Sometimes my husband is a little more adventurous when it comes to shopping. Me, if I am hungry, I buy more of the same food but not necessarily anything different.  So I was pleasantly surprised when he brought home some physalis. Yes, physalis, otherwise known as cape gooseberry. I did not think I had ever seen these plants before but I am sure I must have. Also the smell, the smell, takes me back to walking home from school – maybe there is a Chinese Lantern plant growing in North East London.  It is such a powerful and rather pleasant memory that this whole week I have opening the fridge just to smell then and take a trip back in time. The taste is something else, they are, as described, sweet and sharp. I think it is an acquired taste but I am certainly warming to them.

Physalis peruviana – a small round fruit wrapped in a papery case that resembles a Chinese lantern. The fruit is full is soft small edible seeds and is indigenous to Colombia, Chile, Ecuador and Peru.

Apparently these can used to decorate dishes, in fruit salad and can be used to make jam. This of course makes me very excited about new culinary possibilities!