Autumn is hands down my favourite season. The days start to become shorter and the nights are getting cooler, the leaves on the trees turn a vibrant red and gold before falling to the ground. There’s a huge Maple Tree on my property that’s just glorious as it changes colour and gives in to the season.
It’s also a season of harvest, with so many delicious fruits and vegetables ripening. If you’re choosing to eat seasonally you’re eating what’s ripe right now. These foods are currently at their best, they’re nutritionally dense and there is so much in abundance at the moment that most people can source locally, reducing your food miles too and supporting local farmers too.
Here’s a snippet of what’s in season:
Apples – Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, crunchy apples in Australia. This fruit is not only tasty but also rich in nutrients like fibre and vitamin C. Apples come in so many varieties, from the tart Granny Smith to the sweet Pink Lady, so there is a type to suit every palate. My favourite are the Jazz Apple a crisp, tangy and sweet bite. Perfect for tarts, stews and your lunchbox!
Pumpkin – Pumpkins are another Autumn staple in Australia. Rich in vitamins A and C, and their sweet, nutty flavour is perfect for making soups, stews, roasted vegetables but also works wonders in sweet dishes like Pumpkin Pie, scones and tarts.
Sweet Potatoes – Packed with vitamins A and C , Sweet Potatoes are another good source of fibre. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted sweet potato wedges to sweet potato mash or pies. As vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin, be sure to enjoy them with sour cream or butter so that you’re getting as much nutrition as possible.
Brussels Sprouts – A polarising member of the cabbage family, they are high in fiber and vitamins C and K and are also a good source of folate. I don’t know about you but I love brussels sprout. They can be roasted, boiled, or sautéed and are most delicious when paired with bacon androasted nuts.
Pears – Sweet and juicy, pears are an excellent source of fibre and vitamin C. Enjoy your pears fresh or in baking, such as in a pear tart or pie.
Figs – My Mum has a fig tree and every Autumn I’m always begging her for fresh figs. They can be eaten fresh or dried and are rich in vitamins A and K and are also a good source of fibrr. Figs are a versatile fruit that can be used in salads, desserts, or simple fresh and paired with cheese and wine.
Another way to see what’s in season is to check out your local Farmers Market. Usually they’ll have only local growers available and selling what they’ve harvested, which is always seasonal!! The food is fresh, delicious and so good for you that you’ll end up doing all of your fresh food shopping there. My local one, Noosa Farmers Market, is the best excuse for a day out.
