Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Virginia's August markets! As summer's golden days begin to fade, a bountiful harvest awaits. Discover a cornucopia of fresh, local produce that will tantalize your taste buds. From the humble eggplant to the exquisite fig, Virginia's markets offer a culinary adventure unlike any other. Let's explore the flavorful treasures that this season has to offer.
Market Freshness Galore
1. Eggplant Extravaganza
Let's begin with the versatile and delightful eggplant. Whether you roast it until golden and tender, grill it for smoky char, or transform it into a creamy dip, this purple jewel of the garden is a must-have in your kitchen. Explore the array of shapes and colors available at the market and let your creativity soar.
For the ultimate eggplant experience, try this simple yet effective prep tip: generously salt eggplant slices and let them drain in a colander. This process draws out excess bitterness, resulting in a richer flavor and firmer texture when cooked. Trust me, it's a game changer!
2. Fig Frenzy
Up next, the succulent fig. These nature's candies are a true summer treasure, perfect for savoring on their own or elevating your culinary creations. From pizza toppings and crostini spreads to fresh salads and decadent desserts, the versatile fig knows no bounds. This past weekend, fig season was in full force at the market. It's clear that farmers had made way for these sweet delights and you can enjoy them through September. My personal favorite way to eat these beauties is an unexpected yet divine combination of figs, bacon, and blue cheese.
3. Pattypan Paradise
Summer squash is abundant to say the least, with many varieties to choose from. Next time go for the pattypan squash - nature's tiny adorable work pf art. Prepare them as you would any other varieties - stuffed with savory grains then broiled, marinated with your favorite vinaigrette then grilled, or simply sautéed with garlic, herbs and butter. This summer gem is packed with flavor and adds a whimsical touch to any gem.
4. Greens Galore
No market haul is complete without an array of fresh greens. Choose from mesculine mixes, crisp red leaf lettuce, or hearty greens, Fredericksburg's markets offer a kaleidoscope of options to add freshness and vibrancy to your meals. Kale and collard greens are my go-to this time of year. These nutrient-packed vegetables offer a world of flavor possibilities. Stewed with loads of seasoning and aromatics is a classic way to prepare them but we're not basic so you know it's time to creative in the kitchen. Try making crispy kale chips in the air fryer for snacking, a hearty salad with loads of lemon for lunch or even stuffed with sausage, rice and simmered in a summer tomato sauce. These greens deserve a starring role in your kitchen. Remember - the possibilities are endless.
5. Crispy Cabbage
Crunchy, versatile, and packed with nutrients, cabbage is yet another must this summer. With one head you can have cole slaw for the bbq, a savory side of stewed cabbage and tomatoes for dinner and a lovely low carb topping for a lunch salad, burrito bowl or soup. Don't underestimate the humble cabbage! Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this crisp Brassica is a nutritional powerhouse.
Five More Items to Add to Your Pantry
As you explore the market stalls brimming with seasonal delights, don't forget to add these 5 versatile ingredients to your shopping list. These ingredients will help you save time, layer flavors like a pro. Here's part 11 of our pantry series to add these five items to your pantry:
Krustez Pancake Mix - For me it's got to be Krustez. When I don't have the engery [or ingredients] to measure I reach for the Krustez. Perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts or impromptu pancake cravings.
Madras Curry Powder - Madras curry powder is a classic Indian spice blend that originated in the city of Madras (now Chennai). It's known for its balanced flavor with a moderate level of heat. The exact blend can vary, but the core ingredients are coriander, fenugreek, tumeric,. chili peppers, cumin, mustard seeds and black pepper. Not only do i use this spice when cooking Caribbean or Indian cuisine I also tend to add a touch to anything I'm frying for hint of exotic flavor.
Rice flour - Made from finely ground rice this popular gluten-free alternative to wheat flour and is widely used in Asian cuisines. It's light, delicate texture and slightly swet flavor works well for thickening sauces, tempura batter or other fried foods, baking gluten-free cakes and other pastries.
Vanilla beans - These long and slender pods of a tropical orchid are typically dark brown when dried, with tiny, black seeds inside that contain the concentrated vanilla flavor. Vanilla beans are highly prized and rightfully so, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 per ounce. While they may be an investment, their rich flavor is worth it. Maximize your use by soaking leftover pods in vodka or rum for homemade extract or by infusing sugar for elevated baked goods.
Bucatini pasta - It's origins highly debated Bucatini has become synonymous with Rome, especially in the iconic dish Bucatini all'Amatriciana. Named for its hollow center, this long pasta is a pasta lover's dream, perfectly capturing rich sauces and flavors. It's my go-to for creamy carbonara!
Until Next Time!
Before I let you go I've linked a few of my go-to summer recipes. They're scattered throughout the blog section of my site so I thought it'd be nice to have them all together in one place!
1.) My Flaky & Fullproof All Purpose Pie Crust - My bulk pie crust recipe is perfect for fruit pies. Too hot to turn on the oven? Save this recipe for the holidays.
2.) Hey It' Been Awhile But Welcome August - This post features my pickling liquid for pickle chips & onions, tomato & wax bean salad, AND my sumer salsa recipe [all the way at the bottom]
3.) As Seen on TikTok - My go to fresh fruit pop tips and recipes.
4.) Hi July! - Get in on my Hibiscus Sun Tea before Summer is over!
5.) Welcome June... - Grilled Caesar Salad, need I say more!
You can look forward to more recipes to come, like my cream cheese frosted blondies and go-to carbonara 😉 In the meantime, contiue to eat well my freinds!
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