Keeping Traditional Flavours Alive

At S Thorogood and Sons we have always believed that the future of British farming is strengthened by its past. Heritage crops are a powerful reminder of the knowledge, care and resilience that have shaped our farming landscape for generations. They are varieties that have stood the test of time, each with a character and story that connects growers, cooks and communities to the land.

Today many chefs and buyers are rediscovering these crops because they bring something that modern varieties often cannot match. They offer depth of flavour, a sense of place and a link to the craft of traditional British farming. As wholesalers with our roots firmly in the fields of Essex we are proud to support growers who continue to nurture these special crops.

What Makes a Crop a Heritage Crop

Heritage crops are older varieties grown long before commercial breeding focused on storage life, uniformity or transport. These historic vegetables remain valued for their flavour, their resilience and their strong relationship with British soils and seasons.

Many heritage varieties are naturally well suited to winter growing. They stand proud in cold weather, develop richer flavour in frost and hold their quality when other crops struggle. This makes them a vital part of supporting a seasonal British supply chain.

Crops Worth Celebrating

January King Cabbage

With its mottled purple and green leaves and sweet winter flavour, January King remains one of the most distinctive brassicas on the farm. As the cold settles in the sugars concentrate, creating a tender cabbage that chefs love for roasting, braising or shredding into salads.

Molyneux Variegated Kale

These beautifully coloured leafy greens are favourite among chefs who want flavour as well as visual impact. It thrives in winter weather, bringing a fresh earthy taste and a reminder that British greens are at their best when the days are at their shortest.

Heritage Squashes

Heirloom style squashes are enjoying a well deserved return, grown for their natural sweetness, interesting shapes and remarkable cooking performance. From dense textured flesh to rich nutty undertones, they provide warmth and depth in every winter kitchen.

Old Variety Carrots and Parsnips

Many traditional roots maintain a superior balance of sweetness and earthiness. These varieties grow slowly and steadily which leads to flavour that modern uniform roots often lack.

Why Heritage Crops Matter Today

Better Flavour

Frost kissed brassicas, slow grown roots and nutrient rich soils create remarkable produce. Heritage crops are grown with taste at their heart.

Support for British Farmers

By choosing heritage varieties, buyers help protect seed diversity and keep traditional farming skills alive. These crops rely on the experience and complete dedication of growers who understand their particular needs.

A Stronger Seasonal Supply Chain

Winter heritage crops offer valuable continuity for kitchens that want to cook British throughout the year. They provide reliable produce at a time when imported options often take centre stage.

How You Can Celebrate Heritage Crops

These crops shine when treated simply.

Slow roast January King wedges with butter and thyme.

Fold variegated kale into stews or sauté with garlic.

Roast heritage squashes to bring out caramel notes.

Use traditional roots in purees, roasts or classic soups that showcase their natural sweetness.

When you choose heritage varieties they bring stories, seasonal richness and depth to their menus. This connection back to the field is what makes them so special.

Standing Up for British Field Traditions

At S Thorogood and Sons we take great pride in working with growers who continue to champion older varieties. Their work protects biodiversity, supports soil resilience and strengthens our national food culture. We remain committed to supplying produce that reflects true British character and the farming traditions that continue to shape us.

Heritage crops are more than vegetables. They are living links to the land that raised us and a celebration of the growers who keep our farming story alive.