The nights are getting colder, the days darker and everything is beginning to get damp and wet. It’s time to get your woolies out and cuddle up with some warming foods to beat the cold. Traditionally, the cooler months would mean fresh, local food becomes scarce, but luckily we live in a city and province that is thriving. BC has an amazing array of different veggies and fruits to enjoy all year round.
I personally start living off kale and root veggies during the cooler months, roasting foods in my oven or slow cooking in my crock pot. Summer’s departure doesn’t have to be depressing, and lucky for us, we are still getting warm enough weather to still enjoy a crisp outdoor meal full of variety.
This fall, I invite you to explore some local foods that will not only warm your body but also your soul (cue corny music here). Fall into the taste of this cool season with these tasty local foods that you can enjoy this month.
Kale
Get your daily fix of greens with this awesome delicious goddess of a veggie. High in iron, vitamin C and other great nutrients, you can enjoy it sauteed, in salads or even add it to your morning smoothie. Or just eat it straight up raw like nature intended.
Apples
Apples are not only great tasting, but can help regulate your blood sugar. With all the different local varieties you can enjoy this tasty, nutrient-dense fruit in so many delectable ways. Slice it and enjoy it raw with some nut butter, bake it into healthy desserts, add it to your oatmeal at breakfast, the possibilities are endless and versatile.
Squash
No, I'm not talking about the game, I’m talking about the cornucopia of awesome that is this well-known starchy veggie. It is inexpensive and high in nutrients such as vitamins A and C. Enjoy it roasted or in various soup/stew forms.
Turnip
It’s bitter tasting greens are fully packed with calcium and it’s also a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant vitamin that also contributes to the health of your bones and skin. My favorite way to eat them is mashed with some butter and salt and pepper. Brings out the awesome flavors straight to the point.
Cranberries
If you, like so many others, have ever suffered from a UTI, than you are quite familiar with the taste of cranberries, more specifically cranberry juice. Or maybe it’s your favorite side at holiday dinners. Either way, there are lots more ways you can enjoy this vitamin C- and fibre-packed tiny red morsel. For the canners, cranberries make a great jam, you can also add it to any baking that you do. Cranberry muffins or bread anyone? Yes please!
Garlic
Known to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and ward off vampires, these little bulbs pack a punch of medicinal and flavorful benefits. Make sure to add them to meals at the end of your cooking times to reap their many benefits.
RECIPE:
Roasted Root Veggies
Ingredients:
3 carrots
3 medium-sized potatoes
1 turnip
5 cloves garlic whole
1 onion chopped
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh rosemary and sage
½ tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
• Preheat oven to 375F (190C)
• Toss ingredients together in a casserole dish or cookie sheet.
• Bake for 30-45 minutes, checking and stirring often until all veggies are soft enough to stick a fork through.
• Let cool for 2-3 minutes, and enjoy!
