Embrace the Season: Winter Produce in New Zealand
At Woop, we always look forward to working with New Zealand's best Winter produce, and creating hearty and warming meals to cosy up at home. We ensure to highlight the rich flavours of winter fruit and vegetables on the menu each week.
Let’s dive into what makes winter produce so special and how you can make the most of it in your kitchen.
WINTER PRODUCE IN NEW ZEALAND
SILVERBEET
Silverbeet is a robust winter vegetable from the same family as beets and spinach. Available in various stem colours like red, orange, and white, it’s perfect perfect for enriching hearty soups and slow-cooked braises.
Top tip from our Recipe Developer, Michelle: "Don’t waste the stems, chop them and add to recipes for zero waste cooking. Stir through soups and braises towards the end of cooking."
BROCCOLI
Believed to have originated from Italy, broccoli is a winter staple. The florets are most commonly used, but the stalks and leaves are also edible. Peel the fibrous parts of the stalk, slice finely, and add to stir-fries, soups, or stews to bulk them up. Pair broccoli with chilli to enhance its sweetness or add a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delicious zing.
MUSHROOMS
Known as the meat of the vegetarian world, mushrooms bring a deep umami flavour to any dish. This winter, look out for varieties like Swiss brown, Portobello, and porcini. Use them in Italian classics such as risotto, ragu, and lasagne to add richness and depth.
LEEKS
The national emblem of Wales, leeks are milder and slightly sweeter than onions. They pair beautifully with creamy sauces and bold cheeses like Cheddar and Parmesan. For a comforting dish, combine leeks with potatoes or other root vegetables in an oven-baked gratin, or steam them and serve with a mustard vinaigrette.
Remember, you can use the green parts too—just slice lengthways, wash well, and chop finely.
CITRUS FRUITS
Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are at their peak in winter. Their zesty flavours and high vitamin C content are great for boosting your immune system to beat the winter chills. Add a squeeze of lemon over a rich stew or use oranges to create refreshing desserts.
APPLES AND PEARS
These fruits are versatile and perfect for both savoury and sweet dishes. Bake them into pies, roast them with meats, or enjoy them fresh. They bring a delightful sweetness to any winter dish.
UPCOMING WOOP WINTER RECIPES
This winter, we’re excited to share some of our favourite recipes that highlight the best of the season. Enjoy the tangy sweetness of Pomegranate Lamb with Charred Cauliflower and Sumac Freekeh, a satisfying and nutritious dinner option. Or warm up with our Roasted Kumara Yellow Curry with Hokkien Noodles and Makrut Lime Leaf, which combines the vibrant flavours of roasted kumara and aromatic makrut lime leaf for a comforting meal.
As winter sets in, let's celebrate the season with meals that bring warmth and joy to our homes. From the vibrant flavours of fresh broccoli and citrus fruits to the hearty comfort of silverbeet and mushrooms, there’s a world of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Try these recipes, share them with loved ones, and make this winter a season to remember.
Winter cooking is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating moments of connection and happiness. So, grab your favourite ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the magic of winter cooking begin. Enjoy every bite and every moment - Woop is here to make your winter meals extraordinary.
