January’s Bounty: Unlocking Australia’s Most Delicious and Affordable Fruits and Veggies
Winter might be knocking on the door, but Australia’s produce scene is heating up! This month, a vibrant array of fruits and vegetables are at their peak, offering both incredible flavor and wallet-friendly prices. But here's where it gets controversial: while some staples are thriving, others are facing shortages, leaving shoppers with tough choices. Let’s dive into the juicy details and uncover the best (and worst) buys for January.
Apricots: A Fleeting Delight
Apricot lovers, rejoice – but act fast! These golden gems are in season, but their stay is short-lived. Graham Gee, senior buyer at Melbourne’s Happy Apple, raves about the current Victorian varieties, with Tasmanian ones taking the baton later this month. Priced between $5 and $8 per kilo, Gee’s favorite is the Moorpark apricot. “They might not win beauty contests,” he admits, “but their flavor is unparalleled.” And this is the part most people miss: their rich taste makes them perfect for Helen Goh’s honey-roasted apricots with oat shortcakes – a recipe that elevates this humble fruit to dessert stardom.
Stone Fruits Steal the Show
Michael Simonetta, owner of Sydney’s La Frutteria, agrees that stone fruits are the stars of January. Supermarkets are brimming with nectarines at $5 per kilo and peaches at $4 per kilo. For a refreshing twist, try Rachel Roddy’s peaches and basil in wine – a summer punch that’s as elegant as it is easy. Flat peaches, once a niche favorite, are now hitting the mainstream, though their premium price of $10 per kilo reflects their growing popularity. Flat nectarines, a newer addition to Australian markets, are pricier at $1 each but worth the hunt for their unique sweetness.
Lychees: The Dragon’s Egg
Lychees are another January highlight, with prices ranging from $18 to $20 per kilo. Gee recommends the Erdon Lee variety, often called ‘dragon’s eggs’ for their impressive size. “They’re packed with flesh and bursting with flavor,” he says. Pair them with a light dessert or enjoy them on their own for a tropical treat.
Cherries and Strawberries: Extended Enjoyment
Cherry lovers, you’re in luck! There’s still six to eight weeks to savor these ruby delights. Victorian varieties like Regina and Sylvia are abundant, while Tasmanian cherries, priced between $20 and $50 per kilo, are a luxury worth indulging in. Strawberries, too, are having a moment, thanks to Victoria’s cold spring. Gee describes them as “vibrant, juicy, and sweet,” perfect for snacking or baking.
Grapes: The New Kids on the Block
But Gee’s most exciting find? Grapes. “Farmers are bringing incredible new varieties to market,” he says. Sweet Globe, Ruby Rush, Crispy Dream, and Sweet Sapphire are just a few names to watch. These grapes aren’t just delicious – they’ll stick around into autumn. At the Happy Apple, Sweet Sapphires are $5 per punnet, while Candy Snap varieties fetch $8.50 at supermarkets. It’s a grape revolution, and you won’t want to miss it.
Corn and Beans: Summer Staples
Sweetcorn from South Australia and Victoria is plentiful, with prices as low as $1 per ear. For a summer salad, try Michael Rantissi’s sweetcorn and risoni recipe, or grill them for Georgina Hayden’s charred corn, chorizo, and avocado dish. Green beans, sugar snaps, and snow peas are also at their best. Gee advises opting for hand-picked green beans, which are pricier ($8–$10 per kilo) but firmer and less bruised than machine-picked ones. Supermarkets offer them for $6.50–$7.50 per kilo, but the quality difference is noticeable.
Tomatoes and Lettuce: Budget-Friendly Basics
Tomatoes are a steal this month, with prices ranging from $4 to $6 per kilo at La Frutteria. Baby cos lettuce is equally affordable, selling for $2 to $4 per head. Simonetta’s favorite, iceberg lettuce, is just $2 to $3 per head at supermarkets – perfect for crisp salads or sandwiches.
Mangoes: A Pricey Farewell
Mango lovers, take note: prices have risen since Christmas, with mangoes now costing $3 to $5 each. The Northern Territory season has ended, and Queensland’s is winding down. Enjoy them while you can, but be prepared to pay a premium.
What to Buy, Watch, and Avoid
Buy Now: Apricots, Australian grapes, avocados, blackberries, cherries, green beans, lettuce, limes, lychees, mangoes (hurry!), nectarines, peaches, plums, tomatoes, watermelon, and zucchini.
Watch Closely: Lemons (prices will drop soon) and sugar snaps (likely to become more affordable).
Avoid for Now: Bananas (low supply), Brussels sprouts, and red capsicums.
A Controversial Question for You
Is it worth paying a premium for hand-picked green beans, or do machine-picked ones suffice? And with mango prices soaring, are they still a must-buy this month? Share your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to hear your take on January’s produce picks!
