Our friends at New World share their expert tips for grabbing a bargain in the fresh food department this week.
FRESH IN: Tamarillos hit their peak in July and August and prices right now are about as low as they will get. Their availability drops a little by September so now is the hour for crumbles and other tam-friendly desserts. Rhubarb is looking plentiful and it’s a similar rosy picture for yams which are big (well, as far as yams go) and crisp. Spinach is one of winter’s stars and along with cabbage is great buying now. Avocados are getting cheaper by the week. “The season ahead is looking mighty good for Avocados!” says New World Fresh Expert Brigit Corson, “we’re still in the new season so the best is yet to come”.
Tamarillo and pear crumble tart
LOOK FOR: Australian tangelos trickling into New World stores. The hybrid of a tangerine and a pomelo or, more commonly found in NZ, mandarin and grapefruit, they are one of the juiciest citrus fruits, have few pips and loads of vitamin C. “Sweet New Zealand tangelos will take over from the imports in about September” says Brigit, “and most of those grown here come from Gisborne”
MOVING ON: The season is nearly over and passionfruit prices are hiking as supply decreases. The local lime season ends in September so supply is starting to dwindle. Imports will replace the local crops around this time. Fortunately for now, prices are still good so pick up a bagful and freeze the juice for later. Remember that microwaving limes for 10 seconds before squeezing them will yield twice as much juice