As the weather cools in early autumn, some seasonal foods are starting to appear on the tables of residents in Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu province.

Water caltrop

Unpeeled water caltrops. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]

Water caltrops are sweet and crisp when eaten raw. They can also be cooked.

Water chestnut

Raw water chestnuts are sweet, crisp and juicy. They are also used to make soup with pears and Chinese wolfberries.

Lotus roots

Lotus roots can be eaten raw but are usually cooked.

Manchurian wild rice

Manchurian wild rice. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]

Manchurian wild rice is a water plant that is unique to China. It tastes like tender bamboo shoots and is often cooked with meat.

Hairy crab

Steamed hairy crabs. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]

Local hairy crabs will only be available on the market at the end of September due to this year's higher temperature, and those of better quality will hit the market in mid-to-late October, said a local farmer.