As I have mentioned in my market update, this is the time of the year that the better grapes start. My pick of the week is one of the two main varieties of white grapes grown in quantity in Australia called Menindee White Seedless Grapes. This name refers to the variety rather than where they come from - in fact, Menindee is no longer the significant growing area it was thirty years ago.
Menindees have excellent flavour but the skin is a little tougher than the other later white grapes variety called Thompsons, we don’t start these for a while yet. The Menindees tend to be more oval shaped whereas the Thompsons more oblong.
Grapes are rich in compounds known as phytonutrients - active substances in plant foods which appear to help fight disease and enhance health. Menindee white seedless grapes in particular have a high sugar content, with half as glucose, and half as fructose.
HOW TO PICK
When buying grapes, choose firm, plump clusters that are securely attached to their stems. Stems should be green and fresh. Check for the silvery coating or natural bloom that protects the fruit’s freshness.
HOW TO STORE
To keep grapes fresh, store them in an airtight container or in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge. If eaten slightly chilled, they will be slightly crispier. For longer lasting grapes, don’t rinse them until just before use.
