We have selected a few of our locally grown staples that will be available and on menus for you this winter.
Apple
Victoria is a major producer of apples, with 43% of all Australian apples grown in the state. And apples have long been a mainstay of the Mornington Peninsula, with apple orchards first established in the area well over 100 years ago! With many orchards still in operation, the region is best known for its Fuji and Pink Lady apples.
Apples are perfect for winter desserts, with nothing better on a chilly night than finishing a meal with a delicious apple pie or crumble. Download our favourite apple pie recipe here
Potato
The humble spud is a staple in many households, due to it’s countless uses. It’s also the perfect winter produce – who doesn’t love hot chips or a creamy mash on a cold winter’s night? Apart from being incredibly versatile, they also packed full of potassium and fibre.
While potatoes can be grown multiple months of the year, they really come into their own in winter. The Mornington Peninsula is known for some of the more niche potato varieties, including the Kipfler. You will find the Kipfler grown here on the Mornington Peninsula gracing the plates of many dishes in restaurants across Victoria.
Beetroot
One of the most vibrant pieces of winter produce is beetroot. Preferring a cool climate, they are planted in autumn, then ready for harvest in winter. Apart from being incredibly tasty, they are jam-packed full of health benefits, making them a great winter immunity booster. They are incredibly versatile, delicious as a side for a hearty winter roast, or a topping on a tasty woodfired pizza. And are you even Australian if you don’t have beetroot on a burger?
Many growers on the Mornington Peninsula produce beetroot. If you take a wander through the markets, you’re sure to find beetroot chutney or relish. The perfect addition to a cheese platter, a glass of Mornington Peninsula red, and a roaring fireplace.
Broccoli
The humble broccoli is another veggie that thrives in the cool climates, ready to harvest in the winter. Best known for its health benefits, it also makes a great side dish. Don’t be fooled by the boiled broccoli of the past, fresh broccoli prepared properly raises a good meal to a great meal.
Broccoli is delicious when included in warming winter soups and pastas. A winter roast is also incomplete without broccoli and cheese sauce!
Mushrooms & Truffles
Mushrooms and truffles are both part of the fungi family, and truffles are in fact mushrooms that have decided to grow underground. Mushroom farming started in Australia in the early 1930s but didn’t really take off until the 1960s. We are spoilt on the Mornington Peninsula to now have high-quality, gourmet truffles and mushrooms grown and supplied locally. The climate in the region is particularly good for truffles. They need warm summer months and cold winters to flourish.
Winter is also the perfect time to forage for truffles, with the hunt for “black gold” being part of the thrill. They are extremely rare, making them a choice ingredient for fine dining dishes.
Mushrooms are an incredible superfood, being another of those magic foods to help boost your immunity during winter. And they taste amazing on pizzas, in pastas, or just grilled on their own.
Wine Food Farmgate reveals the Mornington Peninsula’s most delicious secrets. It is here you will discover handpicked, hand caught and handmade delights. Explore the farmgates, cafes and restaurants where you can experience the flavours of the Mornington Peninsula
And then there is the growing art scene, fantastic walks, beautiful beaches, towns and villages. With so much more to explore, why wait?
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