Dave's Market Update
In Veg
“As always, the intensely cold weather that we are experiencing across the country has slowed down vegetable production. As a result, lots of product is somewhat dearer than last week. However, there is still good value to be found in broccolini, cauliflowers and a very good line of prepackaged washed potatoes.
The other bit of good news is we are seeing increased supplies of prepacked corn. Corn has been extremely dear and will start to ease in price going forward."
In Fruit
"Fruit this week will be dominated by berries and in particular strawberries, which are falling in price and magnificent to eat. You really can’t go wrong with any strawberry; however, my pick would be the organic line we sell. Blueberries are great, however, there are not quite as many to choose from this week.
Citrus is also really good. A light frost on the navels improves the flavour. This looks like a fantastic blood orange season as young plantings come on line. Apples are very good. Can I suggest for a change this week to consider the Bravo or Jazz varieties.
Still a mountain of avocados available and this week, pines are starting to ease as well.”
- David Harris
Dave's Pick of the Week - Strawberries
"The Queensland strawberry season is in full swing. The fruit is excellent, full of flavour and very attractively priced. Most of this fruit is grown in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast, where the nights are cold and the days warm. These strawberries are excellent quality and keep very well.
Don’t forget to take them out of the fridge a good half an hour before you consume them. Strawberries are high in vitamin C, low in calories and a great favourite with all generations; a real treat with your breakfast cereal or to snack on at any time of the day."
- David Harris
- David Harris
HOW TO PICK
The perfect strawberry should be fully coloured, firm, bright, plump and shiny. Size plays no part in determining the perfect strawberry. In fact, small strawberries are equally as sweet and juicy as large ones. Make sure the cap (calyx) is attached, green and fresh-looking.
HOW TO STORE
The moisture content of strawberries is high, so always remove fruit from punnets and place (unwashed) in a large container lined with absorbent paper. Strawberries are best stored at 4°C, either uncovered or loosely covered. Serve at room temperature. Only remove their caps after washing and just prior to use.
The perfect strawberry should be fully coloured, firm, bright, plump and shiny. Size plays no part in determining the perfect strawberry. In fact, small strawberries are equally as sweet and juicy as large ones. Make sure the cap (calyx) is attached, green and fresh-looking.
HOW TO STORE
The moisture content of strawberries is high, so always remove fruit from punnets and place (unwashed) in a large container lined with absorbent paper. Strawberries are best stored at 4°C, either uncovered or loosely covered. Serve at room temperature. Only remove their caps after washing and just prior to use.
-David Harris
