Autumnal farm shop foodie favourites.

As the vibrant hues of summer fade and the crispness of autumn settles in, there’s no better time to visit your local Cornish farm shop. Autumn brings a bounty of produce that not only warms the heart but also inspires delicious meals. From the rich, earthy tones of squash to the sweet crunch of apples, here are some of our top picks for the season.

The versatile squash

Squash is one of autumn’s stars and it comes in various forms, each with its unique flavour and texture. Whether you’re drawn to the sweet flesh of butternut squash or the nutty flavour of acorn squash, this versatile vegetable can be used in countless dishes.

 Consider roasting squash with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt and your favourite herbs. This simple preparation enhances the natural sweetness and creates a comforting side dish. For a heartier option, try a warming squash soup, blending roasted squash with onions, garlic, and a hint of ginger. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying autumnal meal.

Crisp, juicy apples

Autumn wouldn’t be complete without apple and Cornwall boasts a variety of local orchards producing some of the finest. From tart Bramleys to sweet Cox apples, there’s a perfect apple for every palate.

Enjoy them fresh as a snack or use them in your cooking. A classic apple crumble is an easy and delightful dessert that showcases these seasonal fruits. Pair chopped apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a touch of sugar and a buttery crumble topping. Bake until golden and serve warm with custard or cream for a true taste of autumn.

Autumn calabrese

Cornish-grown broccoli is bursting with flavour and nutrients.

It’s delicious simple steamed and seasoned or use it to create a vibrant salad that pairs beautifully with cheeses or grilled meats. Alternatively, whip up a broccoli and Davidstow mature cheddar cheddar quiche. The creamy cheese balances the slight bitterness of the broccoli, resulting in a delicious filling nestled in a flaky crust.

Local cider

Cider is a quintessentially autumnal. Whether you prefer a crisp, dry cider or a sweeter option, there’s something to suit every taste.

Enjoy a glass of chilled cider alongside your dinner or use it as an ingredient in cooking. Cider-braised pork, for example, is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. The cider adds depth and flavour, making the meat tender and delicious.

Enjoying a taste of autumn

What better way to enjoy some wonderful Cornish autumn produce than on a walk along the coast or an amble through the countryside. Whay not prepare a comforting flask of spiced apple cider to take along on your adventures. Simply heat apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves and a splash of orange juice for a warming drink that evokes the essence of the season.

Alternatively, a hearty soup can also be transported in a flask. A smooth pumpkin or squash soup, seasoned with nutmeg and topped with a swirl of cream, is perfect for sipping while enjoying the stunning autumnal scenery. You could always grab one of our homemade sausage rolls to enjoy on the side!

Comforting dinners to warm your soul

Returning home after a day's adventure, now's the time to embrace hearty dinners that warm the soul. Local produce can inspire countless comforting dishes. Think stews, casseroles, and hearty soups.

One of our favourites is a vegetable and lentil stew, packed with seasonal produce from the farm shop, such as carrots, potatoes, and kale. This dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying and budget friendly. Pair it with some freshly baked bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Another comforting option is a cottage pie made with our Red Ruby beef. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends on a chilly evening. 

The final touch: logs for the fire

As the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a fire where you can gather to enjoy the fruits of our autumn harvest. Grab what you need from Boscastle Farm Shop and you’ll have your feet up in front of the flames in no time!

Recipe of the month:

The perfect buttered apple crumble

What’s more comforting than a warm crumble on a cool autumn evening? Gather all the necessary ingredients from Boscastle Farm Shop to create your perfect pud.

Ingredients

For the filling:

1kg apples

2 tablespoons of brown sugar

Large knob of Trewithen butter

Sprinkle of cinnamon

For the crumbbe topping:

100g plain flour

75g Trewithen butter

50g oats

100g brown sugar

Preheat the oven to 200°C/180C Fan/Gas 6.

Wipe the apples, then core and cut into slices. Place in a pan and sweat gently with the butter, sugar and cinnamon until the apples are soft. Pop the mixture into a shallow ovenproof dish.

Rub the butter into the flour until you have a fine ‘breadcrumb’ texture. Stir in the oats and the brown sugar and then sprinkle over the apples. Transfer to the oven to bake for 30 minutes or until crisp and golden-brown and bubbling. Serve with custard or a big dollop of Rodda’s Cornish Clotted Cream