You will have heard the rumour that parsnips taste better after a frost. This is true: some of the starch is converted into sugar, which explains why parsnips are bland in summer and moreish in winter. As we rediscover the value of seasonal foods, we once again see the parsnip and leek as kitchen pleasures in the dark days. It pays to keep an eye on the ground conditions, as both are all but impossible to lift when the ground is frozen. The deep root comes out with a bit of fork-working, then grasp the crown, wiggle, and out she comes!
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Dawn Chorus: A Blue Plaque for Marc Bolan, holidaying in the Caribbean with Francis Ford Coppola and a history of the National Gallery in 25 picturesPlus the best of the property pages, and how the railways will save the countryside.
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Game, set, match: 12 of the world’s most beautiful tennis courtsFrom Italy to Indonesia, when it comes to hotel amenities, a picturesque tennis court will always trump a 24-hour gym. So, before you book your next holiday, take a look at our pick of the 12 best.
