The indoor farmers tailgate markets continue to be a popular attraction during the winter months! Local produce, meat, cheeses, eggs, apples, specialty food products, and more motivate shoppers to flock to winter markets just like tailgate markets in the spring, summer, and fall.
It’s incredibly delightful to discover new vendors and new products at market — and other delicious food to sample and savor. One new vendor is Mooty’s Tomato Chips, who started vending at Asheville City Market in the fall. Mooty’s makes tomato chips: thin tomato slices that have been dehydrated and flavored. They source their tomatoes from local farmers including Whispersholler Farms. Some of the flavors include Parmigiano, Olive Oil and Herbs, and Green Tomato Hot Salsa. Find Mooty’s Tomato Chips at the indoor Asheville City Market.
Green River Picklers – a summer tailgate market favorite – has some new flavors that they are showing off and selling at the indoor Asheville City market. They have a sweet pickle using watermelon rinds that they describe as tasting like apple pie. Green River uses Bradford watermelons, an heirloom variety that used to be one of the more popular watermelons in the early 20th century, but has been brought back by The Bradford Watermelon Company in South Carolina. Green River is also featuring a curried radish pickle, using radishes from Whisperholler Farms. Also check out their spicy green tomato pickles and the sweet and hot pepper relish pickles.
Other finds at Asheville City Market include beautiful Lion’s Mane mushrooms from Asheville Fungi. They say that Lion’s Mane has a delicate flavor and texture reminiscent of crab meat. Sleight Family Farm has fresh pressed wheatgrass juice, pressed Saturday mornings right before the market. Got a sweet tooth? Sweetheart Bakery is selling apple pies and apple bars made with apples from Creasman Farms. Creasman is also at Asheville City Market with apples, ciders, and lots more for sale.
Winter markets take place throughout the region. Check out the “2016 Winter Farmers Markets” page on ASAP’s website on asapconnections.org. As always, you can find information about which farm stands are open and other farms to visit in the winter months by visiting ASAP’s online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
