Catford Broadway Market - delicious food and super treats!

I've recently been posting about the goings on in the Nation of Catford, where I happen to live. It has long been a scruffy corner of London whose distance from any Underground line has led to it being perceived as undesirable.

That is all beginning to change. Regeneration is bringing much needed investment to the fabric of the community. Local initiatives are also changing the face of the community. One of these is by shaking up the Catford Broadway Market.

One trader who deserves to do well is Colonel Tom's Gumbo. Tom Warden, its founder, learnt how to make traditional southern Gumbo, which he serves with either rice or homemade cornbread. 

His Gumbo packs a mighty flavour punch, which I found intense and satisfying. Tom told me that his Gumbo intends to be rich, with a chilli kick in the finish. That afterglow is very pleasing indeed, and will be even more so as the temperature drops and we head into Winter. 

Pastaficio Mansi, of Ladywell, Lewisham, were in attendance, selling their artisanal handmade pastas. 

One of the recent Catford Broadway Supperclub hosts, I can attest to the loveliness of their delicate raviolis, generously filled with butternut squash. 

Another Supperclub host, Capo Caccia, are bringing their wares to Catford Broadway Market.

Pane Carasau, Mustela, Lardo, organic Pecorino, all great quality products from small producers in Sardinia.

There are lots of tempting baked goods for Catfordites and visitors to sample. 

I couldn't resist Sweetroot's take on baking, incorporating vegetables into their cakes, muffins and mini loaves. 

The sugar free Parsnip and Banana mini loaf was moist and delicious. It was hard to believe it doesn't have any sugar added, but clearly the parsnips and banana have given up their sweetness in a delectable and satisfying way. I may even have got one of my five-a-day and I did so by eating cake!

One very welcome trader is Elvira's Pantry, an artisanal Italian bakery selling Gluten, Yeast and Dairy free products. A great way for people with dietary requirements and food intolerances issues to enjoy a little bit of something sweet. 
 

The market isn't all about food, there are some fun and interesting stalls for other interests. This jewellery stall had some cool costume jewellery pieces for that urban bling look!
 

Amanda of local shop "Gorgeous Gifts and Accessories" has brought her special homemade natural skin care products to Catford Broadway. 

Her products smell divine and are made of herb and fruit extracts. A lovely treat for yourself or a gift for someone, perhaps?

Jozeen, another Catford local, runs "Light and Bubbly", making small batches of handmade candles, soaps and bath treats.

But back to the food!

Uli's jams, chutneys, scones and macarons are a popular and tempting stall.

The macarons stood out for me. The pistachio macaron was delicious and the rose was redolent with fragrance. A complete bargain.

 
 Jouvert are dishing up their West Indian delights.

Two Hungry Bees have brought a little bit of Saigon to Catford.

Their steamed buns are filled with sour, sweet, tangy spicy salad and meat.  

Or you could have one of their spring roll and salad boxes. 

The most recent Supperclub hosts - in the new Catford Canteen pop up restaurant, In A Pikkle are the final foodie traders at the Broadway market. Their food is Bajan, but made with an emphasis on keeping it healthy and light.

So in the middle of your Sunday, when trying to get the weekly shop done or popping out for Sunday lunch, why not come to Catford Broadway's Monthly Market? It's on the first Sunday of the month, and when the rebuilding works are finished, it is going to be a very pleasant little environment to stroll around and browse. 

Come and support your local market, people of the Nation of Catford!