Every month we focus on a couple of New York foods and give you recipes & events about those foods. Here's where you can find previous months and the goodies we've brought to the table.

November and December 2008

CELEBRATE THE HARVEST

As the days turn colder and the leaves are falling there’s no better time to celebrate the harvest. And there’s no better place to do so than in New York. We’re home to all of the autumn favorites, including pumpkins, squash, turnips, beets, potatoes and yams. Those are critical ingredients for the best winter soups and stews! — It’s picking time for green winter vegetables. Look for fresh broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale and collard greens.

Our apples are still crisp and flavorful. Enjoy them right away in apple pies, streusels and other desserts, or make apple sauce to be canned or frozen for later in the year. Apples are also terrific in chutneys and sauces. And don’t forget to enjoy a fresh piece of fruit paired with a New York State cheese.

With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, it’s time to check out New York’s local poultry farms. Turkey is low in fat, high in protein and has a high nutritional value. When selecting a turkey you should allow one pound of meat per person. Your local farmer can also provide you with preparation and storage tips.

October 2008

Apples

Nothing says autumn like the taste of a fresh picked apple. Whether you enjoy them sweet and snappy or tart and tangy, you'll be able to find them here in New York State. In fact, New York produces more commercial varieties of apples than anywhere else in the country. You can find an apple orchard in every county outside of New York City, with the greatest concentrations in Wayne, Ulster, Orleans, Niagara, Clinton, Columbia, Monroe, Orange, Onondaga and Dutchess.

There's a good reason for the old saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" Apples offer a variety of nutritional benefits. Apples contain pectin, a fiber that helps with digestion and which may help reduce cancer and heart disease. They're perfect for a quick pick-me-up, too. Apples contain complex carbohydrates that provide a longer, more sustainable energy boost when compared to high sugar snacks and beverages. And best of all, apples contain no fat, no sodium and no cholesterol!

Get your fill of apples with Sample New York's:

How to buy and store apples
How to select the right apple for the right dish
Collection of apple recipies
And a list of this month's apple events