Seasonal cooking: ingredients for autumn and winter
As the temperature drops and the seasons change, it’s also a great time to start switching to seasonal autumnal ingredients.
Filling your plate with the fresh fruit and vegetables that are in season right now help bring variety into your diet and eat local ingredients.
Here’s some of the best seasonal ingredients to seek out over the next few months
Filling your fruit bowl
This is the perfect time of the year to crunch down on apples. In peak season between September and February, apples are an excellent on the go snack or can be stewed, baked or included in gorgeous, seasonal pies for chilly days. Here are some recipe suggestions to try.
When January rolls around, be sure to stock up on oranges and lemons, which grow happily in the depths of winter. This also happens to be the ideal time to treat yourself to pears and grapefruit, which will be at their juiciest during the colder months.
Give yourself a great dose of sunshine and energy even when it’s grey outside, with a big, seasonal fruit salad.
Veggies that thrive in cold weather
Ever wondered why Brussels sprouts are such a staple of Christmas dinner? It’s because they happen to thrive in the colder months. Pan fry with bacon for a sensational side dish or try this Honey Glazed Sprout recipe and enjoy them while they’re in season.
If you’re looking for a fresher crunch, add some celery to your dishes. Ideal in stews, soups and stir-frys, celery is a flexible, low calorie option and is great when you’re looking for a quick snack.
Kale is also in season at the moment and is a nutritious way to get some leafy greens, whether fresh or cooked. If it’s roasted veggies you’re craving, this is also the ideal time to shop for parsnips, turnips and sweet potatoes.
Giving your recipes a vibrant twist
Make use of the citrusy flavours available during the cold seasons to give your vegetables a zingy, summery feel. Add orange and lemon to sautéed veg and don’t be shy of adding apple to your curries or roasts.
This is also the time to year to make the most of all of your most warming spices. Get out your cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and chilli to give root vegetables a kick and make sure your soups have an extra, comforting element. Try this recipe for Autumn Vegetable Chilli.
Cook seasonally and you’ll be able to enjoy the UK’s fruit and veg when it’s at its best.
What are your favourite autumn and winter recipes?
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
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