It’s like spring in the winter! Not necessarily for temperatures, but certainly if you’re shopping at winter farmers tailgate markets. Lettuce, kale, turnips, winter squash, and Daikon radishes were all spotted at markets this weekend. In addition, you could also find market staples such as local meat, cheeses, potatoes, eggs, sweet potatoes, and more!
One interesting product that popped up at the Woodfin YMCA Indoor Winter Tailgate Market was the Jerusalem artichoke or sunchoke from Bee Tree Farm and Wildwood Herbal. Not an artichoke, but rather part of the sunflower family, its flower looks like a sunflower and smells like milk chocolate. This crunchy tuber is not usually dug up until cold weather, so Jerusalem artichokes are a great addition to salads during winter months.
Asheville City Market’s first winter market was this past Saturday. The new inside market at the Public Works Building was a hit! Lost Arrow Ranch had an amazing abundance of produce for a winter market including winter squash, cabbage, lettuce mix, carrots, and three kinds of sweet potatoes. Other regular vendors this season will include Farmhouse Beef, Jake’s Farm, Creasman Farms, and many more!
Another market to visit is the Jackson County Farmers Market. This market meets every Saturday through the winter from 10 am to 1 pm at the Community Table in downtown Sylva. Last week was their 5th annual Community Seed Order, but it’s not too late to get in on the discount! Stop by the market this Saturday, January 18, to order in person or contact Jenny McPherson at 828-631-3033 for instructions on ordering online. While at the market, you can find goodies of all kinds including greens, pork, eggs, veggies, herbs and spices, baked goods, soaps, herbal remedies, and an assortment of unique, local crafts.
For a list of winter markets, visit the farmers market section of asapconnections.org or at ASAP’s online farmers market calendar.
Fresh at (Winter) Markets This Week
