Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Ask a Farmer!

It is often the case that we overlook the obvious. There is normally a simple, and expedient solution to problems laying within 10 feet of us at all times that we neglect to use in most situations that we find ourselves in. We as a culture love to find these little shortcuts and exploit them. They are recurring themes in our magazine articles, on cable TV shows, and even blog posts. So if you are looking for a helpful hint, look no further! Here is a little tidbit that is so simple you may have been in plain sight, without your notice: When you are at the farmer's market and you are curious how to prepare a new vegetable variety, cut of meat, or food product, ask the farmer for a recipe!

See I told you it was painfully obvious, and utterly simple!

How often have you asked, "what kind of vegetable is this" or "what do you call this cut of meat" at the farmer's market? More importantly, once you found out you were holding a garlic scape, or a piece of ossobuco have you followed up to find out how to prepare it? New culinary adventures are just within reach, that you may have passed up. Just think, your local farmer has probably prepared all the products at their booth, at their own home to great results. Many of the farmers I know are also fantastic cooks, who have access to great fresh food and are constantly coming up with amazing recipes to feed their family every day. Unlike the modern grocery store experience, farmer/producers have an intimate knowledge of their products and are more willing to share that know-how. Also adding a new recipe or expanding your knowledge of new foods makes you a better cook. Asking for recipes at the local farmers market will not only add to your food encyclopedia, but instruct you on how to cook with the seasons, and cook what is grown in your local area.

So next time you have a chance, ask a farmer!
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Tuesday, June 14, 2011

To Market!


One of the original of bastions human civilization is the marketplace or bazaar. The open air farmer's market is the forerunner of the modern mall and even online retailers. Producers coming together in one spot to sell their wares to help meet the consumer needs of a local populace is almost as old as agriculture and commerce itself. As small traditional farmers it is our pleasure to be participating in so many great farmer's markets this year. If you haven't been out to one of these communal gatherings, now is a time to pack a little cash and a basket for food and head out to one close to you!

If you are looking for us, these are locations that currently feature Stone Cross Farm and Cloverdale Creamery products!

St Matthews Farmers Market at Beargrass Christian Church 4100 Shelbyville Road Louisville KY 40207 Saturdays, 8 am to 12 noon 2011
Dates: May 14—October 8

Douglass Loop Farmers Market at Douglass Boulevard Christian Church in the Highlands 2005 Douglass Blvd Louisville, KY 40205 Market Times: Saturdays, 10am – 2pm Regular Season: April 16 - Sept. 24 Fall/Holiday Season: Oct. 1 – Dec. 17

Lexington Farmers Market at Blue Moon Farm's Garlic Booth, outdoors in Cheapside Park near the Old Courthouse, Lexington, KY – Saturdays – 7:00 am – 3:00 pm

Lexington Farmers Market at Blue Moon Farm's Garlic Booth, Southland Drive near Slone’s Market, Lexington, KY – Sundays – 10:00 am – 2:00 pm