What’s in Season: Winter

Winter is citrus season, with plenty of roots and greens for soups and roasting. What’s available, and when, varies by region and by the season itself, so treat this as a starting point and ask at your market what’s good that week.

Fruit

• NaartjiesEasy-peel soft citrus, usually the first citrus of the season.
• Oranges, lemons and grapefruitChoose fruit that feels heavy for its size: it’s juicier. Zest before you squeeze.
• AvocadosRipen them at room temperature; a paper bag with a banana speeds things up.
• GuavasFragrant when ripe. Eat them fresh or poach them in syrup.

Vegetables

• Cabbage, cauliflower and broccoliRoasting brings out their sweetness.
• Carrots, beetroot, turnips and leeksFor soups, stews and trays of roast vegetables.
• Spinach and kaleHardy greens that handle cold weather well. Wilt into soups and stews at the end.