Don’t think that the Costa Blanca’s summer sun is its best feature. The real magic frequently emerges for those of us fortunate enough to live here year-round when the intense heat subsides and the market stalls are filled with the hearty, rich flavours of autumn!
It’s a seasonal switch that turns a simple shopping trip into a sensory experience. The sights and smells of your local mercado will change significantly as November approaches, moving from the vibrant, juicy summer tomatoes to the earthy, comforting items that characterise the local autumn and winter table.
Prepare to forgo ice cream in favour of the deep, rich flavours that make this the ideal season for foodies on the Costa Blanca!
The Star of the Show: Roasted Chestnuts
Without this smoky treat, no autumnal market haul is complete. The distinct scent of roasted chestnuts begins to permeate town squares and the areas surrounding bustling commercial districts in late October and early November.
These have a strong connection to the Dia de Todos los Santos festivities and are more than just a festive snack—they are a sign that winter is approaching. Seek out the devoted street sellers who are preparing the chestnuts over an open flame in their distinctive perforated black drums or braziers.
- Friendly Tip: As you browse the market, these are the ideal way to warm your hands (and your soul) because they are served hot in little paper cones. They’re extremely hot, so use caution when peeling the first one!
A Drop of Gold: The New Season Olive Oil:
The best time to find the freshest pressings of Exra Virgin Olive Oil is in November, even though olives are harvested all through the late autumn and early winter.
This is the “new harvest oil.” It is fresh, bright green, and intensely flavoured; it is not the bottle you typically purchase at Mercadona. High-quality, freshly pressed oil that is rich in polyphenols will have a distinctive peppery or slightly bitter kick at the back of the throat.
- Market Mission: Visit the booths offering inland products (such as those from the Jalon Valley or small producers close to Alcoy). Purchase a tiny bottle of the novel oil and sample it by drizzling it over a crusty bread slice and seasoning it with salt. It’s gold in liquid form.
The Orange Revolution: Hello, Caquis
Although the Costa Blanca is known for its citrus, the persimmon, a stunning fruit with a fiery hue, is a must-try in the autumn.
Though they resemble tiny tomatoes, these firm, vibrantly coloured fruits have a delightfully sweet, honeyed flavour that is reminiscent of sunlight filtered through an autumn breeze. They are highly versatile and currently in their prime.
- Use them in salads, yoghurts, or even baked desserts. You can also eat them peeled and sliced. This time of year, they are very popular and easily found at all fruit stalls.
Traditional Sweet Treats: Marzipan and Pine Nuts
Keep an eye out for the small cakes connected to the Dia de Todos los Santos, which takes place shortly before November starts, as you browse the pastry and confectionery booths.
- Panelletes: These are small, traditional sweets from the Valencian and Catalonian regioUsually covered in pine nuts, these dense, slightly chewy marzipan cookies are also available in almond, coconut, or chocolate varieties. They are sold eThey can be found everywhere, from specialised bakeries to expansive market stands, and they are rich and delectable.
Almonds, Honey, and Wine: Jalon Valley Jewels
The region’s nut and grape harvests are at their peak if your market trip leads you to the inland valleys, such as Jalon.
Almonds, which are widely used in regional sweets (Turron is nearby) and savoury snacks, grow well in this soil. Pay attention to:
- Local Honey: Wildflower honey from the nearby mountains, frequently offered in big jars or blocks.
- Dates and dried figs are excellent with regional cheeses and are frequently found at the stands that sell dried fruits and nuts.
- Moscatel Wine: Despite the earlier grape harvest, this sweet wine is made from the Moscatel grape and goes well with all the autumn sweets.
Take a moment to look past the trinkets the next time you visit your local market. The true story of the season is revealed by the changing produce, and it is best savoured one mouthful at a time.
Author: Melissa Williams
Hi, I’m Melissa, a creative writer and ESL teacher with a passion for storytelling. I started writing fiction when I was young, and I eventually discovered that I loved performing, working all over the Costa Blanca as a semi-professional singer. I now write articles that I hope will inspire and engage readers by using my creativity. Whether I'm sharing personal insights or delving into local culture, I try to produce content that is relatable and meaningful. working as a creator of events and features.
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