Eating food that is fresh and locally grown can have a plethora of benefits for both your health and the environment. Thankfully, Southern California has an abundance of farmer’s markets to take advantage of year-round.
When we eat foods that have been grown locally, it can actually help cut down on environmental pollution. Since the food has not had to travel as far as other produce that may be flown in from another state, or even another country, less fuel and resources are used. As a bonus, this fact can often make shopping at farmer’s markets more affordable since the produce is likely to be cheaper due to an increased abundance of a particular food when it is in season. If you are looking for an extra deal at your local farmer’s market, try shopping in the last 10-15 minutes of the market when farmers frequently discount produce so they do not have to load it back up on their trucks.
Additionally, when we eat produce that is in season, it is being picked when it is ripe which maximizes flavor and nutrient content. Flavorful fruits and vegetables often lead to increased consumption, which can impact an individual’s health positively.
Last weekend, at the fabulous Torrance Farmer’s Market, I picked up some produce that isn’t available year round… okra and bitter melon. Okra is a southern favorite. While many of my California friends have never even heard of it, I can’t remember a summer growing up that I did not eat it. All you have to do is boil it, cut the ends off, throw on a dash of salt, and there you go! My only disclaimer is that if you don’t like “slimy” foods, this may not be your best bet. I think they are delicious! On the other hand, it was my first bitter melon experience. We actually talked with a fellow market goer who gave us some tips on how to prepare this fruit. We learned that cooking bitter melon will make the taste a bit milder. But let’s be honest… a bitter fruit is not what I am used to eating and I have since heard this is an acquired taste. I am planning to make this recipe from the Bitter Melon Council the next time I see them at the market.
Check out your local farmer’s market this week and see what’s in season. Other foods that are harvested in the fall include mushrooms, grapes, garlic, apples, endive, and figs.If you are not sure what markets are available in your area, check out www.ccfm.com for a complete list of all the Certified Farmer’s Markets in California.
Have you ever eaten Bittermelon? Please share how you prepared it…would love to learn different ways it can be prepared.
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