Missing Hastings
I’m writing this from my sofa, where I’ve been stranded for the past six-plus weeks, trying to recover from a nagging back injury. I’m resting and have started physical therapy and my family has been wonderfully supportive...but I miss the market! I miss arriving early on Saturday mornings to find farmers busy setting up after long drives from Black Dirt country. I miss greeting each vendor and catching up on the week we’ve been apart. I am sorry not to see patient shoppers lining up by 8:15am to be among the first to choose succulent scallops from Pura Vida or still-warm bagels from DoughCo or their favorite yogurt from White Moustache. I miss hearing live music and watching families eat crepes from Escargot Voyageur or a breakfast sandwich from Fearless Cook Food Truck. I miss your smiles and your enthusiasm for our market family. I hope to be able to rejoin you in the near future but, for now, let's take a dive into the bounty of Saturday’s market!
We're hoping that your re-entry into the busy world of back-to-school has gone smoothly. Why not try this one pot chicken for busy weeknights? You know R&M Farm has the chicken thighs you’ll need. Add a salad made with greens from Thousand Leaf Gardens, carrots and celery from Morgiewicz Produce, and peppers from Sun Sprout Farm; drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar from Agape Premium EVOO. Dinner is served!
And speaking of peppers, they are still plentiful at the market; in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Satisfy your pickiest eater with this Stuffed Peppers with Chickpeas and Cheese dish. Pick up Crawford, a deliciously sharp cheddar, from Aux Bon Fromages. And If this cooler weather is making you think of soup (I know I am!), stop by Grumpy Dumpling for dumplings to go for an easy dumpling soup. You can make both dishes over the weekend to reheat and serve during the week. We’re pleased to introduce new vendor Gira's Garden Hot Sauce this week. You’ll want to pick up a bottle or two to add a bit of heat to any meal.
The aforementioned cooler weather signals that autumn is nearly upon us. We all know what that means: apple season! Orchards of Concklin and Mead Orchards have them in abundance. You’ll want some to eat out of hand and to pack in school lunches. Be sure to snag extra to make David Tanis’ apple kuchen with honey and ginger.
As you may have learned last week, Urban Bohemia routinely sells out at our markets. Please be sure to visit them early for seasonal soups (smoked paprika lentil, anyone?), soba noodle bowls, and more. Ellen, of Northwinds Lavender Farm, is making her once-per-month visit. You’ll want to stock up on all things lavender: eye pillows, candles, even lavender scones! Channery Hill Farm is back with unique, homegrown “stuff you put on stuff,” including Pumpkin Ketchup, Onion Dip, Green Goddess Dressing, and more. Perk up any sandwich with their Garlic Scape Relish. Like everything they sell, most ingredients are from their farm!
Believe it or not...R&M Farm is already taking orders for Thanksgiving turkeys. Make sure to get in the action early!
Please come down to shop for the week, visit with friends, and enjoy live music from Al Indig. While I won’t be present this Saturday, I hope to soon see you at the market!