We are coming into the new year strong with great offerings of summer fruits available at your local fruit and veg shop this season. Due to labour shortages, some prices for fruit and veg on average will be slightly higher, but the quality is fantastic this year. Some areas in South Australia and New South Wales have seen heavy rain impacting production on some lines, as well as damaging weather in Queensland which may impact the mango season.
What’s good now?
Veggies that are coming through in good supply at the moment include potatoes in several varieties, such as desiree, pontiac, brushed, kipfler and dutch cream. Veggies that go great with dinner that are in good supply are eggplants, asparagus, capsicum, with new season carrots and cucumbers. Tomatoes are available but are priced higher due to weather conditions in some production areas. For something a little bit different, try our Loaded Carrot Fries with Chilli Cheese Beef with this season’s carrots.
Summer fruits are doing well after Christmas, with Tasmanian and South Australian Cherries hitting the shelves in great supply. Cherries can store for up to a week in the fridge, so don’t be too apprehensive if buying a larger amount. Quality tends to be better when purchasing by the box instead of smaller punnets or loose cherries.
Cavendish Bananas are in a healthy supply coming from Queensland. This variety of bananas is a delicious, sweet snack and great to have on the go.
Figs are also in good supply, with new-season produce becoming available. Figs make a great addition to salads, grazing boards, or desserts. Try this Dark Chocolate Fig Tart for a delectable treat.
Mangoes are still going well, particularly this season’s Kensington Prides. Some varieties out of Queensland are priced slightly higher due to their high quality currently than varieties grown in the Northern Territory.
Other stone fruit varieties such as Peaches, Nectarines and Apricots are all going strong, making a great addition to your daily fruit intake. They’re also great with our Peach and Thyme Shortcakes for your weekend baking.
Lychees are also currently available but are slightly higher in price at the moment.
New-season Grapes from Queensland are now available, with green, red and black-skinned varieties in great supply.
Australian berries such as Blueberries, Blackberries and Raspberries are still in good supply, as well as South Australian Strawberries. Fresh berries make great additions to smoothies, desserts, or by themselves as a great healthy snack.
