Beans and mangoes

The scribbled sign on the box at the Bull Ring open market today said: "Italian broad beans."

The mottled colouring of the shells suggested they were borlotti beans. I handed over a quid for a couple of pounds, podded one when I got home and, sure enough, that's what they are.

They'll be fabulous with roast beef tomorrow and - at the price - an enormous bargain.

Just like the box of five honey mangoes I bought at the market for £3.50. Honey mangoes are incomparable - vivid orange, juicy, fragrant, slightly sharp and very sweet. Forget the sort you find at supermarkets - these are the business.

The more I use the market, the more wonders I discover. It's a Brummie treasure.