A Guide to In-Season Fruits and Vegetables
22nd August 2023
22nd August 2023
As the summer sun continues to grace the UK, the vibrant orchards and fields of Kent burst forth with an abundance of seasonal treasures. Late August brings a cornucopia of succulent fruits and vegetables, enticing our taste buds and nourishing our bodies with nature’s finest offerings.
When it comes to quintessential British fruits, apples reign supreme. Kent, often referred to as the “Garden of England,” is renowned for its apple orchards. Late August marks the beginning of apple season, with varieties such as Discovery and Worcester Pearmain making their appearance. These early apples are a testament to Kent’s dedication to preserving traditional orchard practices, resulting in perfectly crisp and flavourful fruits.
In the hedgerows and woodlands of Kent, blackberries are beginning to ripen, transforming the landscape into a treasure trove of juicy delights. These plump berries are not only delicious on their own but also lend themselves beautifully to jams, pies and crumbles. Whether you’re foraging for blackberries or picking them up from local shops and markets, their sweet-tart flavour is an undeniable emblem of late summer.
As late August unfolds, Kent’s pear trees become heavy with the promise of their luscious fruit. Varieties like Conference and Concorde offer a delightful combination of sweetness and texture. These pears are perfect for enjoying fresh or incorporating into salads, cheeses and desserts. Their versatility makes them a staple in many Kentish kitchens during this time.
While fruits take centre stage, let’s not forget the array of vegetables that thrive in Kent’s soil during late August. Courgettes are abundant and versatile, finding their way into soups, fritters and salads. Sweetcorn graces our tables with its plump kernels, often enjoyed grilled or boiled. And let’s not overlook beans—whether it’s crunchy green beans or tender runner beans, they provide a burst of freshness and nutrition to summer dishes.
As the sun-ripened days of August unfold, plums paint the orchards with their rich hues of purple, red and yellow. Kentish plums like Victoria and Opal are renowned for their intense sweetness and aromatic flavours. Enjoy them fresh or transform them into jams, chutneys or even a traditional plum crumble. These stone fruits capture the essence of the season in every bite.
In the vegetable gardens of Kent, cabbages and cauliflowers thrive under the late summer sun. These cruciferous delights are not only delicious but also pack a nutritional punch, rich in vitamins and fibre. From coleslaw to roasted cauliflower steaks, these vegetables offer a range of culinary possibilities, making them a cornerstone of balanced late-summer meals.
One of the most rewarding aspects of indulging in seasonal produce is the opportunity to support local farmers and producers. Kent’s agricultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the land and the people who cultivate it. By choosing locally grown fruits and vegetables, you contribute to the sustainability of the region’s food ecosystem, fostering a sense of connection and community.
The Pantiles is the perfect venue to indulge and stock up on local produce this month. Many of our restaurants, bars and cafes pride themselves on their selection of locally sourced food. Plus, our stores are a veritable feast of homegrown goodies, which you can take away and savour in the comfort of your own home!
Nestled in the heart of The Pantiles, Oliver Greens is a haven of tasty offerings. The shop boasts a well-curated selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheese and chutneys, as well as a selection of meats and fresh flowers.
Find out more about Oliver Greens, and our other stores and eateries.