Love to visit the farmer’s market but intimidated by the produce that is presented? Are those greens supposed to be for a salad or cooked? What is that weird curly stuff and what is the difference between slicing tomatoes and heirloom ones? Not recognizing produce at the farmer’s market shouldn’t stop you from going, or from discovery some great new favorites.
There is no doubt that farmer’s markets can be overwhelming. It can seem as though there are too many choices and that everyone but you know exactly what is what. But if you take a look at the other shoppers who pick up the same things and put them back, you’ll realize that you are not alone.
A good strategy to take is to first stock up on items, fruit and vegetables, that are familiar to you. Vow, though, to try one new item each visit. Pick something that looks intriguing, and then here is the important part, ask.
Most farmers or vendors are more than happy to tell you all about the produce that they sell. They are both proud of their wares and interested in sharing their knowledge. Most people who sell at a farmer’s market are there because they enjoy meeting people.
You can also talk to one of the vendors and ask him or her what the favorite item is and how best to use it. Don’t just stick with the unfamiliar, though. Often, the vendors will have great ideas for new ways of using old favorites.
Some vendors even provide free recipe books and cards, or samples of how to use their products. This is how I learned a new way to use the delicious lemon curd I enjoy, on social tea biscuits with a layer of soft cream cheese underneath.
When you do decide to try something new, only buy a small bit of it, enough to make the recipe or use it as a side dish. This way, if you discover that it isn’t for you, you won’t have wasted your money.