2 September 2025  Harvest Season in Full SwingSeptember marks the start of harvest season in Austria – a time when markets overflow with the treasures of late summer. Plums, grapes, quinces, apples, and pears are typical fruits of this season, joined by berries such as blackberries and cranberries as well as nuts and chestnuts. They bring with them the concentrated energy, sun, and flavor of summer. Traditional Austrian cuisine embraces them all: apples and pears are baked into strudels, plums become sweet dumplings, grapes are turned into compote or wine, and quinces lend their unique aroma to jams or chutneys. These fruits are also paired with savory dishes, served alongside venison or duck, reflecting the season's abundance.Modern Takes on TraditionAustrian food culture is known for its classics, but chefs and home cooks are increasingly reinterpreting them. Recipes such as quince risotto, chestnut risotto, or pumpkin chutney served with wild game represent a growing trend to combine familiar ingredients in innovative ways. Dessert classics also evolve, as with the pear-nougat strudel – a variation of the beloved Apfelstrudel that adds chopped nougat and almonds for richness. For those seeking lighter options, baked pears with yogurt and pine nuts offer a seasonal, lower-calorie treat (recipes can be found easily online).Pears: A Seasonal StarAmong autumn fruits, pears stand out not only for their delicate sweetness but also for their health benefits. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while being gentle on the stomach due to their low acidity. The high potassium content supports hydration balance, and their low glycemic index makes them suitable even for people watching their blood sugar. Keeping the peel on preserves most of these nutrients, making pears a natural, nutrient-dense snack – or the perfect base for warm, comforting desserts.Lilac for a Contemporary TableSeasonal dishes deserve a matching table. The recently introduced "Lilac" edition of the Wersin series by Salzkammergut Keramik, a brand by Gmundner Keramik, brings a soft, modern tone to the dining table. Named after designer Wolfgang von Wersin, who influenced ceramic design in the 1960s, the series revives mid-century minimalism with a contemporary aesthetic. Gmundner Keramik noted in its press release that lilac is currently trending internationally, citing its use by fashion labels like Miu Miu. The pastel tone carries a subtle elegance that pairs well with autumn's warm, earthy dishes, creating a setting that feels both modern and connected to tradition – perfect for a harvest-season meal.Image: Seasonal fruits including pears, plums, and grapes on lilac-colored tableware set from the Salzkammergut Keramik 'Wersin' line by Gmundner Keramik for breakfast, evoking autumn’s harvest and warm seasonal flavors. Photo: © Salzkammergut Keramik |