Let’s substitute our fruit and veg!

Let’s substitute our fruit and veg now that the media is full of stories about iceberg lettuce shortages, the use of supplementary cabbage in KFC products, the scarcity of berries, prices of broccoli and broccolini and now even cabbage is getting prohibitively priced. Even the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese mentioned “Cabbagegate”. My first thoughts were for the farmers, they aren’t getting these fabulous prices, rather they are so short in supply. We have had endless rain and now an extended cold snap down the Eastern seaboard.

My next thought was that it is simple to substitute and buy less expensive produce. But then, not everyone is necessarily confident in doing this, so here’s my quick guide on ways to substitute your veg without breaking the bank.

Brussels Sprouts Over Cabbage
Easy Pulled Pork with Apple and Brussel Sprout Slaw. Move over KFC, this slaw is entirely made up of seasonal veg which are not in short supply – apple, fennel, brussels sprouts, green onions, lemon juice and olive oil.

Avocado & Tomato Salsa Over Salad
Avocado & Tomato Salsa or make avocado into pesto and use it with frozen peas and forget the asparagus for Linguine with Avocado Pesto, Asparagus and Peas.

Baby Gem or Cos Lettuce Hearts Over Iceberg Lettuce
Try it in Minced Beef in Lettuce Leaves or Pork Larb.

Asian Greens Over Broccoli or Broccolini
Make a Hot & Sour Soup with any veggies which are inexpensive.

Silverbeet or Cavolo Nero Over Spinach
Braise silverbeet instead or English spinach or try Stracciatella Soup with Cavolo Nero and Lardo. Rainbow chard, collard greens or beet tops are also good.

Pumpkin
Is versatile and great for bulk and warming winter meals. Try Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Cheese Crostini or replace spinach with silver beet in my Pumpkin, Leek & Spinach Frittata.

• Frozen Berries or Dried Fruit Over Fresh Berries
  In Warm Winter Fruit Salad or try mandarin with yoghurt for breakfast instead of berries.