Written by Alicia Jordan, Boots on the Farm Consulting, LLC
Are you heading to the farmers market this month? Here are some tips for making the best of your trips during November!
Go Early for the Best Selection: The market opens with the freshest produce and the widest selection. Arriving early means you’ll have access to the best of what’s in season.
Bring Your Own Bags: Many markets encourage reducing waste, so bringing your own reusable bags makes shopping easier and more sustainable. Heavier bags are ideal for those delicious but bulky root vegetables!
Ask Questions: Farmers are happy to answer questions! Whether you’re curious about how to store your purchases, what pairs well together, or new ways to cook a particular vegetable, farmers often have great tips and recipes.
Sample and Explore: Many vendors offer samples, so feel free to try new things! You might discover a new variety of apples or taste a jam that becomes your new favorite.
Plan Ahead: Think about what you want to make for the week and shop accordingly. November’s vegetables are perfect for soups, stews, and roasted dishes, which you can prep in bulk for easy, seasonal meals throughout the week.
November Market Staples
The following vegetables, fruits, and other seasonal items are abundant in November markets. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for and how to enjoy each one.
Root Vegetables
What to Buy: Carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, turnips, parsnips, and radishes
How to Enjoy: Roast root vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. They’re great on their own or mixed into a warm salad or soup.
Squash and Pumpkins
What to Buy: Butternut, acorn, spaghetti squash, and pie pumpkins
How to Enjoy: Squashes are versatile – you can roast, bake, or puree them. Butternut squash soup is a fall classic, and spaghetti squash can serve as a low-carb alternative to pasta.
Brassicas
What to Buy: Kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage
How to Enjoy: Roast Brussels sprouts for a crispy treat, or use kale and cabbage for hearty salads and stir-fries. These veggies hold up well in colder weather and can add a nutritious crunch to any dish.
Apples and Pears
What to Buy: Look for different apple and pear varieties, each with unique flavors and textures.
How to Enjoy: Apples and pears are perfect for snacking, baking, or making warm compotes. Try a simple apple crisp for dessert or add sliced pears to salads for sweetness.
Herbs and Preserved Goods
What to Buy: Fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme, as well as canned jams, jellies, and pickles.
How to Enjoy: Fresh herbs add flavor to roasted vegetables and meats, and preserved goods make delicious pantry staples. Plus, local jams and jellies make perfect gifts as we approach the holiday season.
A Simple Recipe to Try: Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
This roasted root vegetable dish is a delicious, beginner-friendly way to enjoy November’s bounty.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups beets, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup parsnips, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the chopped vegetables in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and golden.
- Serve as a side dish or mix into a grain bowl for a warming, nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at the farmers market in November brings an appreciation for seasonal, local foods and supports farmers as they wrap up the harvest season. Don’t be afraid to try new vegetables, explore a variety of flavors, and ask farmers about their favorites – they’ll likely have great advice to share. So, grab a warm jacket, head to your local market, and bring the season’s flavors into your kitchen. Happy November shopping!
