With the tropical temperatures of this year’s summer bidding their final farewells and the first few leaves beginning to crunch underfoot, it is clear that autumn is fast approaching. Whilst you may well mourn the loss of picnics and barbecues, there is plenty to look forward to from a British culinary perspective, with nuts, fruits and game birds all at the forefront of seasonal produce.
The highlight for many will no doubt be the dawn of the wild duck season, which begins on the 1st of September. While mallards tend to be slightly smaller than the average farmed duck, they are packed full of flavour and will be in abundant supply at your local butcher. Grouse and wood pigeon offer a more than fitting alternative and will provide any dish with a gloriously seasonal centrepiece.
For the perfect accompaniment to your game bird dish, look no further than the cobnut, an English strain of hazelnut native to Kent. Popular among chefs, their sweet, nutty flavour combines beautifully with the gamey meat. Chestnuts, while traditionally associated with Christmas, are also now in season. Pair them with sweet scallops for an elegant starter or add them to a risotto for a rich, hearty version of the Italian classic.
For delicious jams and desserts, look no further than damsons. The sweet subspecies of plum begins to ripen in September and makes terrific gin and wine. Elderberries too will maintain a ubiquitous presence across the UK and offer the chance to create a delightful and free pontack sauce. September also marks the return of the native oyster season. Love them or hate them, this luxurious delicacy will feature in restaurants and fishmongers up and down the country.
We’ve gathered together a brief collection of our favourite seasonal recipes for this month that we know you’ll love!
