Food Matters
Last week at the market, I asked Ryan from Pura Vida Fisheries, a native Vermonter, for some recommendations for things to do in Burlington when I’m there in December. His answer? Visit Al’s French Fries. A few times a year as a child his family would go to the "city, " but all he remembers is what a treat those extra crispy fries were.
It made me reminisce about the summer I went whale watching on Cape May. I was nine, and we didn’t see any whales, but I didn’t care, because we got to have sandwiches on a boat! (I vividly remember ordering the sandwich from a kiosk, which was pretty novel at the time, AND that there was an option to get dried oregano sprinkled on top of it. Whoa! Gourmet.)
As Ryan said: “food matters.”
I’m not going to attempt my own extra-crispy fries at home, but you could, using some of the gorgeous russets from Madura Farms. Or grab some Purple Majesty from Halal Pastures Farm, meadow butter from LeRoux Trading Co, and elevate your spuds with this excellent brown butter mashed potato recipe, which might be a good add to your Thanksgiving table.
And who can go wrong with sweet potatoes? Visit any of our farms to seek out these nutritious and versatile tubers. Zeena Bakery will be back at the market with her delicious spices, so get your hands on some za’atar and try these tahini roasted potatoes with za’atar. Or, go sweet with your sweet potatoes and make these sweet potato brownies. Looking for syrup for the recipe? Head to Maplebrook Creamery.
My friend Jodie is visiting all the way from New Zealand this week, and in between all the sightseeing we’re finding lots of time to cook together. I can’t wait to use the panini press I just scored at a thrift store — it’s in great condition, and makes melty, toasty sandwiches a breeze. I’m thinking market sourdough bread, Crawford cheddar from Aux Bons Fromages, caramelized onions (courtesy of Madura), and sun dried tomatoes from Doc Pickle. Maybe I’ll even make nine year old Celia extra happy and put some oregano on top.
This time of year, I'm always seeking out ways to insert apples into my savory dishes. Is it just me, or are the apples particularly delicious this year? The Golden Russets, available at both Titusville and Mead are insane! I'm eager to use them to make this recipe, a seasonal twist on a BLT, with arugula and thyme jam. R&M, has your nitrate free bacon, as do Letterbox and Goode & Local, also here this week.
If I'm writing a lot about sandwiches, it's because Hudson Valley Breads is back this week. Are you hooked on Clare's fabulous loaves yet? Do. not. miss. this. vendor.
With the temps dropping this week, time to add a new market-driven stew to your repertoire. This one, ticks all the boxes.
And as the holiday season approaches, consider picking up one of the stunning handmade dried wreaths from Titusville, sure to brighten up your home. You know what will definitely brighten your home on Thanksgiving? This luscious cranberry curd tart.
A special shout out to all of you beautiful souls who made the second week of our SNAP donation drive such a success. Let’s keep it going this week!
Kindness matters, too.
See you at the market.
