In the Midwest, I spent my Saturday mornings at the neighborhood Farmer’s Market spoiled by the vast selection of farm fresh vegetables, colorful fruit and rows of fresh flowers. My first experience at a Phoenix Farmer’s Market ten years ago was, in comparison, a bit disappointing with the number of booths selling purses, clothing and candles outweighing the actual food that was available for purchase.
Today, introducing the organic food craze to us Phoenicians, the Arizona Community Farmers Markets has developed a variety of weekly food markets that feature Arizona grown vegetables, fruit, meat, and specialty items including jams, honey, salsas, cheeses and a lot more. From Tempe to Carefree and Ahwatukee to Avondale, Friday through Sunday you can find what you’re looking for and things you never thought about at one of their ten Farmers Markets.
There’s nothing like having a glass of wine handed to you to taste early on a Saturday morning. And it doesn’t end there. As you stroll these Farmer’s Markets you gain a better appreciation for the small business owner who is trying to promote their goods all the while you benefit greatly from taste testing everything from barbecue sauce and goat cheese (complete with actual photos of the donating goats) to chocolate truffles.
Definitely try the WildChild Red or the One Night Stand at the Pillsbury Wine booth, learn how Arizona raw honey from Made by Bees can tackle your allergies, and take home pork red chile or chicken chipotle tamales from the Tamale Store. Discuss how to grow your own vegetables and herbs in your own backyard with sisters Rebecca and Sarah Kidwell of the Farmyard and chat with the kids who work on the urban gardens located in South Phoenix and other neighborhoods in the Valley as part of the Tiger Mountain Foundation. Before you leave pick up a lunch of pork or brisket sandwich from Pork on a Fork and tortilla soup from Kissed with Fire.
To get the most out of your visit to the local Farmer’s Market follow these simple tips. For the best selection of produce, show up early. Bring your own bags and a rolling cooler if you plan to be there for awhile. Lastly, bring change and small bills, but if you need to one credit card can pay for all your purchases.
Bring your spouse, friends, kids and pets. It’s a fabulous opportunity where neighbors can mingle and try the best local products. You’ll find that these markets offer unique and healthy choices that will satisfy your family and impress your guests.
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