Fenland Celery
Fenland Celery is a unique white winter celery, available from October through December.
This British heritage ingredient owes its delicate sweet, nutty taste and crisp, clean texture to traditional growing methods and the rich Fenland soil. It is part of an exclusive group of quality British foods awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
This special crop is only available for 8 short weeks — enjoy it while you can!
Heritage
Fenland Celery dates back to Victorian times, when it was specially grown in the Fens for sale in London’s Christmas markets. It became a festive favourite and a highlight of the Victorian Londoner’s Christmas dinner.
A decade ago, Cambridgeshire producer G’s Fresh revived this 150-year-old crop, bringing it back to London’s prestigious New Covent Garden Market, where it quickly won a loyal following of chefs and food lovers. Today, Fenland Celery is available nationwide through selected retailers.
Just as it did 150 years ago, Fenland Celery stands out with its leafy top and pale white stalk, carefully cut to a point by hand in keeping with tradition — a true taste of British heritage.
Growing
Growing Fenland Celery is a true labour of love. Grown in wide rows with deep trenches, the crop is tended to using traditional techniques, including a process known as ‘earthing up’ which involves banking up the rich, dark soil around the celery as it grows, when the weather turns cold. ‘Earthing up’ keeps the celery warm and protected from the winter frost – blanching the sticks to a distinctive pale white hue.
What Makes Fenland Celery Special
Fenland Celery is a truly unique British crop. Its nutty, sweet flavour and famous crisp crunch come only from being grown in the rich Fenland soil.
In 2013, the European Commission recognised this heritage by awarding the crop Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status — placing it alongside Italian Parma Ham and French Champagne. Fenland Celery is the first English vegetable to receive this honour, protecting its history, tradition and provenance for future generations to enjoy.
Recipes
Be inspired by our collection of seasonal dishes featuring Fenland Celery
Where to Buy
Fenland Celery is available to buy from October through to December in Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and online through Ocado. Use our store locator to find Fenland Celery in a store near you!