,000 ha of leeks are grown in the UK producing 40-50,000 tonnes during the leek season. The majority of leeks are grown in East Anglia, the East Midlands, Wales and Scotland.
For more fascinating facts on British Leeks and a range of recipes and photography visit www.britishleeks.co.uk
