The Wholesalers operating out of the Brisbane Markets, with their national grower networks, ensure that your local independent fruit and veg shop is supplied with the best fresh produce available, even as recent weather events and the annual seasonal slow-down continue to put pressure on supplies of a number of produce lines.
The pick of the week is Cauliflower from the Lockyer Valley. Cauliflower is a high-fibre superfood with a similar nutritional profile to its close cousin Broccoli – Vitamins C and B6 and minerals including potassium, magnesium and iron. Its white florets make an excellent substitute for rice or potatoes delivering more vitamins and antioxidants and fewer carbs. Eaten raw it has a subtle nutty flavour but roasting or steaming releases its natural sugars. For an indulgent special occasion side dish why not try Roasted Cauliflower with Yogurt and Pomegranate.
Also out of the Lockyer Valley and in good supply are Carrots and Snow Peas, with Bundaberg also delivering a steady supply of very high quality Snow Peas. Stir frys, like this Chicken and Vegetable classic, add protein and allow you to use up left over veg that might otherwise end up on the compost heap.
North Queensland Pumpkin from Bowen and Ayr are in steady supply. Pumpkin is an incredibly versatile ingredient rich in nutrients. It is the densest source of Vitamin A with 60 grams delivering your whole daily recommended intake. It owes its orange colour to beta-carotenes, powerful antioxidants that reduce the risk of some cancers. When choosing pumpkin use your ears as well as your eyes. A ripe Pumpkin sounds hollow when knocked.
Salad lovers are in luck with steady supplies of Mesclun, Spinach, Rocket and hydro Lettuce from the Locker Valley, Tomatoes from Bowen and Bundaberg and Lebanese Cucumbers from NSW. For something different why not try this Rocket, Pear and Walnut Salad.
Strawberries from the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay continue to be well supplied as are North Queensland Rockmelon and Watermelon from the Daintree growing region. For a mouthwatering combination of flavours and textures it’s hard to beat this Watermelon, Rockmelon and Goats Cheese Salad.
Supplies of Mandarins from Gayndah, Wide Bay and interstate remain steady as are supplies of Ginger and Pineapple from the Sunshine Coast and Gympie. Ginger and Mandarin combine beautifully in this tart recipe which has to be the most delicious way going to avoid a Spring cold.
Remember to shop where you see the A Better Choice! Logo for the freshest, highest quality seasonal produce sourced from the Brisbane Markets and friendly, knowledgeable service from your local independent fruit and veg shop.
About Brisbane Markets
As Queensland’s only central fruit and vegetable market, the Brisbane Markets is the state’s most important centre for the marketing and distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables. It records an annual trade of over 700 million kilograms of produce valued at more than $2 billion.
An important economic and employment hub, more than 4,500 people work or do business at the markets each day through over 170 businesses. This includes over 50 wholesalers who receive fresh produce from over 7,000 growers and trade five days a week to more than 800 registered buyers.
Your local A better choice! fruit and veg shop hand picks their produce from the Brisbane Markets at Rocklea, which comes from thousands of Australian farms. Why not call in and see your local fruit and veg shop for the best quality, choice, freshness, and service available!
