Virginia Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in December
A Guide to Fresh Produce Selection
This Article is Part of our Virginia Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
Virginia's winter season offers a unique tapestry of flavors as a variety of fruits (What wine goes well with fruit?) and vegetables come into their peak season. December particularly boasts an array of produce that is fresh, flavorful, and nutritious. Farmers and markets are stocked with cool-weather crops that have adapted to the regional climate, giving consumers access to locally-sourced and sustainable options.
Among the December offerings, leafy greens like collard greens and kale thrive in the cold, often sweetening after a frost. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, beets (how long do beets last?), and carrots (how long do carrots last?) are also abundant, having been given ample time to develop their full-bodied flavors under the soil. Moreover, crisp apples and firm pears continue to be available, having been harvested in the fall and stored for winter use.
These seasonal selections are not only a cornerstone of holiday meals (What wine goes well with holiday meals?) but also an important aspect of supporting local agriculture and promoting a sustainable food system. By choosing Virginia-grown produce in December, individuals can enjoy the fresh, high-quality bounty while supporting local farmers during the winter season.
Understanding Seasonality
In Virginia, seasonal shifts are essential to understanding what produce is available at any given time. Seasonality affects flavor, nutrition, and local economy.
The Importance of Seasonal Produce
Consuming seasonal produce ensures individuals are enjoying fruits and vegetables at the peak of their freshness, offering optimal taste and nutritional benefits. Winter months are as significant as any other season for the variety they bring.
Flavor: Seasonal fruits and vegetables grown in their proper season have naturally ripened, making them more flavorful.
Nutrition: Produce that is in season locally is more likely to have a higher nutritional content.
Economic Support: Choosing seasonal items supports local farmers and economies, promoting sustainability.
December's Place in the Virginia Growing Seasons
December falls within Virginia's winter growing season, transitioning from the abundance of fall and preceding the rebirth of spring. Crop availability during this month is distinct from what one may find in the summer months.
Winter Crops: Items like apples and certain root vegetables thrive in this colder month.
Indoor Growing: Some farmers may use greenhouses, which can extend the growing seasons for certain crops.
Seasonal Highlights for December in Virginia:
Fruits: Apples continue from fall through winter.
Vegetables: Root vegetables such as beets and carrots are commonly harvested.
It's vital for consumers to understand that the availability of specific crops in December may vary due to factors like weather conditions affecting the growing seasons.
December's Seasonal Produce in Virginia
In December, Virginia's harvest offers a rich variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs despite the cold weather. This bounty of produce provides an opportunity for delicious, seasonal eating.
Vegetables Available
Root Vegetables and Brassicas:
Root Vegetables: The chilly December ground yields a robust selection of root vegetables. Look for sweet, earthy beets, nutrient-rich carrots, and versatile parsnips. Turnips and celeriac, also known as celery root, are also in ample supply, offering a variety of options for hearty winter dishes.
Brassicas: Broccoli (how long does broccoli last?)and cauliflower remain in season, whereas Brussels sprouts reach their peak. Kale and cabbage, both cold-hardy vegetables, are widely available and perfect for nutrient-packed salads and stews.
Greens and Squash:
Greens: Despite the cold, certain types of greens thrive. Spinach and collard greens (how long do collard greens last?) can be found fresh in the markets.
Winter Squash: Varieties of winter squash like butternut, acorn, and delicata squash are available, excellent for roasting or making into a comforting soup.
Miscellaneous Vegetables:
Find fennel (how long does fennel last?) with its licorice(how long does licorice last?)-like flavor, along with earthy leeks. Crisp radishes and various types of onions are also in abundance.
Fruits in Season
Seasonal Staples:
Apples: Virginia's apples are still plentiful in December, with a variety of types available for eating fresh or using in holiday baking.
Pears: Ripe and sweet, pears can be found in several varieties, making them perfect for desserts or as a complement to savory dishes.
Citrus and Other Fruits:
While not as commonly associated with Virginia, some varieties of citrus fruits like clementines may be available due to interstate trade. Likewise, persimmons add a unique flavor to the December fruit landscape.
Herbs and Other Flavors
Robust Herbs:
Herbs such as sage and thyme continue to be available in December, adding depth to winter dishes.
While not typically associated with winter, hearty strains of basil may still be found.
Alliums and More:
Garlic and shallots are found aplenty during December, offering a robust flavor base for many seasonal recipes.
Look also for the distinctive anise-flavored fennel fronds to add a touch of freshness to your December culinary creations.
Health Benefits of Seasonal Eating
Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables in December aligns with receiving optimal nutrition while supporting local agriculture. The reader will gain insight into how this practice provides robust health benefits.
Nutritional Advantages
Seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested during their peak months, like those found in Virginia in December, often contain higher levels of essential nutrients. For example, Brussels sprouts and cabbages are particularly rich in vitamins and minerals during the colder months. They are also an excellent source of fiber, which is crucial for maintaining digestive health.
Seasonal produce often offers the following benefits:
Increased nutritional value: Seasonal items may have higher levels of certain vitamins and antioxidants.
Better taste: Fruits and veggies tend to be more flavorful when harvested at the right time.
Promoting Local Produce
Choosing local produce means individuals are getting fruits and vegetables that haven't spent extended periods in transit, often translating to fresher, more nutritious options. Moreover, buying local supports Virginia communities and minimizes one's carbon footprint due to reduced transportation distances.
Embracing local, seasonal produce can lead to:
Stronger economy: Supporting local farmers aids in sustaining the regional agricultural industry.
Community health: Fresh, less-processed foods contribute to better overall health within the community.
Culinary Inspiration for Winter Produce
In the heart of winter, the bountiful produce of December offers both nourishing comfort and vibrant flavors. Virginia's seasonal vegetables and fruits become the foundation for hearty stews, aromatic soups, and festive fruit dishes that captivate the palate with their variety and rich flavor profiles.
Cooking with Seasonal Vegetables
Roasted: Vegetables like Brussels sprouts and broccoli are prime candidates for roasting. They develop a deep, sweet flavor and a satisfying crunch that enhances any winter meal. Broccoli can also be incorporated into stir-frys for a quick and nutritious addition.
Stews and Soups: The robust flavors of winter produce shine in stews and soups. Root vegetables, such as carrots and beets, lend their earthy tones while absorbing spices and seasonings, becoming tender and flavorful.
Variety in Dishes: Beyond roasting and stewing, incorporating a variety of vegetables like kale and romanesco—a cauliflower-like vegetable with a geometric pattern—adds visual interest and a punch of nutrition to dishes, whether they're sautéed or served raw in salads.
Winter Fruit Recipes
Cranberries: A classic winter berry, cranberries can be used in sauces, baked goods, or as a tangy addition to sweet and savory dishes. They pair beautifully with oranges, another winter fruit, for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Dessert to Breakfast: Fruits such as clementines, pomegranates, and tangerines are not only rich in vitamin C but also versatile in the kitchen. They can be candied for desserts, tossed into salads, or squeezed into refreshing juices to start the day on a bright note.
Virginia's Seasonal Markets
In December, residents and visitors in Virginia have the distinct opportunity to experience a range of local, seasonal produce at various farmers markets across the state. These markets serve as hubs for obtaining fresh goods straight from the land, fostering a robust agriculture economy.
Farmers Markets and Availability
Farmers Markets across Virginia adapt to the cooler season, with many extending their operations to offer winter-hardy produce. Visitors might find an array of seasonal goods including:
Apples
Beets
Cabbage
Carrots
Leafy Greens such as collards and kale
The state's markets typically adjust their hours and may transition to indoor settings, ensuring the availability of fresh, local options even in the coldest months.
Supporting Virginia Agriculture
By frequenting farmers markets during winter, consumers directly support local farmers and the broader Virginia agriculture sector. This not only sustains the farm-to-fork supply chain but reinforces the state's commitment to agritourism and agricultural diversity.
Shoppers are encouraged to check online resources for specific market times and locations, thereby remaining connected to the rhythm of the region's agricultural offerings.
Conclusion
In December, Virginia's selection of fresh produce is quite distinctive, reflecting the transitional nature from fall to winter. Shoppers can find a range of fruits and vegetables that are at their peak during this period.
Fruits like apples remain abundant, offering crisp and juicy options perfect for both eating fresh and culinary uses. Virginia's climate allows for a variety of apples, making them a staple throughout the winter.
The vegetable selection is equally impressive, with hearty staples such as:
Beets
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
These vegetables are not only versatile in the kitchen but also packed with nutrients, which can be particularly beneficial during the colder months.
For those seeking local and seasonal eating, farmers' markets and Virginia Grown resources provide a guide to what is available. They advocate for both the health benefits and the economic value of purchasing from local sources, supporting Virginia's agricultural industry.
It's also worth noting the role of greenhouse produce and storage crops that extend the availability of certain items like greens and root vegetables beyond their traditional growing season.
Embracing seasonal produce in December allows Virginians to enjoy freshness, support local farmers, and benefit from the nutritional peak of these foods.
