Despite snow on the ground, shoppers are getting out to winter farmers tailgate markets! Word on the street is that if you want to get kale, you need to get there early as produce vendors are selling out fast! In addition to kale, look for turnips, carrots, Kohlrabi, sweet potatoes, Daikon radishes, winter squash, baked goods, meats, cheeses, eggs, body care products, and more.
What was the biggest surprise for market shoppers this weekend? Seeing strawberries for sale! McConnell Farms had hanging potted plants of strawberries that they have been growing in their greenhouses. These summer goodies were for sale at the Woodfin YMCA Indoor Tailgate Market along with McConnell’s other winter products including apples, cider, and ginger.
Speaking of the Woodfin market, they report that more than 40 vendors are participating every week, and that you will find everything you need to fill your pantry. New vendors to that market include Lusty Monk Mustard, Juice Asheville as well as GalloLea Organics and their homemade pizza kits. Asheville Fungi’s Mushroom Central are on hand with their amazing mushrooms ready to add to your winter stews. Round out your meal with a nice red wine from Addison Farms Vineyard!
Asheville City Market has a variety of produce for sale this winter with an interesting offering from Jake’s Farm. Jake’s has dehydrated kale for sale. The packets are good for eating on-the-go or camping (if you’re one of the brave ones camping in the winter). Mountain Man Preserves is a new addition to Asheville City Market. They offer an assortment of locally sourced jams, jellies, and apple butter. And what better way to enjoy these wonderful preserves than fresh-baked bread. Simple Bread is a regular vendor at Asheville City Market, spring through fall, and they have signed on for the winter version of the market.
There are plenty of other winter markets open now. For a list of these markets, visit the farmers market section of asapconnections.org or at our online farmers market calendar.
Fresh at (Winter) Markets This Week
