Hello Shelley, you have been busy.
The variable decomposition of manure does cause some problems. I know exactly what you mean by cakes of wet straw, really these need some breaking up while spreading. I often put them on paths or keep them on one side to decompose further.
It sounds like you have a good amount of well decomposed material on your beds and I think most veg including broad beans will be ok planted in that, but for sowing carrot and parsnip I would spread some fine compost on top, at least 3cm.
Your results this year will be good but probably not the best, year one is about building fertility and clearing weeds, as well as growing veg. Use a trowel to keep removing shoots of couch grass, aim to have beds and paths clear of it by the end of the year.
Enjoy the ride.
