Seasonal British Fruit in March: As winter gives way to spring, March heralds a delightful array of seasonal fruits entering or peaking in the UK. March is a time of renewal, and the fruits available this month embody the vibrant flavours and fresh possibilities that spring offers.
In this blog post, we will highlight the prominent British fruits in season this March, explore their flavour profiles, suggest what they pair well with, and provide dish ideas that make use of these fruity delights.
We will also take a quick look at some of the best international fruits that complement the seasonal offerings.
British Seasonal Fruits for March
Gooseberries
Gooseberries have a tart, tangy flavour that can range from refreshing to quite sharp depending on their ripeness. The green varieties are more tart, while red varieties tend to be sweeter and juicier.
Pairings:
These berries pair well with sweet ingredients like sugar, cream, and custard. They also complement savoury dishes, particularly with meats like duck and pork, as their acidity cuts through richer flavours.
Gooseberry Fool
A luxurious dessert featuring tangy gooseberries folded into whipped cream, creating a light and airy treat perfect for springtime.
Strawberries (Early Varieties)
Although British strawberries start to mature later in the spring, some early varieties may begin to appear in March.
They are sweet, juicy, and fragrant, providing a quintessential note of summer in the spring.
Pairings:
Strawberries pair exceptionally well with cream, meringue, and chocolate. They shine in desserts, salads, and even savoury dishes when accompanied by balsamic vinegar or fresh herbs.
Strawberry Shortcake
A layered dessert comprising fresh strawberries and whipped cream sandwiched between tender biscuit layers, making it a great celebratory dessert.
Rhubarb
Often classified as a vegetable but treated as a fruit in culinary contexts, rhubarb has a sharp, tangy flavour with a bright, slightly bitter edge. The forced varieties available in March have a stunning pink hue and are generally more tender and sweeter than field-grown rhubarb.
Pairings:
Rhubarb pairs beautifully with sweet fruits such as strawberries and apples, as well as spices like ginger and cinnamon. It also complements rich ingredients like cream and cheese, making it a versatile ingredient in both desserts and savoury dishes.
Rhubarb and Ginger Crumble
A comforting dessert combining the tanginess of rhubarb with warming ginger in a crunchy crumble topping, ideally served with custard or ice cream.
Winter Apples (including Bramley and Cox)
Winter apples, particularly Bramley and Cox, exhibit a range of flavours.
Bramley apples are notably tart with juicy flesh, making them excellent for cooking, while Cox apples offer a balance of sweetness and acidity that shines in both raw and cooked applications.
Pairings:
These apples work well with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, rich ingredients like cheese and pork, as well as nuts and caramel for sweeter dishes.
Bramley Apple and Cider Tart
A delightful pastry that’s filled with sweet, juicy Bramley apples and a hint of cider, offering a quintessentially British dessert.
Mediterranean Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, and Grapefruits)
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits provide a refreshing burst of flavour, with oranges being sweet and juicy, while lemons and grapefruits contribute a bright acidity.
Pairings:
Citrus fruits complement seafood, fresh herbs, and dairy products beautifully. They enhance salads, desserts, and marinades, adding depth and brightness to dishes.
Citrus and Pomegranate Salad
A refreshing salad combining segments of sweet oranges and zesty grapefruits with vibrant pomegranate seeds and a light dressing.
Best International Fruits in Season in March
While British fruits are at the forefront of seasonal offerings, several international varieties also provide exciting options for flavour enhancement and menu diversification.
Mango
Mangoes are lush and sweet, with a hint of tartness, offering a tropical flavour that adds freshness to dishes.
Pairings:
Mango pairs well with coconut, citrus, and spices like chili. It enhances salads, desserts, salsas, and even savory meals such as curries.
Mango Salsa
A vibrant salsa combining chopped mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime, ideal as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.
Pineapple
Pineapples have an incredibly sweet and tangy flavour, paired with a juicy, fibrous texture that adds freshness to dishes.
Pairings:
Pineapple pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and tropical flavours such as coconut. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.
Pineapple Fried Rice
A delicious side featuring jasmine rice stir-fried with pineapple and assorted vegetables, enhanced with soy sauce and spices.
Seasonal British Fruit in March presents a fantastic opportunity for chefs and culinary professionals to utilise an array of seasonal British fruits that are fresh and vibrant, perfectly suited for spring menus. From the tangy notes of rhubarb and gooseberries to the sweetness of early strawberries and apples, these ingredients not only enhance flavour but also bring colour and creativity to your dishes.
At Four Seasons Fruiterers, we pride ourselves on providing the freshest fruits and produce to enhance your culinary repertoire. For more information on our seasonal offerings, get in touch: 01793 683299.
Embrace the incredible flavours of March, and impress your guests with the best that Britain has to offer!
If you have enjoyed this update on the seasonal British fruit in March, See our March seasonal vegetable and salad update here
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