Farmers Markets and CSAs

I love to cook and the corner stone of my cooking always starts with the best produce I can find! If you’re in California, there are likely regular farmers markets in your area where you can get to know the farmers and learn about where your food comes from. The Bay Area has a dearth of great farmers markets! Another great way to purchase farmers market produce is to joint a CSA (Community Support Agriculture) program.

When you become a member of a CSA, you’re purchasing a “share” of vegetables from a regional farmer. CSA members pay for their produce upfront for a period of time (1month – 1 year). This bulk payment enables the farmer to plan for the season, purchase new seeds, make equipment repairs and more. Shares usually include up to 10 types of vegetables and fruits. Some CSAs also offer eggs, chicken and meat at an additional cost. It’s a really great way to support a local farm, eat in season and eat healthy!

My favorite CSA that delivers to the East Bay California is Riverdog Farm, http://www.riverdogfarm.com/. However, here is a link that will help you find a CSA wherever you are in the US, http://www.localharvest.org/csa/

When I’m traveling I love to seek out farmers markets. Above are some pictures taken at a precious market in San Fernando, Argentina (just outside of Buenos Aires, Cap Fed).

• You can find fresh produce picked just the day before – the tomatoes shown above make me want to cook! – Picture #1
• It’s a small world after all! By chance, I happened to meet and have a lively conversation with Kim and Andrew, owners of Table Nectar Catering in Emeryville, CA, http://www.tablenectar.com/. Here they are in the middle of their 2 month tour of S. America. They are sure to return to their catering business with tons of inspiration. – Seen above in Picture #2
• The weekly market above is located right at the San Fernando train stop (Saturdays and Wednesdays) – Picture #3

Who knows where the hunt for local seasonal produce will take you??