Local Growing Seasons
April 11, 2009
One of my goals for the upcoming Spring, Summer, and Fall is to go to the local farmers markets more frequently. I want to see how much better fresh fruits and vegetables are, compared to those shipped in from thousands of miles away (like tomatoes that are reddened artificially).
I found this great website for Ohio that shows the harvest times of Ohio produce. I wanted to share it in case anyone lives in or around the area.
Also, a question: does anyone have good tips on how to pick the best produce (whether in general or for specific foods)? I’m never confident in my decisions when picking fruits and vegetables. Thanks!
Posted in Other, Stocking the Kitchen |
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April 11th, 2009 at 10:14 am
I think it’s useful to ask at farmer’s markets about items I just don’t know about. In my experience they’re happy to share their knowledge.
Listening to grandma’s wisdom, too, is important for picking ripe produce. My husband knocks on a watermelon to see if it’s ripe–if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. I smell canteloupe, squeeze tomatoes and look for firm, waxy peppers (bell and hot).
April 13th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Epicurious has seasonality info for the entire US.
http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/seasonalcooking/farmtotable/seasonalingredientmap
April 13th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
@Amanda: Thanks for the tips Amanda – I’ll certainly ask next time I go.
@Bowl of Plenty: That map is great – I’d never seen that before. Thanks.