As daylight hours wane and the calendar year wraps up, many farmers in Western North Carolina let their fields begin to rest. This sacred time of year is filled with breaks from school, gathering loved ones together to share dishes passed down through the generations, taking a much needed rest (especially for farmers), and surviving … Read more
As we inch closer to the holidays and the official start of the winter season, we are drawn to gather around hearths and heartwarming stories, crafts and bright candles, music and mulled beverages, and, of course, nourishing meals. Whether you’re the one hosting a gathering or attending someone else’s holiday festivities, there are plenty of … Read more
Give the gift of local this holiday season! Farmers tailgate markets have begun their annual holiday markets and they are welcoming the arrival of dozens of new artisan and craft vendors. While you’ll still be able to find some of your favorite seasonal produce, holiday markets can be your one stop shop for unique, thoughtful … Read more
Not sure what to do with all those leftovers? After hours of preparing meals, don’t let what’s left go to waste! Get creative and revive them with the help of some delicious locally grown goods like cabbage, mushrooms, turmeric, and more, so your holiday leftovers can take on a new life of their own. Have … Read more
This year’s holiday season may feel different for many in our region. While our landscapes have changed forever, we have learned that we can rebuild, we can rely on one another, and we can survive alongside each other, even if we are very different. Traditionally, Thanksgiving has been about abundance, gratitude, and the harvest season. … Read more
Have these weird times without clean running water gotten your tummy upset? Or, do the upcoming stressors of the holidays have your stomach in a bunch? Prepare yourself for the holiday meals season with light and easy-to-eat foods you can have at the ready in case you (or your kids) find yourself feeling under the … Read more
As the days become chillier, warming up with a comforting soup becomes commonplace. Soups have stood the test of time and are found in virtually every culture. A big pot of soup can feed us for days or be easily shared with friends and neighbors, building connection and care for ourselves and each other. It … Read more
With schools starting back up and many of us still without clean running water, preparing weeknight meals may be more of a challenge than usual. Savor the changing season and the last of the warm-weather crops with a few super simple meals your kids (and you) will love. Cheesy quesadillas make a quick supper that’s … Read more
As we move further into the fall season, one like any other we have experienced, apples reach their prime for picking. Apples in autumn just make sense – the earthy red, orange, yellow, green, gold and brown colors of all their different varieties reflected in the changing leaves paired with quintessential fall flavors. Apples can … Read more
While this time of year is usually brimming with late season crops, warm fall-inspired soups shared with friends and family, and farmers market filled charcuterie excursions on the Blue Ridge Parkway, we are grappling with a very different reality for ourselves, our communities, and especially in our kitchens. Nearly everyone in this area has been … Read more