I’ve been a little distracted this week with trying to get my Esma Jewelry website updated with my fall line, so today’s post is a little off-topic. I feel it’s still relevant, though, since it involves shopping local. I paid a visit to Bender’s, a nearby produce market, to pick up some delicious fruits and vegetables grown by our local farmers. Sadly, after the whole tomato-slave-labor debacle right here in the U.S. of A., even our food isn’t free from unethical labor practices. But, social consciousness aside, nothing tastes as good as produce picked at peak season right in your area.
The main highlight of Bender’s for me is actually the miniature donkeys they have (hint, hint for those out shopping for my birthday present)… so cute. Next time I will have to snap a picture of them to share. Anyway, here are just a few of the beauties I picked up at the market. I’m most excited about the purple pepper, because I’ve never seen one before, which is why I had to get it.
I’ll be sure to show you all what I end up doing with these. Another great thing about Bender’s is that you can watch their honeybees busy at work. Since honey is most beneficial when it’s produced in your area, the more local, the better.
There really is no comparison to cooking with in-season local produce. I am glad to see that some of the chain grocery stores are starting to carry local produce, but until they start having cute animals, they really can’t compete. If you’re looking for a great resource that tells you what is in season in your area, check out Field To Plate and click on your state.
What are some interesting things your local markets have that you just won’t see at a chain store?