Fall for These Seasonal Foods
Fall harvest season is flourishing, and we have the scoop on your freshest bets. Though the unforgiving Texas heat has left its mark on the crops, there are still plenty of delicious fall seasonal foods to add to our plates. (They’re also effective boosters for your immune system before cold and flu season arrives.)
Shop Local
Texans have plenty of ways to shop for in-season fruits and vegetables. Start a crisp fall weekend with a trip to the farmers market. Not only is it a great way to get your produce right from the source, but markets are a great spot to see what fruits and veggies are in season. Plus, you will find plenty of pumpkin-inspired pastries and autumnal crafts from local artists.
Fall Seasonal Foods
So, what IS in season right now in Texas? Although locally grown melons are on their way out, pumpkin varieties are rolling into grocery stores, patches, and markets across the state. Whether you prefer your pumpkin in baked form or adorning your porch, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this popular fruit into your holiday festivities. In addition to the plentiful pumpkins, you’ll find mouth-watering apples, pears, and persimmons, all of which make for delicious cakes, pies, jams, and chutneys that can take you through winter.
In-season fall vegetables tend toward hardy greens such as kale and chard, as well as beans. Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli are versatile and nutritious additions to any meal. Root vegetables, including beets, onions, sweet potatoes, carrots, and garlic, all suggest cozy soups simmering on the stove. The good thing is, some herbs continue to grow regardless of drought or rain, so you can count on fresh thyme and sage to stuff a turkey and flavor your stews until spring.
Get Creative
Wondering what to do with these autumnal delights? Here are a few ideas to get your taste buds singing as you roam the markets this autumn.
- If you want to keep your immune system strong, try this recipe for homemade mulled cider.
- A classic fall dessert is a persimmon cake. Easy to make, healthy, and yummy for the tummy — what could be better?
- How about a chutney to use now or to give as holiday gifts? One that takes advantage of in-season apples and figs is this recipe from The Proper Foodie.
- Treat your gut with this healing fermenting recipe. Chalk full of benefits, fermented veggies are a great addition to main dishes or as a standalone snack.
- Whether you roast them, add them to a salad with goat cheese, or even puree and bake them into a chocolate cake, beets add a healthy dose of nutrients to any dish. If you are interested in going undercover with beets in dessert, look no further!
Want to grow your own hearty harvest? Put your green thumb to the test with a few helpful tips on when to start planting fall vegetables.
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