Fall may be settling in, but some summer veggies—from peppers to beans—can still be found this week at area farmers tailgate markets. There has even been a surge of green tomatoes recently. Unfortunately, the surge actually means winter is nipping at our heels. A hard freeze that will put an end to tomato plants is on its way. So, farmers are bringing any unripe ‘maters to market now. Snap them up while you can; they’ll be gone by the end of the month.
Don’t worry, though. The freeze won’t wipe out fall produce. Look for broccoli this week, as well as cauliflower and even snow peas from select vendors. Radishes are abundant, including the popular Asian Daikon. You could say Daikon looks more like a giant white carrot than diminutive radish; depending on the variety, Daikon can grow to three feet! (Our mountain soil keeps them from getting that large here, though.) The variety stores well and can be used in dishes from salads to stir-fries to stews.
Speaking of storing, now’s the time to stock up on potatoes, onions, shallots, and garlic for the winter months. A few hanging garlic braids have already been spotted. The fall culinary creations are made from softneck varieties, which store better than hardnecks. Gaining Ground Farm (Montford Farmers Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market) grows softneck garlic specifically for their beautiful braids. Find them through the end of tailgate season.
October is also the time to think about your Thanksgiving turkey. Vendors like East Fork Farm (Asheville City Market, Montford Farmers Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market) already have sign-up sheets out. Sign up soon before they’re all sold!
On Saturday, October 15, Jackson County Farmers Market’s FAM program will make monograph prints with children from 10 am until noon. The Family Art at the Market program is located under their pavilion each week and is run by the Fine Arts Museum at Western Carolina University.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 27. Black Mountain Tailgate Market will host a benefit tasting event at Pisgah Brewing Company from 4-7 pm. The event will offer tastes of local foods from market farmers, live music, and more. Find information at blackmountaintailgatemarket.org.
Most area markets remain open through the end of the month. Many run through November and into December. ASAP’s websites will share closing details and holiday market dates as next month approaches.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
