As summer draws to a close, many of us are left wondering what delicious fruits and vegetables are still ripe for the picking in September. The good news is that there’s still plenty to enjoy, from sweet and juicy fruits to crisp and crunchy veggies. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what’s in season in September, and provide you with some tasty tips on how to make the most of the season’s best produce.
Fruits in Season in September
September is a great time of year for fruit lovers, with many popular varieties still in season. Here are some of the top fruits to look out for:
Apples
Did you know? Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world, with over 7,500 varieties grown globally. In September, many apple varieties are at their peak ripeness, including popular choices like Gala, Fuji, and Honeycrisp.
Pears
Pears are another staple fruit of the fall season, with many varieties available in September. From sweet and buttery Bartlett pears to crisp and refreshing Anjou pears, there’s a pear to suit every taste.
Grapes
Whether you prefer sweet and juicy table grapes or tart and tangy wine grapes, September is a great time to indulge in this seasonal favorite.
Figs
Fun fact: Figs are actually a type of fruit known as a “false fruit” or “accessory fruit”, because they’re actually an inside-out flower receptacle! In September, fresh figs are at their peak ripeness, perfect for snacking or adding to sweet and savory dishes.
Vegetables in Season in September
From hearty roots to crunchy greens, there are plenty of delicious vegetables in season in September. Here are some of the top picks:
Carrots
Nutrition tip: Carrots are packed with vitamin A, an essential nutrient for healthy vision and immune function. In September, fresh carrots are at their sweetest and crunchiest, perfect for snacking or adding to soups and stews.
Beets
Whether you prefer sweet and earthy golden beets or peppery and bold red beets, September is a great time to get your beet fix.
Broccoli
Health benefit: Broccoli is a cruciferous superstar, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help fight cancer and other diseases. In September, fresh broccoli is at its peak, perfect for steaming, roasting, or sautéing.
Brussels Sprouts
These tiny, tasty sprouts are a fall favorite, and for good reason! In September, they’re sweet and tender, perfect for roasting or sautéing with garlic and olive oil.
Other Seasonal Ingredients in September
In addition to fruits and vegetables, there are many other seasonal ingredients to look out for in September. Here are a few of our favorites:
Honey
Fun fact: Honey is the only food that bees make that humans eat! In September, beekeepers are busy harvesting honey from their hives, resulting in a bounty of delicious, raw honey perfect for sweetening everything from tea to baked goods.
Nuts
From crunchy pecans to rich and buttery walnuts, September is a great time to stock up on nuts for snacking, baking, or adding to savory dishes.
Seasonal Recipes to Try in September
Now that you know what’s in season in September, it’s time to get cooking! Here are a few of our favorite seasonal recipes to try:
Apple and Pear Crisp
This sweet and satisfying dessert is the perfect way to enjoy the season’s best apples and pears. Simply peel, core, and slice your favorite varieties, then mix with sugar, flour, and spices before topping with a crunchy oat and butter crumble.
Roasted Beet Salad
This vibrant and flavorful salad is a great way to showcase the season’s best beets. Simply roast your beets in the oven until tender, then chop and mix with crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Carrot and Ginger Soup
This comforting and nutritious soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly September evening. Simply sauté chopped carrots and onions in olive oil, then add in chicken or vegetable broth, ginger, and a splash of cream for a creamy and comforting soup.
Conclusion
September is a fantastic time of year for foodies, with a bounty of delicious fruits, vegetables, and other seasonal ingredients to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for sweet and juicy apples, hearty and earthy beets, or crunchy and nutritious carrots, there’s something for everyone in this month’s seasonal offerings. So next time you’re at the farmer’s market or grocery store, be sure to stock up on the season’s best – your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!
What produce is in season in September?
Produce that is in season in September includes apples, pears, grapes, and a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. These fruits and vegetables are typically at their peak ripeness and flavor during this time, making them a great addition to meals and snacks.
In addition to these staples, other seasonal produce in September may include figs, quince, and persimmons, depending on the region and climate. It’s always a good idea to check with local farmers’ markets or grocery stores to see what’s in season in your area.
What are some recipes I can make with seasonal produce in September?
There are many delicious recipes you can make with seasonal produce in September. One idea is to make a fresh apple crisp using new season apples, or a hearty vegetable stew with broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. You could also try roasting grapes as a sweet and healthy snack, or making a fig and prosciutto salad for a light and refreshing lunch.
Another option is to try your hand at preserving some of the seasonal produce, such as canning pears or making quince jam. These make great gifts or additions to holiday meals later in the year. You could also experiment with new recipes that feature persimmons, such as persimmon pancakes or persimmon muffins.
Are there any benefits to buying seasonal produce?
Yes, there are several benefits to buying seasonal produce. One of the main advantages is that it tends to be fresher and more flavorful, since it doesn’t have to travel as far to reach your table. This can also make it cheaper, since transportation costs are lower. Additionally, buying seasonal produce supports local farmers and the local economy, which can have a positive impact on the community.
Buying seasonal produce can also be better for the environment, since it requires less energy to produce and transport. It can also help to promote a more diverse and resilient food system, by supporting a variety of crops and farming practices.
Where can I find seasonal produce in September?
There are several ways to find seasonal produce in September. One option is to visit a local farmers’ market, where you can often find a wide variety of fresh produce straight from the farm. You can also check with local grocery stores or co-ops to see what’s in stock. Many stores will also have signs or labels indicating which produce is in season and locally sourced.
You could also consider joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, which allows you to purchase a share of a local farm’s produce on a regular basis. This can be a great way to get fresh, seasonal produce delivered right to your doorstep, while also supporting local agriculture.
How do I store seasonal produce to keep it fresh?
The best way to store seasonal produce will depend on the type of produce and its ripeness when you bring it home. In general, it’s a good idea to keep fruits and vegetables separate, since fruits give off ethylene gas as they ripen, which can cause vegetables to spoil more quickly.
For fruits like apples and pears, it’s best to store them in a cool, dry place, such as a cellar or pantry. You can also store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer. For vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic bags or wrapped in damp paper towels to keep them moist.
Can I freeze seasonal produce to use later?
Yes, many types of seasonal produce can be frozen to use later. This is a great way to preserve the flavor and nutrition of the produce, and can be especially useful for fruits and vegetables that are only available for a short time. For example, you can wash, chop, and freeze apples or pears to use in baked goods or smoothies later.
It’s also possible to freeze vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, either blanched and then frozen, or frozen raw. Frozen produce can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to casseroles and roasted vegetable dishes.
Are there any special considerations for cooking with seasonal produce in September?
Yes, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind when cooking with seasonal produce in September. One thing to keep in mind is that many fruits and vegetables are at their peak ripeness, so they may be more fragile and require more gentle handling and cooking. For example, apples and pears may be more prone to browning, so it’s a good idea to cook them quickly and use acidic ingredients like lemon juice to prevent browning.
Another thing to consider is that some seasonal produce, such as figs and persimmons, may be more delicate and require special handling. For example, figs are highly perishable and should be used within a few days of purchase, while persimmons should be ripened at room temperature before using.