I am a big believer in using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. It is something that I try to do at home and is also something I look for when I am eating out at a restaurant. This is why I like to promote using local Lancashire ingredients.
Why Use Local Lancashire Ingredients?
Not only does buying local ingredients support local businesses, but the quality of the produce is also so much better than buying processed and manufactured alternatives. The meats are fresher and the fruit and vegetables are in season and taste so much better.
My Location
I am lucky in terms of the location where I live. I live in a semi-rural village in Lancashire, just across from the coastal towns of Fleetwood and Morecambe and at a mid-point between Blackpool and Lancaster. This means my village is surrounded on one side by the sea and on the other side by farmland. Both are fantastic sources of delicious local Lancashire ingredients.
Local Lancashire Ingredients- Fish
The coastal location means there is a fresh supply of fish and seafood available. I usually shop at a seafood shop on the docks at Fleetwood. There is also a small fish shop in my village.
Local Farm Produce
Two of the best cheese manufacturers in the company are located within driving distance of my home; Dewlay and Butler’s. They both produce delicious ranges of cheese from their farm factories. These are sold directly from their own shops, local farm shops and many other retailers locally. My personal favourite is Lancashire crumbly.
Pork, beef, chicken and lamb are all available from local sources and the local butchers sell these fresh meats There is also one of the biggest game hatcheries in the country, Hi-Fly, just one mile from my house and there are even ostrich farms in the surrounding area.
Markets Selling Local Lancashire Ingredients
The area in which I live is fantastic for anyone who enjoys farmers markets as these are regular farmer’s markets in many locations in the local area. Not only are these a good place to buy the produce that is raised and grown locally, but it is also a great place to sample foods created using locally sourced produce.
In addition to the meats, cheese, and vegetables, you can also buy pies to chutneys. Similarly, there are amazing farm shops in Lancashire and there are events that cater to food lovers throughout the year.