Brisbane Produce Report – 10 March 2023
Strap yourself in for this week’s bumper produce report! Aussie produce is flourishing right now due to the hot, dry weather and perfect conditions seen in many of our major growing regions. There is a wide variety of fruit and veg available and in-season this week at your local fruit and veg shop. Read on for some inspirational ideas and seasonal recipes to help craft your shopping list.
Our Pick of the Week this week are Grapes. Both Green and Red varieties from Victoria are high in antioxidants and a good source of fibre and potassium. They uniquely combine a sweet yet healthy flavour, making them a popular snack on their own or on these Grapes Pate Crispbreads.
Bananas from North Queensland are in good supply and are nutritious, delicious, and convenient. Banana’s unique shape makes them a perfect ‘on the go’ snack that provides the energy to get you through the day. They are a tasty edition to a smoothie or a cake, or can be used as the star ingredient in this simple, caramelised Banana French Toast.
Rockmelon, Honeydew Melon and Yellow Candy Melon from New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia have reappeared in the Market in numbers this week and they’re perfect for a flavour-filled and refreshing snack. Melons are versatile and can be combined in a salad or paired with savoury selections. Impress your guests at your next dinner party with these Rockmelon and Prosciutto Skewers.
There is a steady supply of Royal Gala Apples from Stanthorpeat your local fruit and veg shopthis weekthat are rich in antioxidants and dietary fibre. While there’s nothing better than crunching into a crisp Apple, you could also use them up in a delicious Sweet Potato and Apples Salad.
Red Papaya is at its best eating and cutting right now. This Far North Queensland fruit has a thin, smooth green and yellow skin and weighs between one to two kilos. It has a distinct flavour and aroma and lots of little black seeds in its hollow centre. Instead of a fruit salad ingredient, make some Breakfast Crepes with Papaya and Passionfruit Glaze.
Figs from Bundaberg are a beautiful fruit with a delicate texture and flavour. To select ripe figs, look for sweet-smelling fruit that gives a little when pressed and is generally soft. Indulge in Figs in everyday life this week with these Fig and Banana Overnight Oats which are super easy to make and are the perfect way to brighten up your morning.
Iceberg Lettuce from Stanthorpe is a fresh salad go-to. This widely used salad vegetable is available at your local fruit and veg shop now. Combine Iceberg Lettuce with Asparagus and Chicken in this Chicken Spring Salad.
Green Beans from Gympie, Stanthorpe and Gatton are in abundance this week and are a good source of dietary fibre and vitamins A and C. Prepare simply by steaming and adding a drizzle of garlic butter for an amazing side dish to any main meal or eat fresh for a great daytime healthy snack. For something different, why not try this Green Bean, Fig and Feta Salad.
Local Brisbane and Bundaberg Eggplant is still of excellent quality this week, perfect for a cool-weather meal. Eggplant can be cooked up into curries, dips or simply roasted to accompany meat or added to salads. Sometimes the cooler weather calls for comfort food, and what’s more comforting than a Parma! Our Eggplant Parma is a delicious and easy recipe that the whole family will love.
Green and Sugarloaf Cabbage from the Darling Downs and Toowoomba are benefitting from the ideal growing conditions with solid yields resulting in a steady supply of both. When choosing a cabbage, pick a tight head that feels heavy for its size. Cabbage should look crisp and fresh, with a few loose leaves. A great waste saving dish is the Cabbage, Potato and Leek Gratin.
Eating beautifully and still in great supply this week are Zucchinis from Stanthorpe and Brisbane. Zucchinis are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. Zucchinis are very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, salads, and even baked goods like Savoury Zucchini Muffins. Pick up some Zucchini at your local fruit and veg shop this week and enjoy the benefits of this delicious squash.
Ginger and Chilli from Bundaberg and greater Brisbane are in very good supply and will add flavour and spice to your meal. For a fancy treat, try Sticky Miso and Chilli Grilled Mango or bake some Australian Gingernut Cookies.
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