Missouri Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in February
A Guide to Fresh Produce
This Article is Part of our Missouri Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
In Missouri, February is a transitional month that glimpses the tail-end of winter produce and the very early signs of spring. Shoppers seeking fresh fruits and vegetables often wonder what's available during this period. The cold winter climate in Missouri limits the variety of fresh produce, yet there remain several fruits and vegetables that can be enjoyed from local sources during this time.
Missouri's farmers' markets and grocer's aisles typically offer storage crops harvested in the previous growing season, such as apples (how long do apples last?) and root vegetables, that preserve well through the cold months. In February, these items are still prominent. Furthermore, hearty winter greens and some greenhouse-grown produce add fresh flavors to the winter palate.
Residents who prefer seasonal eating take advantage of February’s offerings by incorporating locally stored produce and the limited selection of fresh greens into their meals. Although the selection is not as ample as during the bountiful summer months, Missouri's seasonal produce in February reflects the robustness and adaptability of its agriculture, providing nourishment and variety even during the cooler season.
Seasonal Overview
For readers aiming to navigate Missouri’s February produce offerings, it’s vital to understand both what's in season and the inherent benefits of seasonal eating. During the heart of winter, choices may seem limited, yet a variety of hearty vegetables and storage-friendly fruits are available.
Understanding Seasonality
In Missouri, February is characterized by cold temperatures and a landscape deep in winter's grip. Seasonal eating aligns with the seasons—spring, summer, fall, and winter—and the natural harvest cycles. In winter, one can expect to find produce that withstands the cooler climate. Individuals can look for the following vegetables that are in season:
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Leeks
Potatoes
Fruits are scarce this time of year, but stored apples from the fall harvest remain a staple.
Benefits of Seasonal Eating
Eating seasonally benefits both the consumer and the local economy. Fruits and vegetables consumed in their season are often more flavorful and nutrient-rich, supporting a well-balanced diet. This practice supports local producers and reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance food transport. Moreover, seasonal eating encourages a diverse diet as one's meals change to reflect the produce available throughout the different seasons.
Seasonal Produce of Missouri in February
February in Missouri offers a variety of seasonal produce. Shoppers can expect hearty vegetables and a selection of winter-hardy fruits that are perfect for cold-weather meals and nutrition.
Vegetables in Season
Cabbage and greens like kale and spinach thrive during Missouri's chilly February. Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and beets are readily available, often stored from a fall harvest yet still fresh. Leeks, onions, and garlic provide aromatic flavors for a wide range of recipes. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli (how long does broccoli last?), Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower are also in season, excellent for roasting or in soups. Celery (how long does celery last?), herbs, and mushrooms can be found, offering earthy notes and textures to dishes, while peas start to make their appearance towards the end of the month.
Cabbage
Greens (Kale, Spinach)
Potatoes
Broccoli
Garlic
Kale
Leeks
Onions
Beets
Brussels Sprouts
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celery
Herbs
Mushrooms
Peas
Spinach
Turnips
Fruits in Season
Though the fruit selection is more limited, February still sees some citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits available in Missouri. These citrus fruits, sourced from warmer climates, offer a refreshing zest and a boost of vitamin C during the colder months. While local fruit options might be scarce, these imported fruits become a valuable component of seasonal eating in Missouri.
Lemons
Oranges
Grapefruits
Flavor Pairings and Usage
In the month of February, Missouri offers a select variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that can enhance dishes with their peak flavors. Careful pairings and cooking methods can bring out the best in these ingredients, creating dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious.
Vegetable Flavor Enhancements
Broccoli: To accentuate its earthy taste, broccoli pairs well with garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil can brighten up the flavor. Broccoli is suitable as a side dish or in soups and salads.
Soup: Incorporating broccoli into soups alongside potatoes provides a comforting and hearty flavor. Add garlic and herbs for depth.
Salads: Fresh broccoli contributes a satisfying crunch to salads. Combine with kale and a lemony dressing for a refreshing side.
Winter Squash: This sweet and nutty vegetable complements spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Roasting winter squash with herbs and garlic enhances its natural sweetness.
Side Dish: A simple roasting with olive oil, salt, and pepper emphasizes the squash's flavor, making for a delicious side.
Kale: The robust nature of kale makes it ideal for wilting in warm dishes or massaging with dressing in salads. Pairing with citrus fruits like grapefruit provides a tangy contrast to its bitter undertones.
Salads: Toss kale with a citrus-based dressing and add-ins like nuts (how long do nuts last?) or seeds for a textured and flavorful salad.
Fruit Flavor Pairings
Citrus Fruits: February's citrus, such as lemon and grapefruit, bring a bright freshness to both sweet and savory dishes.
Lemon: A versatile fruit that can enhance the taste of almost any vegetable, particularly broccoli and kale.
Grapefruit: The tartness of grapefruit contrasts nicely with the sweetness of winter squash, adding a refreshing flavor note.
Fruit Salads: Citrus fruits can be the star of a winter fruit salad, or simply a complement when mixed with other seasonal fruits.
When using Missouri's February produce, the use of complementary flavors and appropriate cooking techniques is key to creating balanced and appealing dishes.
Missouri's Seasonal Recipes
In February, Missouri's seasonal bounty is celebrated with an array of recipes that are both warming and inviting. From rustic savory dishes that showcase root vegetables to sweet indulgences using late winter fruits, Missourians enjoy a rich variety of foods during the colder month.
Savory Recipes
Missouri's winter harvest lends itself to hearty soups and stews. A favorite recipe is the Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potato Soup, which combines the earthiness of roasted sweet potatoes (What wine goes well with sweet potatoes?) with the rich, nutty flavor of broccoli. Here's a simplified recipe structure:
Roast sweet potatoes and broccoli with a touch of olive oil and seasonings until caramelized.
Blend the vegetables with vegetable stock and season to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with roasted seeds for added crunch.
Sweet Dishes
Winter in Missouri is not complete without sweet desserts crafted from seasonal fruit. A popular choice is the Apple and Pear Crisp, a comforting dessert featuring a cinnamon-spiced filling and crunchy oat topping. It exemplifies the simplicity and warmth of February's home desserts:
Layer sliced apples and pears in a baking dish.
Mix oats (how long do oats last?), flour, butter, and spices for the topping.
Bake until golden and the fruit is tender.
Preservation Methods
Missourians often preserve their seasonal produce to extend its use. Canning and making jams or jellies are popular methods. For instance, a sweet potato can be preserved as spiced sweet potato butter, which pairs wonderfully with fresh biscuits or as a spread.
Prepare a puree from cooked sweet potatoes, adding spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
Cook down with sugar and lemon juice until thickened.
Can using sterilized jars to seal in the flavor and extend shelf life.
Seasonal Growing Tips
In Missouri, February marks a time for preparation and strategic planting for both vegetable gardens and fruit agriculture to ensure a bountiful harvest throughout the year. Gardeners should be mindful of the state's diverse regional climates when planning their February activities.
Vegetable Cultivation
In February, Missouri gardeners can commence the cultivation of cool-season vegetables that can endure the remaining winter conditions. Lettuce, for instance, is an ideal candidate due to its frost tolerance and low-maintenance nature. Lettuce can even grow with a light snow cover, making it a perfect vegetable to plant during this month. The application of soil amendments, based on soil test results, is crucial during this period to set the stage for successful growth.
Recommended cool-season vegetables to plant:
Lettuce
Spinach
Kale
Soil preparation:
Conduct soil tests.
Apply necessary soil amendments.
Fruit Agriculture
For the fruit growers in Missouri, February is not a month of planting, but rather of maintenance and preparation. Pruning is essential for the health of fruit trees and should be carried out with quality equipment to remove any diseased plant parts and mummies. This helps in preventing diseases and pests from carrying over to the new growing season. Gardeners should invest in a good pruning saw, hand pruners, and loppers.
Pruning checklist:
Inspect fruit plants for mummies and disease.
Invest in quality pruning tools.
Prune as needed to improve plant health and structure.
Where to Buy Seasonal Produce
In Missouri, February presents a unique opportunity for consumers to explore various outlets that offer seasonal fruits and vegetables. The markets transition between winter storage produce and the very beginnings of spring harvest.
Local Markets
Local markets in Missouri serve as key players in providing fresh, seasonal produce. During February, they typically feature storage crops like potatoes, apples from the previous fall, and hearty greens from cold frames or greenhouses. These markets, often referred to as farmers' markets, are usually held weekly and are a place where shoppers can directly support local farmers and artisans.
Kansas City River Market: Operates year-round, offers a variety of winter produce.
St. Louis Soulard Market: One of the oldest markets in the state, maintains a selection of local goods during the off-season.
Supermarket Selections
Supermarkets in Missouri have a dept dedicated to fruits and vegetables, which include both in-state and imported produce to ensure year-round availability. In February, the produce dept offers a mix of international items and stored local goods.
Organic sections: Often contain Missouri-grown produce that's in season, which may be limited in February.
In-season imports: Provide variety to the diet when local produce is not as abundant.
Farm to Table Options
The farm to table movement in Missouri emphasizes direct purchasing from local farms, which can be realized through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs or farm stands. Some farms might still have winter produce like squashes and root vegetables, as well as hydroponic or greenhouse-grown items.
CSA shares: Allow consumers to subscribe and receive a portion of the farm's produce regularly.
Local farm stands: Offer the freshest, most seasonal items directly from the source, albeit with more limited winter options.
