Sharp-leaved spinach has smaller, thinner leaves that have a sharp appearance. The surface of the leaves is quite smooth and has few wrinkles. It is also sweeter than round-leaved spinach, less astringent and has fewer fibres after cooking.   STORAGE To keep it fresh,...

Lebanese small cucumbers are large and cylindrical, with a dark green skin, white flesh and a crunchy texture. They are smaller than conventional cucumbers, have a smoother skin and a sweeter taste. The flesh inside is crunchy and delicious, with a bright, melon-like flavour...

Eaten fresh and uncooked, shallots are crunchy and have a hint of sharp acidity, similar to a hint of garlic. When cooked, their texture dissolves to release a sweet, caramelised flavour that melts in your mouth. When fried, shallots are nice and crispy and taste...

Starfruit is a fascinating little fruit that resembles a star when cut open. The waxy skin is tender and full of juice when ripe, but it has a sharp bite, similar to grapes. It tastes like a combination of grapefruits, oranges, apples and plums....

Although yellow watermelons are often smaller than red-fleshed varieties, they are sweeter and have a honey-like taste. When we bite into the layers, the succulent, watery and densely packed sweet liquid bursts in our mouths and runs down our lips. They are a delicious...

Choy sum is a leafy vegetable composed of long, thick stems. It is commonly used in Chinese cuisines and has small yellow blossoms that look similar to Gai Lan and are edible, with a peppery, faint mustard flavour. Choy sum is a juicy, soft and...