Nothing says spring is here better than a basket full of delicious Aussie-grown fresh fruit and veg from your local fruit and veg shop sourced through the Brisbane Markets for all to enjoy. As the transition in seasons is in full effect, the warmer weather means that favourite spring produce lines are now coming through the Markets with supply increasing regularly. There is an abundance of locally grown Queensland produce available and ready for the taking at the Markets this week.
It’s coronation time at the Brisbane Markets this week as we crown the 2024 Mango King with Mangoes being our pick of the week. The symbolic first tray was auctioned off at The Brisbane Markets this week, with John Nicolaou of Fresh Sensations Carindale and Chermside crowned as the Mango King, following his winning bid of $32,000 to secure the crown. With the sweet and juicy fruit coming into season, be sure to grab a couple at your local fruit and veg shop.
Just starting to hit the Market floor are stone fruits such as Nectarines and Peaches from the Burnett region. Whilst supply is not high just yet, stone fruit from Stanthorpe is due later this month which will boost levels, so if you want to get in early, there is excellent quality out there. Papaw from North Queensland is also in good supply and of high quality.
The Stanthorpe growing season is ending for Royal Gala and Granny Smith Apples which is seeing supply slow a little, however, with Victorian-grown varieties now available and prices steady, both options are ideal for a healthy snack. Last week’s pick of the week, Blueberries, from Bundaberg, New South Wales, and Victoria are still in demand by customers due to favourable prices and the fact that they are perfect spring companions to a smoothie, breakfast cereals and desserts.
Lady Finger Bananas also from North Queensland continue to be in good supply and are very affordable now. Did you know Bananas contain tryptophan, which your body converts into serotonin, a natural mood regulator? That explains why this Pan-fried Bananas with Coconut Yoghurt recipe will make you feel good.
There is currently a good supply of Queensland Garlic from the Lockyer Valley and Granite Belt, to flavour up your food. With the NRL grand final taking place over the upcoming long weekend, get creative with some traditional snacks like this Roasted Garlic Tzatziki or Caprese Garlic Bread with Prosciutto. Also, with Halloween around the corner, having some garlic on hand just in case can only be a good thing.
Carrots from the Lockyer Valley are also in good supply and are a staple in most people’s weekly shop. An excellent source of vitamin A and dietary fibre, this incredibly versatile veggie can be served up in either sweet or savoury dishes and makes for a great healthy juice as well.
One of the most versatile vegetables in the paddock, Eggplant, is plentiful at present and the quality is great. Grown in the Bowen Basin and Burdekin regions, this reliable all-rounder with its unique texture and delicious nutty flavour, is a delicious addition to curries, stews, pies, and dips. Pick up some Eggplant this week and make a delicious appetiser like these Stuffed Eggplant Fritters!
Another versatile vegetable that is in good supply and excellent in quality this week is Zucchini. Add Zucchini to your weekly rotation this spring and get creative. With so many wonderful ways to use this unique vegetable, it is a great option for stir fries, curries, frittatas, noodles, pastas and more. Why not serve up some Greek-Style Loaded Zucchini Fries at your next get together.
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!
