The bearded wonder: Monk’s Beard is back - just £2.98/bunch

No, we haven’t completely forgotten to mow our lawns all year, what you see above isn’t a pile of untended grass, but rather a most delicious and unusual treat from Italy. Monk’s Beard, or Barba dei Frati in Italian, is also known as Agretti. It gets its name from the Cappuccino Monks who were well known for growing it.

Whatever you want to call it, the taste is incredible. Rich mineral notes, with an edge of tartness and wonderfully refreshing, crunchy texture make it well worth ordering this week.

How best to enjoy it? Remove the pink root, then blanch quickly, and finish in a pan with garlic and anchovies. Its lively flavour works well with fish, in salads or with eggs.

Why not try Stevie Parle’s recipe for Brill with anchovy sauce and Monk’s Beard -
click here

BUY NOW – just £2.98/200g