Grapes
Black seeded
Grapes have been a popular fruit for about 6000 years. Black grapes generally have a more robust flavour than the green seeded varieties, and make a natural partner for cheeses. Bonheur is considered the best flavoured of all black grapes. This South African grape has a juicy, sweet flavour, and is available in March and April. Other varieties such as Ribier are available May and June, followed by Black Italia from Italy during July to September.
Uses: Serve with cheeses or add deseeded black grapes to summer salads - they complement crisp salad leaves perfectly.
To store: Keep in the fridge for 2-3 days, best served at room temperature.
To prepare: Wash, eat whole (removing the seeds) or slice in half to remove the seeds.
Green seeded
Seeded grapes tend to be more flavoursome than seedless. Italia, one of the best green varieties, is available from Spain and Italy from late July to mid December, and then from South Africa until February. Vittoria is available from South Africa in February and March. When purchased with a yellow-amber skin colour, both have an excellent muscat flavour.
Uses: Add deseeded grapes to fruit salads, or use to top cheesecakes, lemon tart or pavlova.
To store: Keep in the fridge for 2-3 days, best served at room temperature.
To prepare: Wash, eat whole (removing the seeds) or slice in half to remove the seeds.
Red seedless
Many varieties of red seedless grape are grown in countries such as Mexico, Chile, Italy and South Africa. Flame are crisp small berries. Ruby are sweet and firm, and Crimson are delicious, sweet, juicy, round berries. The Muscat Rosada grapes from Chile have an excellent muscat flavour, a delicate rosé colour, and are available in March and April. Sweet and seedless, these grapes are often popular with children.
Uses: Add to fruit salads, savoury salads and desserts, either whole or sliced.
To store: Keep in the fridge for 2-3 days, best served at room temperature.
To prepare: Wash, eat whole or slice in half.