“Berry” fresh news!
By Kate Wu
Strawberry season has arrived in Hong Kong! From December to April, these sweet, juicy berries are at their best. Whether you eat them fresh, use them in desserts, or make jam, now is the perfect time to enjoy strawberries.
According to Gem-Pack Berries, Farmers hand-pick these delicate berries, ensuring they are ripe and sweet for your enjoyment.
To celebrate this season, I’ll introduce some of the sweet strawberries you can find in Hong Kong:
Goseul Strawberries:
To start off, Goseul strawberries are a summer variety from South Korea known for their sweet and savoury taste, as well as their ability to survive in hot conditions. In Hong Kong, the climate is perfect for the growth of these strawberries, so locals get to enjoy them throughout the year. These strawberries are easily recognizable by their small, cone-shaped form and bright red colour, which makes them not only tasty but visually appealing.
Fanti Strawberries:
With their delightful sweet-sour flavor and soft texture, Fanti strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in Hong Kong. Often described as vibrant, these strawberries feature a smooth and shiny surface that makes them a popular choice for presentation in various dishes. Furthermore, Fanti strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy snack option. Locals enjoy them fresh, often paired with whipped cream or yogurt,.
Camarosa Strawberries:
In contrast, Camarosa strawberries are known for their larger size and firmer texture. While they also have a sweet taste, they carry a richer berry flavor with a hint of tartness. Their deep red color and flossy finish make them appealing as well. Moreover, Camarosa strawberries have a longer shelf life that reduces food waste and ensures quality over time, making them especially popular with buyers. They're perfect for dipping in chocolate, or adding to fruit salads, providing a fun treat for any occasion.
Arihyang Strawberries:
And the most luxurious of them all: Arihyang strawberries are a premium, larger-sized Korean variety that really stand out. Often described as “monstrous”, these berries can be up to 50% larger than the standard type and feature a long, conical shape. They also have a firm crunchy texture that prevents bruising, making them easy to transport. Furthermore, these juicy strawberries are perfect for eating fresh or using in delicious desserts like pies and sorbets. With these unique qualities, Arihyang berries are in high demand in the HK markets.
During this peak season, local markets are filled with all these choices and more, attracting both residents and tourists to go and enjoy. Here are some places you might find these sweet strawberries:
Farms:
Long Ping Strawberry Farm
Law’s Strawberry farm
Phoenix Farm
Markets:
Yau Ma Tei Wholesale Fruit Market
Wet Markets
Reclamation Street Day Market
In conclusion, this is the strawberry season in Hong Kong, bringing a tasty variety of flavors for everyone to enjoy. From sweet Goseul and Fanti to rich Camarosa and fancy Arihyang, there is a berry to suit every taste. Local farmers work hard to bring us these delicious fruits, making it the perfect time to visit nearby farms and markets. So whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a dessert topping, now is the best time to experience the deliciousness of Hong Kong strawberries!