A Guide to Seasonal Autumn Fruits
Purchasing seasonal fruit is important, as it is at its peak in terms of nutrients and flavour, and is often more economical.
Autumn is a bountiful season for fruits that provide energy, vitamins, and antioxidants, helping us cope with the winter chill and prevent colds by strengthening our immune system.
Discover the nutritional properties of each fruit, how to store them properly, tips for purchasing, and their culinary applications, including preserves and various recipes.
Autumn Fruits:
Figs
Figs are a sweet fruit typically found at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. Due to their fragility, they are consumed fresh only during autumn, although dried figs are often enjoyed at Christmas.
Quince
Quince is a fruit specific to autumn and is only consumed after cooking. Therefore, it is primarily used to make jams, compotes, or the popular quince paste.
Grapes
Grapes are rich in antioxidants and are particularly enjoyed during autumn, their prime season.
Persimmon
Persimmons are a tropical fruit associated with autumn, making it quite rare to find them fresh at other times.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are refreshing with a sweet-sour taste and are growing in popularity due to their health benefits, including a high antioxidant content and their reputed ability to stimulate sexual desire, earning them the title of ‘natural viagra.’
Apples
Apples, one of the most consumed fruits globally, are at their best in autumn. Explore the different types of apples, how to store them, and their culinary uses.
Pears
Pears are a common fruit in all households. Although they can be purchased year-round, their peak season is in autumn. Pears are a good source of vitamin C, fibre, potassium, and vitamin E.
Kiwis
Kiwis are exceptionally high in vitamin C and can be used to make preserves, beverages, or enjoyed fresh. Learn how to store them and what to look for when buying.
Blueberries
Blueberries are at their best in September. Out of season, they are only available frozen, canned, or dried.
Raspberries
Raspberries peak from late summer to October. During the rest of the year, they are only available frozen, canned, or in syrup. Blackberries mature in late summer and early autumn, but they can be easily frozen to enjoy year-round.
Nuts:
Autumn is the season for nuts, which are rich in antioxidants and a good source of energy. Additionally, nuts are easy to store.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts are a nut specific to autumn often associated with Christmas. Because they can be stored easily, they are available until late winter.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are in season during autumn, although their peak demand occurs during the Christmas festivities.
Walnuts
The best time to buy walnuts is in November, when they are found ripe and dried.
