February Market Watch: Bring on the Brassicas

At Sun Basket, our commitment to seasonal cooking requires us to adapt to the unpredictability of the marketplace. That means that sometimes you’ll find fresh produce in your box that’s different than what’s shown in the photograph of the recipe. Keep an eye out for our Market Watch page in your recipe book, where we’ll explore potential substitutions and share some more information about the seasonal vegetables on your doorstep each week. 

This winter, we want you to eat your broccoli… and Brussels sprouts, bok choy, and cabbage, too. Cold weather offers the ideal growing conditions for these hardy brassicas. When the temperatures drop, their carbohydrates convert to sugar, which not only helps keep the plants from freezing, but softens their sometimes bitter flavor, making them deliciously sweet and tender. 

Brassicas are full of fiber, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E, and offer a wide range of flavors. From sweet cauliflower to peppery turnips and grassy cabbage, they’re also packed with antioxidants, which can lower the risk of cancer and coronary heart disease. They’re rich in vitamin K, too, which regulates inflammation, helps maintain brain function, and promotes a healthy metabolism.  

Illustration by @boccaccinimeadows