What is Northwest Growers and what is on offer in store?
Northwest Growers is the fresh fruit and vegetables retailer located in Castle Hill, the heart of hills district.
What do you love about Castle Hill and how does Northwest Growers fit into the wider community? What drew you to being a part of the community in the way you are?
We are local and we have been living in this neighbourhood for quite a few years. We have a lot of regular customers and they are friendly, polite and respectful. We feel connected and supported.
What is currently in season that people should be making the most of?
Navel oranges are one of the most popular citrus in winter and packed with essential vitamin C. Local navels are available from May to November, through Winter months. In addition to classic navel oranges, which have thick skins and are rich in orange color, Cara Cara and Easy Peel oranges have become more popular in recent years.
Cara Cara oranges have distinct pinkish-red and orange flesh inside the fruit. Compared to traditional navels, Cara Caras are sweeter, slightly tangy, and less acidity.
Koala Easy Peel Oranges are 100% Australian owned and farmed. What sets them apart from any regular orange on the market is it’s unique, easy to peel skin, easily segmented fruit pieces, juicy but low mess eating. Of course, they are super sweet.
What is one fresh produce item that is in season that people need to know about?
Caulini is a relatively new type of veggie, it comes from Mann’s, a US vegetable producer who brought in Brocollini. The company describes Caulini as ‘Baby Cauliflower’ and it’s getting more popular and affordable in recent years. It tastes like cauliflower but more tender and sweeter, which makes it the perfect veggie for all kinds of dishes. It’s rich in fiber and vitamins and low in carbs.
With this one item, how would you say it’s best served?
Caulini can be grilled, roasted, baked, steamed, stir fried or even eaten raw.
We can simply toss Caulini with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast until golden brown.