Tip: Time to Harvest Your Parsnips for Christmas Dinner (and Other Winter Veg)
As December rolls around, we’re all starting to feel that festive buzz in the air – and no, it’s not just the mulled wine or the Christmas lights twinkling on the tree! It’s the anticipation of Christmas dinner, and what better way to make your festive feast even more special than by harvesting your own winter vegetables?
Why Wait for Christmas?
Winter veg like parsnips, carrots, kale, and sprouts thrive in the colder months, getting sweeter and more flavourful after a few frosty nights. It’s almost like nature’s own little Christmas present to you. While your garden may seem quiet in winter, the colder weather actually enhances the flavours of many root vegetables, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas dinner spread.
Parsnips: The Festive Hero
Parsnips are one of the true Christmas heroes, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving up your own homegrown parsnips on the big day. These creamy, slightly sweet roots pair perfectly with roast turkey, pigs in blankets, and of course, that decadent gravy. If you’ve planted parsnips earlier in the year, now’s the time to harvest them for the perfect festive side dish. Simply pull them up from the soil when the roots have reached a decent size, usually after a good frost has passed. Frost is actually your friend when it comes to parsnips. The cold causes the starches in the root to convert to sugar, making them sweeter and more tender. So, don’t rush to dig them up before winter; let them hang on a little longer for that extra sweetness.
Tip! Harvest them by gently loosening the soil with a fork before pulling them up carefully – you don’t want to snap them!
Carrots: A Sweet Surprise
Carrots aren’t just for the Easter bunny! These colourful veggies are another winter favourite that can be harvested as the weather turns colder. Like parsnips, carrots also sweeten after a frost, so if you’ve planted them late in the season, now’s the perfect time to pull them up for your Christmas dinner. Whether you’re roasting them with honey, glazing them with butter, or just serving them simply, homegrown carrots will always taste better than shop-bought ones. So, dig a few up for a festive treat that’s sure to be a hit.
Kale and Other Greens: Winter Wonders
If you’ve grown kale or other hardy greens like sprout tops or winter spinach, they’ll be ready for harvest throughout the winter months. These greens are perfect for adding to your Christmas dinner as a nutritious and vibrant side. Whether you sauté them with garlic, toss them into a winter salad, or simply steam them with a bit of butter, these leafy greens will provide a burst of colour and flavour on your table.
Brussels Sprouts: A Christmas Classic
Ah, Brussels sprouts. The veggie that divides families at Christmas dinner tables across the UK. Some love them, some… not so much. But whether you’re a sprout lover or a sprout skeptic, there’s no denying they’re a quintessential part of the Christmas meal. If you’ve been growing them in your garden, now’s the time to harvest them! Pick them from the stalks when they’re firm, bright green, and about the size of a walnut. Then, cook them up with a little butter, bacon, or chestnuts for a festive twist.
Why Harvesting in Winter Feels So Right
There’s something magical about harvesting your own winter vegetables for Christmas dinner. Maybe it’s the joy of knowing that you’ve nurtured something from seed to plate. Or perhaps it’s the connection to the earth that makes the Christmas dinner table feel even more special. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the extra sense of satisfaction when you serve up homegrown produce alongside your turkey and stuffing.
Tips for a Successful Winter Harvest
- Timing is key: Winter veg like parsnips and carrots often taste best after the first frost, so don’t rush to harvest too early. Wait until the ground has thawed slightly to make it easier to dig them up.
- Use the right tools: A garden fork or spade will help loosen the soil around root vegetables like parsnips and carrots, making the harvest process easier.
- Keep them cool: After harvesting, store your winter vegetables in a cool, dry place. Parsnips, for example, will last for weeks in a cool shed or garage. Just make sure to check them regularly for any signs of rot.
So, as you start planning your Christmas dinner this December, don’t forget to include the bounty of your winter garden. From sweet parsnips to vibrant greens, your homegrown veggies will add that personal touch to your festive feast. Feel free to stop by the garden centre for more tips and personal advice – we’re here to help make your Christmas meal extra special!