In our September seasonal vegetable update we transition into autumn, a pivotal point in the agricultural calendar of the UK.
The fields and gardens brim with an abundance of seasonal vegetables, each with unique flavours and myriad culinary possibilities. For chefs, September offers the opportunity to explore vibrant produce at its peak, providing the freshest flavours to elevate everyday dishes.
In our September seasonal update we will spotlight some of the finest vegetables that come into season, discuss their flavour profiles, suggest delicious ingredient pairings, and present some menu ideas.
To round things off, we’ll explore some international vegetables that also find their seasonal stride in September.
Seasonal Vegetables in September
Broccoli
Broccoli boasts a mildly sweet, earthy flavour with a slight bitterness that can be enhanced through different cooking methods.
Its crunchy stems and tender florets lend versatility, making it a favourite among chefs.
Pairing Suggestions
Broccoli pairs wonderfully with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. It also complements proteins like chicken and fish, as well as rich, creamy elements like cheeses and sauces.
Menu Ideas
Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic and olive oil, sprinkled with parmesan cheese and served warm as a tasty side.
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup – A rich, creamy soup blending steamed broccoli with sharp Cheddar cheese, garnished with crispy croutons.
Stir-Fried Chicken with Broccoli – Chicken pieces stir-fried with broccoli, ginger, and soy sauce, served over steamed rice.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower with its mild, nutty flavour and firm texture that becomes tender when cooked. It serves as a versatile canvas for various seasonings and methods, from roasting to mashing.
Pairing Suggestions
Cauliflower pairs beautifully with spices like cumin and turmeric, as well as creamy dairy like yogurt and cheeses. It complements hearty grains like quinoa and brown rice as well.
Menu Ideas
Cauliflower Steaks – Thick slices of cauliflower grilled or roasted and topped with chimichurri sauce, served with a side of salad.
Curried Cauliflower Soup – A creamy soup infused with coconut milk and spices, topped with cilantro and served with warm naan.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – A comfort dish that replaces pasta with roasted cauliflower, combined with a gooey cheddar sauce.
Chard
Swiss chard has a slightly bitter green leaf with a subtle sweetness and earthy undertones. Its sturdy stalks add a crunchy texture, which is just as edible as the leafy greens.
Pairing Suggestions
Chard pairs well with garlic, onions, and citrus. It can also complement richer ingredients like bacon or cream, making it versatile in various preparations.
Menu Ideas
Sautéed Chard with Garlic – Fresh chard sautéed in olive oil with garlic, finished with a squeeze of lemon – a simple yet flavourful side dish.
Chard and Feta Quiche – A savoury quiche featuring sautéed chard, feta cheese, and herbs, baked in a flaky pastry shell.
Chard-Stuffed Pasta – Wholesome pasta stuffed with a mix of sautéed chard, ricotta, and herbs, topped with marinara sauce.
Potatoes
The potato, a staple of British cuisine, presents a creamy, earthy flavour with various textures depending on the variety. They serve as a blank canvas for both bold and subtle flavours.
Pairing Suggestions
Potatoes work wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme, butter, and cheese. They can accommodate virtually any ingredient, making them highly versatile.
Menu Ideas
Herb-Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes tossed with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil – a perfect accompaniment to any main course.
Potato Leek Soup – A creamy soup made with simplicity; pureed potatoes and leeks, garnished with chives and served with crusty bread.
Mashed Potato with Truffle Oil – Creamy mashed potatoes enhanced with truffle oil, served as a luxurious side.
Carrots
Carrots transition into peak season in September, showcasing their natural sweetness and a crunchy bite. They are incredibly versatile, easily adapting to both savoury and sweet applications.
Pairing Suggestions
Carrots pair exceptionally well with honey, cumin, and nuts like almonds or pistachios. They also complement proteins, such as lamb and chicken, beautifully.
Menu Ideas
Honey-Glazed Carrots – Roasted carrots drizzled with honey and sprinkled with thyme, providing a sweet and herbal flavour profile for a side dish.
Carrot and Tomato Salad – A refreshing salad featuring grated carrots, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette, topped with pumpkin seeds.
Spiced Carrot Hummus – A vibrant dip made with pureed carrots, tahini, and spices, served with pita chips and fresh vegetable sticks.
Squash
September brings various squash varieties into season, including butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash. Their flavours are typically sweet and nutty, with a creamy, rich texture when cooked.
Pairing Suggestions
Squash pairs well with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, as well as savoury elements like sage, garlic, and cheeses, making it perfect in both sweet and savoury dishes.
Menu Ideas
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – A velvety, warming soup made from roasted butternut squash, garlic, and ginger, topped with a swirl of cream.
Stuffed Acorn Squash – Acorn squash halves filled with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, roasted to tender perfection.
Spaghetti Squash Primavera – Spaghetti squash strands tossed with seasonal vegetables and a light olive oil and herb sauce, garnished with parmesan.
Best International Vegetables in Season in September
In addition to the bountiful UK vegetables, September also introduces a variety of international vegetables to our markets, each bringing exciting global flavours to the table.
Bell Peppers
Sweet and colourful bell peppers arrive in abundance, adding crunch and flavour to dishes. Their versatility makes them a delightful addition to salads, stir-fries, and salsas.
Aubergine
Celebrated for its creamy texture, eggplant can elevate dishes with its ability to soak up flavours. Grilled, roasted, or sautéed, eggplant adds depth to countless recipes.
Okra
With its unique texture and mild taste, okra shines in gumbos and curries. Its seasonal appearance allows for diverse culinary exploration across various cuisines.
Sweet Potatoes
With their rich sweetness, sweet potatoes can be prepared in numerous ways, from roasting and mashing to baking in pies. Their versatility lends them to both savoury and sweet applications.
Green Beans
Green beans offer a crunchy texture and mild flavour, acting as a perfect companion to a wide array of dishes. They can be steamed, sautéed, or roasted, making them a perfect side vegetable.
September is a delightful month in which to celebrate seasonal vegetables in the UK. From the rich earthiness of broccoli and cauliflower to the sweet crunch of apples and squash, the array of flavours available creates endless culinary possibilities.
For chefs, this month offers a charming opportunity to showcase local produce.
By pairing these vegetables with complementary ingredients and inventive preparations, you can create memorable dishes that delight the palate and elevate any menu.
Moreover, with the international vegetables that grace our shores this month, exploring and incorporating diverse flavours can add unique flair to your cooking.
Let’s toast to the incredible bounty of September and the endless possibilities it brings!
