Waitrose is to introduce British-grown Kohlrabi into its stores for the first time this weekend.
The crunch brassica, while widely eaten elsewhere in Europe, remains largely unknown in Britain. Waitrose's crop will be grown for the supermarket in the so-called 'brassica belt' of Lincolnshire, which is famous for its Brussels sprout production.
Rising in popularity on restaurant menus in central Europe, the USA and Asia, the versatile vegetable can be eaten raw in coleslaw in the summer months and roasted or boiled in winter dishes.
The variety being introduced into Waitrose is sweeter in flavour and less woody in texture, reflecting the British palate.
Matthew King, vegetable buyer at Waitrose, says, "This quirky vegetable looks like it has come down in the recent meteor shower and landed on our shelves. At first glance it may bemuse shoppers but its universal appeal will be enjoyed by adults and kids alike."
Kohlrabi is launching in selected Waitrose shops from this weekend in white and red varieties and will be sold for £1.20 each. The vegetable joins other vegetables launching in Waitrose that are traditionally from Europe but being grown in Britain for the supermarket for the first time including Patti Pan squash and Romano beans.
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine by Ellen Lunney
