Wednesday, June 11, 2014

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

"Eat Local" is a pretty trendy phenomenon right now, which I am totally on board with. I think it's fantastic that people want to know where their food and ingredients are coming from. I also love that communities are willing to come together and support the hard work of farmers. 

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

Both of my favorite restaurants in the Top 30, Trophy and Kimbap use this approach. Farmers Markets play a large role in "Eat Local," especially for home cooks that want to support the movement. Even better, a lot of these local farms are practicing sustainable growing, and trying to minimize their carbon footprint. Delicious produce and helping the environment, what's not to love?!?!

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

These are all reasons why I've included Farmers Markets on my Top 30 list. When I am in town, this is my favorite Saturday morning activity. I love to meet and chat with all the farmers and vendors, learn about seasonal produce, listen to cooking and preparation tips and of course, taste all the goods!

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

Summer is the best time for Farmers Markets because the colors of the produce are vibrant. I swear a few weeks ago, when I walked through, I could smell the red from all the strawberries!

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

There is more than just produce at the Farmers Market though, I pick up fresh NC seafood, organically grown meats and poultry, eggs, fermented foods, honey and even a locally made bitters and soda from a company called Crude. This is one of my new favorite stops, especially now that the weather is getting warmer. This past Saturday, I tasted some of their Watermelon and Basil soda - so refreshing!

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

Another favorite vendor is Locals Seafood, a company dedicated to bringing seafood from North Carolina fisherman inland (aka to me)! The last few weeks I've picked up soft shell crab, which we all know is a new favorite. The season is about over, so now I am getting excited for NC shrimp and red snapper! Now I pre-order and pick up at the Market to ensure I get what I want. Amazing how fast their supply goes on Saturday morning!!

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market 30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

Usually by the time I have left, I have a good portion of my grocery list for the week. I have thoroughly enjoyed attending the Western Wake Farmers Market recently, so plan on frequenting that market this summer. However, the Durham Farmers Market is a very close second, mostly because they have food trucks and music playing!

As Michael Pollan says, "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants."

I will be back tomorrow with a sweet and salty salad.

30/30 - #17 Farmers Market 30/30 - #17 Farmers Market

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