September Pantry: 5 Seasonal Fruits And Vegetables To Buy

September marks the glorious arrival of custard apples in markets across India. With their rough green exterior and intensely sweet, creamy white pulp, sitaphal is one of the most anticipated seasonal fruits of the post-monsoon season. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium, custard apples are naturally cooling for the body as humidity levels fluctuate. Enjoy them fresh on their own or fold the pulp into traditional rabri and ice creams for an indulgent seasonal treat.

While raw jackfruit is available through parts of the summer, September brings a fresh flush of tender kathal that is prized for its meat-like texture. Often referred to as vegetable meat, young jackfruit readily absorbs rich spices, making it a favourite for slow-cooked regional curries and dry stir-fries. It is exceptionally high in dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals, offering a hearty, satisfying meal option as the seasons begin to shift toward cooler autumn days.

September signals the peak harvesting season for plump, ruby-red pomegranates. Bursting with antioxidant-rich arils, anar is celebrated for its ability to boost immunity, aid digestion, and revitalize energy levels. The tart-sweet juice and crunchy seeds add both vibrant colour and complex flavour to seasonal salads, raitas, and festive rice dishes, making it a versatile staple for your early autumn pantry refresh.

As one of the quintessential monsoon-into-autumn gourds, snake gourd thrives during September. Characterised by its long, curved, striped green exterior, padwal is exceptionally light on the stomach, highly hydrating, and rich in dietary fibre and essential minerals. In traditional regional kitchens, it is frequently sliced and tossed into dry stir-fries with grated coconut and minimal spices or simmered in soothing lentil stews, offering gentle nourishment as the weather cools.

September brings the harvest of fresh, raw peanuts still encased in their damp, earthy green shells. Unlike dry roasted peanuts, fresh seasonal peanuts have a soft, crisp texture and a naturally sweet, nutty flavour. They are typically boiled with a pinch of salt to create a wholesome, comforting street snack or shelled and tossed into regional poriyals and poha dishes. They provide a rich source of plant-based protein and healthy fats to support your energy as autumn arrives.