To Borough Market–as Sam Pepys might say–Saturday morning in search of the perfect tomato.
They grow them on the Isle of Wight–there’s a micro climate there.
I plan to make Ma’s Gazpacho for the London launch of the cookbook–can’t have too many launches!
The Saturday farmers’ market in Southwark by the Thames, in the shadow of the Cathedral’s tower–
used to be great. Growers and producers arriving from all over to sell their stuff to enthusiastic foodies. A meeting place of like minds with complementary needs.
No more–sadly.
There are still a few stalls selling produce from out of town but it is now firmly on the tourist trail–nicely situated between the Tower of London and the South Bank. More a fun fair of food–and nothing wrong with that–with stall after stall selling healthy fast food–
to eat mainly on the hoof–while checking out what else is on offer.
Quest stalled and this cook fast realising how spoiled he is by the French markets he’s accustomed to–boo-hoo…
Back to Waterloo (where we are staying) to think again–in search of inspiration now.
I suddenly remember a Sunday market in Islington and google it–of course.
There it is–still going– but “moved to Chapel Market–every Sunday 8am to 2pm.”
Sometimes you want to kiss the Internet!
Whoopee and off we go this morning.
“Freshly picked Isle of Wight Tomatoes” says the sign! Quest over.
And sold by the grower, a delightful fresh-faced young man from…Poland! (Not famed, as far as I know, for its tomato crop).
He knew his tomatoes though–they’re tasty.
Delighted, relieved, ladened down (5 Kilos)–I go to two more stalls and find the remaining ingredients.
Search over–now to make it.
Robin Ellis 