Drum roll for the Dumpling Man...

If you're a regular at the Hastings Farmers Markete, and at farmers markets in general, then you know that in the market world, we tend to refer to vendors not by name but by product.

Did you move the Pickle guy? Where's the sangria lady? How come the charcuterie guy doesn't come every week?

For a long time, the "dumpling man" was one of our most popular vendors. He left due to health issues which required him to cut back on the markets. It's been over 3 years, but questions about the dumpling man's return keep coming.

I am so happy to report that the dumpling man cometh, this Saturday, and every second and fourth Saturday for the remainder of the season.

Asian Farmer Dumplings makes pork, chicken and vegetarian dumplings using local ingredients, seasonal vegetables and meats purchased from local farms.  He also makes dipping sauces like spicy chili oil and his own noodles for ramen as well as ramen broth.

Oh, and his name is Michael Zsn by the way. And he is thrilled to see his longtime Hastings customers. 

Stoneberry Farm is bringing gorgeous squash blossoms this week. You can try this classic fiori di zucca fritti recipe (with any luck you picked up some ricotta from Painted Goat last week) or, for something more delicate (and not fried) try this recipe for squash blossom dolmas packed with fresh herbs.

Pick up some asparagus and red onions at the market this week to make these green-goddess farmers market tacos. 

Silvia's Kitchen is with us this week. We could go on and on about which of her classic Argentine treats to buy or we could share this video of a very official Silvia's Kitchen taste-test conducted by two of our favorite shoppers Samantha, 12, and her great grandmother, Erika, 99. 

SOVA Farms will have their plump fresh chickens whole and in parts. This year they are raising ducks for the first time and it's harder than it looks. Ask about availability at the Sova tent.

The Riolo Team at Compass is sponsoring a coloring event at the market this Saturday. Ask for their location at the market tent.

While you're there, pick up one of our new market bags with the bright orange logo. And, don't forget to wish a happy birthday to our market staffer, Sabine, who turns 18 on market day. Seems fitting, since she has literally grown up at the market since the age of 2. 

The Richard Cortez Band is back in the music tent and this just makes us, well, giddy.

See you Saturday!