Malaga’s Top Autumn Fruits: Discover, Buy, and Enjoy Them
Autumn brings a delightful array of seasonal fruits to Malaga. From exotic varieties like persimmons and chirimoyas to classic favorites like pomegranates, the autumn fruits in Malaga are both delicious and packed with nutrients. This guide will introduce you to some of the best fruits to enjoy during this season, explain why they taste so great in autumn, and tell you where to buy them.
Why Are Fruits Delicious in Autumn?
Autumn is one of the best times for fruit in Malaga because the region’s warm summer and early autumn temperatures allow many fruits to ripen naturally under the sun. This results in sweeter and more flavorful fruits, making autumn the perfect season to enjoy Malaga’s diverse harvest. The combination of longer ripening periods and cooler nights gives autumn fruits a rich taste that is hard to match in other seasons.
Caquis (Persimmons)
Caquis, also known as persimmons, originate from Japan but grow well in southern Spain’s climate. These bright red fruits are packed with vitamin A and have a fibrous, sticky texture when fully ripe. They come into season from mid-September to mid-October and are typically sold in cartons of 4, 6, or 12.
How to Eat Caquis
Wait until they’re very ripe (the redder the fruit, the riper it is). Break the fruit open and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Be cautious of small seeds inside.
Chirimoyas (Custard Apples)
Chirimoyas, or custard apples, thrive along the Axarquía coast. Their sweet, creamy flavor combines the tastes of banana, vanilla, and custard. Chirimoyas are rich in vitamins B and C and are in season from mid-September to early February, peaking in autumn.
How to Eat Chirimoyas
Once ripe, chirimoyas become soft and slightly brown on the outside. Slice them open and enjoy the creamy inside with a spoon, but be mindful of the large black seeds.
Granadas (Pomegranates)
Granadas, or pomegranates, are a symbol of southern Spain and are widely available in Malaga during autumn. Their season lasts from late September to November, and they’re packed with vitamins A and C.
How to Eat Granadas
Test for ripeness by checking if the skin feels soft. Slice the fruit open and eat the juicy seeds or use a juicer to extract the fresh juice.
Higos (Figs)
Fresh figs are available from August to mid-September, while dried figs are sold year-round. Figs are a great source of fiber and calcium, and they’re commonly enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes in Malaga.
How to Eat Higos
Fresh figs can be eaten whole, while dried figs are often used in desserts or paired with cheese for a delightful autumn snack.
Uvas (Grapes)
Muscatel grapes are one of Malaga’s autumn specialties. These sweet, juicy grapes are in season from mid-August to late September, and they’re often used to make Malaga’s famous wine or sold dried as raisins.
How to Eat Uvas
Ripe Muscatel grapes are typically brownish in color. Locals recommend buying the “ugliest” grapes for the sweetest taste. You can eat them fresh, dried as raisins, or even pressed into wine.
Where to Buy Fresh Autumn Fruit in Malaga
The best places to buy fresh autumn fruit in Malaga are the city’s vibrant markets. Atarazanas Market, located on the Alameda Principal, is the largest and offers a wide variety of seasonal produce. Mercado de la Merced and Mercado del Carmen are also excellent spots to find fresh, local fruits during autumn.