Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

Soup’s on! Area farmers tailgate markets are bubbling with options for your soup pot this week.
Under the weather? Grab all the ingredients for chicken noodle soup! Markets have lots of onions, garlic, shallots, celery, and carrots now. Look for rainbow colored carrots for extra brightness and color sure to help you feel better. Greens are also abundant. Throw in kale, bok choy, or spinach as vitamin-packed additions. Of course, many vendors offer local chicken. Hominy Valley Farms currently has Poussin, a young, tender French-style bird. Find Hominy Valley at Asheville City Market. And, pick up noodles from pasta vendors selling at Asheville City Market and North Asheville Tailgate Market.

Want something rich and creamy? Buy Butternut squash to make a simple puree. Pair with apples for that extra something special. Or, try making a cream of broccoli or cauliflower soup. Find Romanesco cauliflower from Ten Mile Farm now (Asheville City Market, Montford Farmers Market). The variety’s green and spiky appearance mimics a seashell.
Thinking beef stew? Firefly Farm has their special grassfed Devon beef, which is similar to Angus. They only offer it a couple of times a year, and there is a waiting list. However, this week they promise some will be available for everyone. Find Firefly at the Montford Farmers Market and Asheville City Market.
Warm up while you shop, too, with hot chocolate, tea, and coffee. Several markets are also heading indoors for the winter.
Wednesday, November 2nd, the Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market moves to 449A Pigeon Street in Waynesville. The market is held Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 am until noon and will run in the new location through mid-December. They promise new veggies and more crafters.
November 5th marks the first indoor Saturday for the Jackson County Farmers Market. Their winter spot is located at the Episcopal Church in downtown Sylva at 18 Jackson Street and will house the market Saturdays 9 am-noon through the spring.
Asheville City Market South has announced it will remain open Wednesdays this November with new hours: 2 until 5 pm. Also this month, look for a representative from Winter Sun Farms CSA at Asheville-area markets. You can sign up right at the market for your share and be able stock your fridge with local food all winter long.
For more details about market moves, hours, special holiday events, closings, and more, watch for a new posting right here in the coming days!