A Guide to Seasonal Fruits: Autumn Varieties such as Figs, Quinces, Grapes, Persimmons, Pomegranates, Apples, Pears, Kiwis, and Nuts (Chestnuts, Hazelnuts, and Walnuts)
It is important to buy seasonal fruit, as it is at its peak in terms of nutrients and flavour, and is generally more economical.
Autumn is a rich time for fruits that provide us with energy, vitamins, and antioxidants, helping us to cope with the winter chill and preventing colds by boosting our immune system.
Discover the nutritional properties of each fruit, how to store them correctly, tips for shopping, and their usage in the kitchen, whether in preserves or various recipes.
Autumn Fruits:
Figs
Figs are a sweet fruit available from late summer to early autumn. Due to their fragility, they are only consumed fresh during autumn, although dried figs are common during Christmas.
Quince
Quince is an autumn fruit that is only consumed after being cooked. Therefore, it is mainly used to make jam, compote, or the popular quince paste.
Grapes
Grapes are rich in antioxidants and can be enjoyed especially during autumn, their prime season.
Persimmons
Persimmons are a tropical fruit characteristic of autumn, making it quite difficult to find them fresh at other times of the year.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates are refreshing fruits with a sweet and sour flavour that are gaining popularity. They offer numerous health benefits, particularly their high antioxidant content and ability to stimulate sexual desire, often referred to as a natural viagra.
Apples
Apples, one of the most consumed fruits worldwide, have their peak season in autumn. Explore the different types of apples, how to store them, and their culinary uses.
Pears
Pears are a common fruit found in many households. While available all year round, their best season is autumn. Pears are a good source of vitamin C, fibre, potassium, and vitamin E.
Kiwis
Kiwis are highly rich in vitamin C and can be made into preserves, drinks, baked goods, or eaten fresh. Learn how to store them and how to choose the best ones when shopping.
Blueberries
Blueberries are at their best in September. Out of season, they are only available frozen, packaged, or dried.
Raspberries
Raspberries are at their prime from late summer to October. Throughout the rest of the year, they are only available frozen, canned, or in syrup.
Blackberries ripen from late summer to early autumn, but can be easily frozen to enjoy all year round.
Nuts:
Autumn is the season for nuts, which are rich in antioxidants and a good source of energy. Moreover, nuts are notable for their ease of preservation.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts are a nut typical of autumn, often associated with Christmas. Due to their easy preservation, they can be found until the end of winter.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are another nut available fresh in autumn, though they are most sought after during the festive season.
Walnuts
The best time to buy walnuts is in November, as this is when they are ripe and dried.
