This year’s Brussels sprouts harvest is one for the books, with farmers forecasting a bumper crop that’s 25% bigger than usual.
Thanks to good growing conditions, new varieties, and a touch of sea air, the festive favorite is making a grand entrance onto Christmas dinner tables across the UK.
The vegetable wholesaler TH Clements, which supplies Tesco, has confirmed that the average sprout size this season is 30mm in diameter, compared to 24mm last year.
This year’s crop follows a year of poor growing and harvesting conditions, making the current crop a pleasant surprise for chefs and consumers.
Simon Tenwick, Tesco’s buying manager, is confident that sprout lovers will be thrilled with the quality. “The festive crop is among the best we’ve had in recent years,” he said.
The larger sprouts will undoubtedly be a hit with those tasked with peeling them, but Brussels sprouts remain a divisive vegetable. For those who may struggle to get through a plate of sprouts, chefs are suggesting creative ways to reinvent the vegetable.
For example, celebrity chef Nigel Slater has come up with a miso, sushi rice, and pickled ginger recipe, designed to elevate the humble sprout.
A bumper crop of Brussels sprouts ensures a sprout-filled Christmas season for all.Behind the size increase lies a concerted effort to improve crop resilience. Tesco has been working with suppliers to develop hardier varieties that can better withstand the UK’s unpredictable climate.
After record rainfall delayed planting in 2023, there were concerns about shortages of key crops like potatoes and vegetables.
However, this year’s growing conditions have turned the tables, with the right balance of warmth, sunshine, and rainfall leading to a thriving crop.
Tesco estimates it will sell 1.5 million kilograms of sprouts in the two weeks before Christmas, which is equivalent to the weight of 285 London buses.
This festive staple, with its 30mm diameter, will certainly make an impression.