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What's In Season? The Best Ingredients To Use Until Spring
Many people think that summer is the only growing season in New York. That's actually not true. There are many fall and winter vegetables that can be grown throughout the year under the right conditions. Many fruits and vegetables can be stored for long periods of time after they have been harvested. Herbs and spices can be grown throughout the year in windowsill gardens and harvested fresh as they are needed. If you're looking at Westchester County homes for sale, ask our real estate agents about local sellers where you can find these produce items.
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Winter squash – Winter squash can include acorn squash, butternut, pumpkin, and spaghetti squash, as well as many others. They are rich in vitamins A and C. Because they are harvested in the fall, they can be stored throughout the winter.
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Cabbage – Cabbage is another vegetable that can be harvested in the fall and stored throughout the winter months. It will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator or other cool environment.
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Sweet potatoes – Sweet potatoes are harvested in the fall and can easily be stored in a bag for several months. They are best when used within a few days of being harvested because they will be more flavorful and have more of their natural nutrients.
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Citrus fruits – Even though citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are not grown locally, they are high in vitamin C. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and will store well in the refrigerator until you can use them.
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Beets – Beets can be harvested in early fall and used for the next several months. They will store well if they are kept in a cool, dry place.
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Shallots – Shallots can be harvested throughout the fall or any time of the year if you are growing them in a planter indoors. The garlic/onion flavor is quite unique and can add a robust flavor to your foods.
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Parsnips – Parsnips resemble a small white carrot and will add an abundance of flavor to soups and other dishes. Smaller ones are easier to use and provide a delicious nut-like flavor.
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Rosemary – Rosemary is one of many herbs that can be grown in small pots on your windowsill and can be used all year long.
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Fennel – Fennel tea is ideal for your windowsill garden and is great for making tea that will reduce discomfort when you are sick. You can also use it in recipes for baking.
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Oregano – Another windowsill herb, it works great in many Italian recipes and can be harvested any time of year if it is grown inside.
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Basil – Basil is one of many windowsill herbs that grow well inside your home. Use it fresh in recipes all year round.
While a few of these (citrus, for example) must be shipped into the New York area, a few can be grown locally, even into the fall. The herbs and spices can be grown in small pots on your windowsill, allowing you to harvest fresh all year long. Buying local not only supports your community's economy but also ensures that everything you buy is as fresh as possible. Contact us to learn more about local Farmer's Markets in your area.
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