Seasonal Guide to Kelowna Fruits and Vegetables

Kelowna’s Rich Agricultural Harvests from June to December

Kelowna, British Columbia is well-known for its vibrant agricultural sector, particularly its fruit orchards and vegetable farms. The region’s climate and fertile soil make it ideal for a variety of crops. Here’s a general guide to what fruits and vegetables are typically available in Kelowna from June through December:

June

• Fruits: Cherries start to become available in late June.
• Vegetables: Lettuce, spinach, radishes, and green onions are common.

July

• Fruits: Cherries are in full season, and early varieties of apricots and peaches begin to appear.
• Vegetables: Carrots, beets, broccoli, and cabbage are typically harvested.

August

• Fruits: This is peak season for stone fruits—apricots, peaches, and nectarines are abundant. Plums also start coming in.
• Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and cucumbers are widely available.

September

• Fruits: Apples and pears come into season. Late plums continue.
• Vegetables: Corn is usually at its best, along with a continuation of tomatoes and cucumbers. Fall crops like squash start appearing.

October

• Fruits: Apples and pears are plentiful.
• Vegetables: Pumpkins, squash, and Brussels sprouts are in season. Harvest for many root vegetables like carrots and potatoes begins.

November and December

• Fruits: Late apple and pear varieties are still available.
• Vegetables: Storage of root vegetables continues, and winter crops such as kale and winter squash are available.

These are general trends and can vary slightly depending on the year’s weather patterns and other factors. Many of these fruits and vegetables are also featured at local farmers’ markets, which are a great way to explore the region’s produce.

Cherries: The Juicy Gems of Early Summer

Cherries are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of delicious recipes, ranging from sweet desserts to savory dishes. Here are some cherry recipes that you might enjoy trying:

1. Classic Cherry Pie

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• A dash of almond extract (optional)
• Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract.
3. Place one pie crust in a pie dish, add the cherry filling, then top with the second crust. Seal and flute the edges.
4. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.

2. Cherry Clafoutis

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups pitted cherries
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla, and whisk until smooth.
3. Arrange cherries in a buttered baking dish and pour the batter over them.
4. Bake for about 45 minutes until set and golden. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

3. Fresh Cherry Salsa

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted and chopped cherries
• 1/4 cup minced red onion
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Season with salt and adjust lime juice as needed.
3. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to blend the flavors before serving.
   Great with chips, tacos, or grilled meats.

4. Cherry Sorbet

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Cool the syrup completely.
2. Puree the cherries with the syrup in a blender until smooth.
3. Chill the mixture thoroughly, then freeze it in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Cherry Almond Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• A dash of almond extract (optional)
• Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

These recipes should help you enjoy cherries in a variety of ways, whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or looking for a fresh, savory twist.