We tend to think of winter as an off-time for local produce and farmers’ markets. But in fact there are plentiful cold-weather crops and, increasingly, opportunities to buy them directly from the growers.
The options vary region by region. In New England, where I live, the growing season ended months ago, but many veggies and fruits that were harvested late in the fall and early winter are hearty enough to last through the season. Beets, carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and turnips are ideal for slow cooking and roasting which draws out deep, resonant flavors. Apples are still bountiful, including heirloom varieties. These dependable crops provide sustenance and flavor throughout the coldest months. Vegetables with thick skins, such as winter squash, hold up well since the flesh is protected from the elements. Certain varieties are particularly tasty in winter, such as hubbard, kabocha, and the more common butternut squash. Leafy greens are difficult to cultivate in winter, although kale thrives in colder months and a smidge of frost often enhances its flavor.
Your best bet for finding the most local and flavorful pickings? Go to a winter farmers’ market. Here are some items to look for wherever you shop.
Related Posts:
Cambridge Winter Farmers Market (Cambridge, Massachusetts)
Somerville Winter Market (Somerville, Massachusetts)
In Season at the Markets: Late Spring
In Season at the Markets: Summer
In Season at the Markets: Fall
Why Shop at Farmers’ Markets?
6 comments. Leave new
Was just at the market yesterday! Trying some southern recipes. Collards, greens,
Black-Eyed peas…..
Thanks for the great info!!
You can find items at your market that I can only dream of…. Enjoy!
And these are some of my favorite veggies of all seasons
I agree. Winter produce rocks…and roasts.
Thank you, Marjorie, for the beautiful reminder of all the tasty vegetables. I can’t wait to get to the Winter Market!
Lucky you, some good ones in the area!