Redarling sprouts

Redarling sprouts are purple on the stalk and turn red once cooked

Waitrose has launched a new red sprout ahead of the festive season developed by Lincolnshire veg grower Staples.

Named Redarling, the new sprout is a hybrid of old red sprout varieties and newer green ones, with a a mild and slightly sweeter flavour than both, Waitrose said.

Retailing for £1.40 per pack, the sprouts are purple on the stalk and turn red once cooked. They will be available in Waitrose branches nationwide from this week.

Waitrose sprout buyer Paul Bidwell: “The sprout divides opinion in the taste stakes. However, to ensure your red sprouts taste as good as they look, don’t overcook them.

“Simply immerse them in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes and serve al dente. Not just for Christmas, they’re great in stir fries, grated in winter salads or are a novel addition to a quiche.”

The Redarling sprouts are high in fibre and are a good source of Vitamin K and folic acid. During the season Waitrose said it will sell approximately 15 varieties to suit all tastes.