Seasonal Stars: What to Cook with in Autumn

Autumn in the UK brings a shift in the kitchen: leaves turn, mornings grow crisp, and markets fill with produce rich in depth, warmth and heartiness. Knowing what’s truly in season means better flavour, better value, and dishes that feel of the place and time.

From September through November root vegetables come into their own: carrots, parsnips, beetroot and swede deliver earthy sweetness ideal for roasting, steaming or pureeing. Potatoes harvested late summer remain excellent, especially the maincrop types. Kale, cabbage, leeks and Brussels sprouts flourish as the temperature drops, bringing robust greens perfect for braises, gratins or hearty soups. Mushrooms — both cultivated and foraged — add umami and forest-depth. Winter squashes and pumpkins supply softness and richness in texture and flavour. 

On the fruit front autumn means apples and pears at peak ripeness. The variety is generous: sharper ones for cooking, sweet ones for eating fresh or baking. Blackberries linger early in the season; later, cranberries and quince appear. 

Herbs and flavour-supporting plants evolve too: thyme, rosemary, sage, and bay leaf provide backbone in rich sauces, roasted meats and seasonal stews. Garlic and onions remain staples with intensified flavour. 

Using these autumnal ingredients invites menus that comfort and satisfy: think roasted root vegetable medleys, apples poached with spices, creamy squash soups, or kale and bean stews. Sourcing local and seasonal produce not only reduces food miles but ensures freshness and full flavour.

Harness the season’s bounty: let texture, colour and pungency of these home-grown autumn ingredients guide your recipes this term.

Cooking with the Seasons

Learning to cook seasonally not only makes your food taste better, it’s more sustainable and cost-effective too. Our short courses often feature seasonal menus, and we encourage students to get to know local ingredients — many of which we source right here in Devon.

If you’d like to improve your skills in seasonal, home-grown cookery, take a look at our upcoming courses here: ashburtoncookeryschool.co.uk/courses

And don’t forget to tag us in your autumn creations — we love seeing what our alumni and home cooks are making with the best of the season!