From Field to Table: The Vibrant Harvest of Sopley Farm

Summer is truly an exciting time for British produce and one of our great suppliers, Sopley Farm, is the king of amazing local fruit and veg. Nestled on the outskirts of Christchurch, on the edge of the New Forest, Sopley Farm is only moments away from our Beaulieu store and deli. With a diverse range of nearly 20 fruits and vegetables, Sopley Farm takes pride in offering "as fresh as it gets" produce to Hampshire and Dorset.

Local Produce In The New Forest

Sopley Farm is a treasure trove of nature's bounty, growing an impressive variety of fruits and vegetables. From the tangy sweetness of strawberries and raspberries to the earthy goodness of asparagus and broad beans, their produce selection caters to every taste bud. The farm also boasts a harvest of plums, gooseberries, rhubarb, and more, ensuring a vibrant tapestry of flavours for every seasonal palate. If you want to see the great range of produce that Sopley Farm has to offer, come visit Bellord & Brown in Beaulieu where we will always be stocking the most incredible seasonal goods.

At Sopley Farm, quality and freshness are at the heart of their operation. By selecting varieties for their flavour rather than shelf life, they deliver produce that truly tantalizes the taste buds. Their commitment to providing "as fresh as it gets" produce ensures that everyone can enjoy the full depth of flavour and nutritional benefits that come with freshly harvested fruits and vegetables.

Why Should You Eat Seasonal Produce?

Eating seasonal produce from Sopley Farm comes with a host of benefits. Firstly, seasonal fruits and vegetables are at their peak flavour, ensuring a more enjoyable eating experience. Additionally, seasonal produce is often more nutrient-dense, as it is allowed to ripen naturally on the plant. Supporting local and seasonal farming also promotes a sustainable and eco-friendly food system, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. By choosing seasonal produce, consumers can connect with the rhythms of nature and savour the unique flavours each season brings. At Bellord & Brown, it has always been our commitment to supply local and seasonal produce. Working with great suppliers like Sopley Farm means we can bring farm-fresh straight to your doorsteps in Beaulieu.

Cooking With Seasonal Produce

To celebrate the flavours of summer, we have created a delightful Summer Garden Salad using some of Sopley Farm's seasonal produce and other fruit and vegetables you can find in our store:

Ingredients:

• New Forest strawberries

• Ripe raspberries

• Crisp lettuce or mixed salad greens

• Tender asparagus spears

• Sliced courgette

• Handful of broad beans (removed from pods)

• A handful of fresh mint leaves

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by blanching the asparagus spears and broad beans in boiling water for a few minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, sliced courgette, blanched asparagus, and broad beans.

3. Add the freshly picked strawberries and raspberries to the mix, gently tossing to combine.

4. Tear the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the salad.

5. Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, adjusting the amounts to your taste preference.

6. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavours.

7. Toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

8. Serve the Summer Garden Salad as a refreshing side dish or add grilled chicken or halloumi for a complete meal.

Local Deli and Store in the New Forest

Sopley Farm is a true gem in Christchurch, offering an abundance of fresh and flavoursome produce to the Hampshire and Dorset regions. Their commitment to quality, freshness, and seasonal offerings sets them apart. By embracing seasonal produce, we not only enjoy superior flavour and nutrition but also support a sustainable and local food system. So, head over to our Beaulieu store and cafe this summer and savour the vibrant flavours of their freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. And don't forget to try our Summer Garden Salad recipe, showcasing the best of Sopley Farm's seasonal produce. Indulge in the goodness of the New Forest, one bite at a time!

Come see the Beaulieu store and deli for yourself, visit us today.  

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