Saturday breakfast and sunday market haul
With amazing autumn days all I want to do is eat at cafe’s and lie in parks.
After rising well after the Saturday morning sun, we ventured through the Valley traffic to a busy and understated cafe in New Farm. I first visited Pablo on recommendation from a friend and fell in love a little. Everything about the place says ‘normal’ but as soon as you read the menu what’s below the surface creeps up to envelope you. Pablo is serious but not stuffy, gentle but not dismissive, clever but not arrogant, the staff genuine and warm. The menu is inspired with a strong influence from the UK (but without the daggy bits). Smashed peas with zucchini and mint were fresh, bright and perfect with spicy chorizo and lemon ricotta. Brioche french toast with baked figs, golden syrup and turkish delight ice-cream wasn’t overly sweet or heavy. Along with the warm morning sun, free wifi and perfect saturday breakfast are crazy small town prices (I’m saying cheap).
Sunday’s sun was chasing our tails as we were off to Northy Street for our Sunday haul. I have my morning shop routine down to a fine art. I know who has the best apples, bananas, cheapest broccoli and biggest bunches of herbs. I do my usual rounds and then a quick scope for any specials. There is nothing quite like the silent early morning shoppers, energised by the fresh air and colours.
Today’s haul had the usual suspects: crunchy apples, biodynamic bananas, rich tomatoes, crisp silver beet, massive bunches of dill, creamy potatoes, peppery rocket and dense cucumbers. As the sun peaked through the trees I found perfect persimmons, pink pomegranates, plush plums and purple carrots. I’ve never loved autumn so much!
Now for ideas. What should I cook this week? I’ve never cooked with persimmons so would love some tips. First up is Sunday dinner of purple carrot and parsnip soup.
Pavlova is never my favourite; I can all too vividly imagine what it’s doing to my precious teeth, but when it’s topped with mooshed persimmon there’s a wonderful yin:yang sweet/tart sensation of balance. That’s my suggestion