Asparagus has grown in the wild in France since the time of Louis XIV. Originally only three different types were available, they were distinguished mostly by their thickness, ‘la grosse’, ‘la commune’ and ‘la sauvage’.
Cultivation become widespread in the mid-19th century, with populations often identified according to countries and towns where they were grown. Arguably the best known asparagus was cultivated at Argenteuil, situated just 14 kilometres northwest of Paris. For centuries Argenteuil was an important asparagus-growing district: at one time several thousand persons were employed in cultivating the crop.
Asparagus ‘Precoce D’Argenteuil’ or ‘Early Argenteuil‘ was listed by Vilmorin-Andrieux in 1885 as a selection from ‘Giant Dutch Purple’. It is one of three subvarieties of Argenteuil (early, mid, and late) and is highly esteemed for its thick, rose-purple spears with tender tips and an excellent flavour.
It is an excellent choice for the impatient gardener. Earlier and hardier than most asparagus varieties, the spears are usually produced from seed struck plants in the second year and it will shoot earlier in the season than other varieties.
In France, Asparagus D’Argenteuil is the traditional variety used to create the popular white asparagus by blanching the plants. White asparagus, nicknamed ‘edible ivory’ and ‘white gold’ typically sells for two to three times as much as the green-skinned variety due to the high cost of production and the short season. However, it is simply created by mounding earth over the spears as they begin to push out of the ground, thus keeping them from sunlight and the photosynthesis that would turn them green.
This noble stalk may cost a king’s ransom for much of the year but when cultivated in the garden it is affordable for even us commoners and is uncommonly delicious.
Origin: France Packaging: none Storage: in the fridge. They can be kept at least 3 days
Laurent Berrurier cultivates his vegetables from île-de-France with great success. He is the only market gardener who belong to the Académie culinaire de France. He was the recent finalist in the fourth edition île-de-France Heritage Prize of regional food innovation competition. The gardener is well-known to Parisian Chefs and is also a proud supplier for Chef Yannick Alléno. Laurent Berrurier is specialist in the production of forgotten vegetables from Ile-de-France. Cabbages, asparagus, leeks, dandelions, the market gardener supplies his entire production to the great Parisian chefs. There are over 200 varieties of vegetables in all.
We are very proud to get those natural jewels selected by Laurent and delivered to your doorstep.
Origin: France Packaging: Wooden crate or carton Storage: in the fridge if you want to increase the shelf life. You can put some fruits in the middle of them to decrease the process of germination. They can be kept at least 1 week. Usage: Tto enjoye mashed, roasted
The perfect fruit to make delicious pie ! Discover our organic and delicious apricots delivered to your door step.
Origin: France or Spain Packaging: paper tray Storage: in their original packaging in the fridge. It is better to eat them within 4 to 5 days after receiving your order. Usage: Perfect dessert, they are already sweet so you don’t need to add sugar. You can add and the whipping cream on top. You can use them to make your own jam or include them in your dessert recipes.
Rhubarb, also known as pieplant, resembles a cherry-colored celery stalk with shaded leaves so enormous they look like deep-green elephant ears. For prepping, remove and discard leaves; trim off the bottom end of the stalk, wash in cold water and if stringy, peel. Only eat the stalks; the leaves contain oxalic acid and are poisonous. Rhubarb is revered for the sour perkiness it adds to sweet and savory dishes. Complimentary flavors include citrus, berries, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and vanilla.
Origin: France Packaging: non Storage: Wrap, unwashed, in plastic and refrigerate three to seven days. Or wash and chop, place in freezer containers, and freeze up to three months. Usage: Rhubarb has a tart, tangy flavor that makes for beautiful desserts, such as crumbles, tarts and pies.
Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, protein, copper, potassium, zinc and selenium. All essential minerals to a healthy diet. Mushrooms are also a rich in dietary fiber and are low in both saturated and unsaturated fat. Dietary fiber helps stimulate digestion, relieving constipation problems.
Origin: France or Netherland Packaging: Kraft bag Storage: in the fridge up to 1 week Usage: Excellent in salad or cooked to go along with your favourite pasta or rice dish
Turnips are a popular root vegetable of European origin related to the cabbage and radish. Inside its delightful thin skin is the crisp white fleshy root. Although turnips sometimes have a yellowish flesh, the majority are bright white. Turnip leaves are slightly hairy, yet still edible, called turnip greens. You will receive golden ball or purple one depending of the availability.
Origin: France or Italy Packaging: Paper bag Storage: Refrigerate, unwashed in a plastic bag up to 10 days. Turnips should be scrubbed with a brush under running water, prior to use. There is no need to peel or cook if the skin is thin. Usage: Enjoy fresh turnips just as you would a carrot, a delightful substitute. They are quite tasty backed with grated cheese or in a cooked salad.
