Jacksonville Magazine: The owners of The Bread & Board offer their tips on shopping summer farmers markets
Summertime means there’s plenty in season—but heading to the market without a plan means you often miss out on the best of nature’s bounty. Dwayne Beliakoff and Johnathan Cobbs, co-owners of The Bread & Board, share their tips for shopping summer markets.
GET THERE EARLY
Most farmers start their market days very early—typically around 5 or 6 AM. “Getting there early not only provides you the best selection available, but it also allows the vendors to sell out faster and get back to their farms,” says Beliakoff. “You can still find some good picks later in the day, especially if the items are in peak season, but there is never a guarantee. I recommend going right after breakfast, which gives you plenty of time to start planning dinner!”
BUY IN-SEASON INGREDIENTS
“It’s all about fruits at the farmers markets during the summer,” say Beliakoff and Cobbs. “Look for unique varieties of melons and stone fruits, such as local peaches and nectarines, that are in season from mid-June through the end of August. Summer months are also wonderful for zucchini, and yellow and tender heirloom squash varietals such as pattypan, burpee limelight and zebra, which are ideal for grilling or pickling. Melons and stone fruits like peaches and nectarines are often available this time of year along with zucchini, and different varieties of squash.” They also advise looking for Kirby cucumbers, which lend themselves to pickling.
CHECK PRODUCE FOR RIPE-NESS
Your intended use and timeline for using the produce will determine what to look for in the product. “It’s okay to buy ripe–but not overly ripe–fruits and vegetables when stocking up for the week. You’ll want them to last in the refrigerator or pantry without spoiling or getting too soft,” says Beliakoff. Avoid peaches that give too easily to the touch, unless you intend to cook or use them the same day of purchase. Select berries that are firm and have a “pop” in your mouth because they’ll last three-to-four days. Salad greens, kale and collards should be fluffy and un-wilted, as you’ll need to rinse and dry them before use.
“If your tomatoes, fruits and greens don’t smell like what you imagine them tasting like, then they aren’t ready,” says Cobbs. “A good tomato smells like it was just picked and will have a sappy, green essence balanced with warm sweetness.”
Also, don’t purchase too much during your first few visits. “Only buy what you can manage to eat and/or use to feed your family and friends, as farmers market goods can be slightly more expensive than store-bought items. You are essentially paying for locality and freshness and will be bummed if you have to toss everything before you can enjoy it. Start slow and build up your buys a little each weekend.”
GO LOCAL
When choosing which market to attend, try to pick the one nearest to your neighborhood. The more support a market gets, the more likely it is that more farmers will want to supply it. “You can also make an awesome field trip out of visiting a local farm that allows you to pick the produce yourself or that is open to the public,” says Beliakoff. “You can not only talk to the farmers and staff, but also see exactly where your food is being grown. Congaree & Penn is a great example that comes to mind. It offers farm tours that explain the importance of farming sustainably in the community, as well as provides an incredible amount and variety of unique goods available in northeast Florida.”
DON’T BE SHY
If a vendor isn’t already offering samples, ask for one. Farmers are often happy to oblige. “Just like chefs, these folks are extremely proud of their hard work and products.”
It’s okay to ask about the process, where the meats are handled and whether they are frozen or sold fresh. “Saturiwa Trading Company attends various farmers markets throughout the city during the month. The company offers great produce that is locally sourced, as well as Florida-raised meats that range from rabbit to chicken to beef. You can also find local grits, honey and specialty goods at its posts. It’s a unique shopping experience and absolute must-visit if you see their big, orange trucks out!”