We hope you had your umbrellas handy this week with all the rain. The unpredictability of the summer sunshine or rain has begun. With some produce lines affected by the rain, here at the Brisbane Markets our Wholesalers can source a large variety of produce from not just Queensland but all over the country. Meaning your local independent fruit and veg shops have access to a large range of affordable, quality produce all year round.
While our summer fruits have been getting the attention lately, there is one veg that is always available and deserves a shoutout! Our pick of the week is Brushed Potatoes. Coming from the Atherton Tablelands in North Queensland, Potatoes are versatile, providing us with endless opportunities in the kitchen. These spuds are best used for mash, fried Potatoes, roasted and baked. There’s nothing that tastes quite like a big scoop of fluffy, creamy mash or the taste of chilled sour cream and chives against the warmth of a baked Potato. Why not try a Sheppard’s Pie or Potato bake this week while the rain keeps us inside.
Kent and Jap Pumpkins are in bountiful supply this week from Bundaberg. This savoury veg is rich in vitamin A and C and antioxidants, which will add a tonne of nutrition to all your meals. This recipe features Kent Pumpkins in an alternative twist to the traditional Potato Bake, Baked Chicken with Pumpkin and Chorizo
If you are looking for a versatile veggie, then look no further than the humble Cabbage. A real all-rounder in the kitchen, Cabbage can be braised, sauteed or shredded adding freshness to many dishes. From tacos to slaws, Cabbage is always ready to add to any dish. A steady supply this week from the Locker Valley so you can enjoy the crunch of Cabbage at its best.
Tomatoes are bright and plentiful this week with a range of varieties in great supply from Gourmet to Cherry, Truss and Grapes. This week’s supply is mainly coming from Bundaberg due to the weather conditions in other parts of the country. If you need a change from salads, why not try some fresh Bruschetta made with diced Cherry Tomatoes. Or, this week, don’t buy a jar of bolognaise sauce, show off your cooking skills and make your own to let the Tomatoes give a rich depth of flavour.
There are not many things that go better together than Mangoes and summer. North Queensland Mangoes are brightening up the Brisbane Markets this week with supply good and the price dropping. Full of flavour, they are currently in their peak growing period and will be ready for all of those Christmas time celebrations.
New season Seedless White Grapes have arrived, and word is the quality is exceptional. These Grapes are making their way to the Brisbane Markets from Emerald so be sure to keep an eye out for them at your local fruit and veg shop. White Grapes are a perfect snack where each bite is a satisfying pop followed by the juicy sweet flavour. Rumour is they are also pretty good when juiced, fermented, bottled and chilled.
The Plum season has kicked off with a bang, thanks to some fresh arrivals from around Queensland and South Australia, rolling into the Brisbane Markets. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of biting into a juicy, ripe Plum – a perfect burst of summer joy that’s both sweet and tangy. As the season progresses and supply ramps up, expect even more delicious Plums at prices that will make your taste buds (and wallet) smile!
By shopping at your local fruit and veg shops, you’re making A better choice! for your taste buds and supporting your local community. Taste the freshness of local produce sourced from the Brisbane Markets.
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.
