September is the month of harvest – so plenty of choice here on the market. Headlines this month include the first Turkish black figs and increased volumes of English apples and pears.
FRUIT
For English apples, expect Worcester, Cox and russets. Discovery are now over. The first Conference pears are also on hand. Turkish black figs are abundant and very reasonably priced – a definite must on any menu.
Other highlights are English plums – Victoria and Marjorie’s Seedling. Cobnuts, sloes, blueberries, blackberries and strawberries are among the other prime homegrown fruit on offer.
From Spain, expect more of their peaches, nectarines, apricots and melons.
Note that lemons are unusually expensive as we wait for the Spanish season to start. Most supplies are from South Africa, with a few supplies trickling in from South American countries such as Argentina.
VEG
All the English veg is in fine fettle. You will still find broad beans and peas. Sweetcorn, courgettes and squashes are abundant. Runner beans and French beans are also on hand.
Kales are back on the menu after the tricky summer heat. New season onions are excellent quality, along with parsnips, beets and carrots. Cabbages including Savoy and Hispi and well priced. Maincrop jacket potatoes such as King Edwards are also arriving in bulk. Broccoli and cauliflowers are up and down. For salads, expect the full range of British varieties – from Lollo Rosso to Cos.
EXTRAS
Wild mushrooms are a fine buy – including Girolle from Scotland. For something a touch more unusual, look out for colourful prickly pears from Sicily.
