Welcome to another What’s in Season blog, and this edition we have a special and exciting focus… cherries! This vibrant fruit has made an early appearance at Market, and our producers and marketgoers couldn’t be happier. As we celebrate the season of renewal and growth, we invite you to savour the sweetness of cherries and explore their diverse culinary uses, health benefits, and find the growers who brought these gems to our stalls ahead of schedule.

Cherries come in a variety of different types and can be either sweet and sugary in taste or tart and tangy. Sweet cherry varieties include Rainier and Bing, and the most common tart cherry variety includes the Montgomery cherry. We’re very lucky to have delicious cherries grown regionally by our producers and brought directly to Market for the Canberra community to enjoy. Our cherries are primarily grown in cool areas with well-drained soils, which ensures optimal growing conditions and results in delicious cherries that you get to enjoy every Saturday during peak season.

Cherries are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fibre. These nutrients support your immune system, assist with digestion, and are great for your heart. Cherries are especially famous for their anti-inflammatory qualities, which can alleviate muscle soreness and arthritis discomfort. It’s a wonderful feeling to snack on something and know that it’s nourishing your body.

Cherries are an amazing addition to various culinary creations, especially baked goods and spring/summer dishes. Their flavour and rich colour make them a perfect filling for baked goods like pies or tarts. Cherry compote elevates pancakes and waffles, while cherry-infused sauces enhance grilled meats. In salads, their freshness adds dimension and cherry desserts like sorbets and ice creams are a refreshing treat during warm seasons. Cherries embody the feeling of spring and summer.