Look Out For These Hidden Gems At Your Local Farmer's Market
NEWS
By SARAH MOORE
Mixers, Syrups, & Bitters
Find ingredients for cocktail syrups, locally distilled liquors, and unconventional beverages like drinking vinegars, fire cider, and mead.
Ask the owner or worker about their ingredients, as they are often very enthusiastic about their products and will gladly give you a sample to try out.
Condiments
Farmers markets often offer a variety of freshly made options like mustard, salsa, chimichurri, and specialty items like pickled beets, sauerkraut, jams, and dressings.
Mushrooms
Farmers markets carry a wide range of mushrooms, typically more than grocery stores. They also sell ethically sourced options like lobster mushrooms and chanterelles.
Farmers markets are great places to learn about mushroom hunting from experienced enthusiasts. You can even make spore prints to try and grow your own at home.
Berries
Berries at grocery stores are often less fresh, whereas berries at farmers markets are picked at peak ripeness, making them extra soft and juicy.
Special Veggies
Vegetables like purple asparagus, red carrots, and black raspberries are often sold at markets due to their short growing seasons and shelf lives.
Farmers can educate you about how to use them. Many of these produce items are unique, which means they deserve special treatment in the kitchen.
