Market Life

Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market

Tuesday’s 3-7 pm

 Welcome Boukje to Market Life! 

 

As the weather in DC quickly changes from hot to cold- and back to hot again - and the leaves start to change color, few markers of seasonal changes are as obvious as the offering at the local farmers’ market. While Halloween decorations and pumpkin spice might hit the shelves a little earlier each year, fresh local produce remains the true marker of the seasons.

At the Fresh Tuesdays Farmers’ Market, that change can be seen throughout. The last crates of peaches and tomatoes are standing side by side with apples. The summer squash was dwarfed by winter varieties such as butternut and acorn. Although it was unseasonably warm last week, these delicious fall offerings served as a great reminder that fall has arrived.

For those of you who love Eastern Market but haven’t yet come out to the Fresh Tuesdays Market, I highly recommend you do. This fantastic midweek market, located right outside the main hall, offers amazing fresh local ingredients without the overwhelming crowds that the weekends bring. Though smaller in size, the 10+ weekly vendors offer a wide variety of produce, meats and cheeses; all unique in their products and history. You will find vendors who are “regulars” throughout the DC farmers’ market community side by side with local newcomers. 

One of the best features of the Fresh Tuesdays market is the direct access and communication with the vendors. Whereas the weekend markets can feel rushed, the Tuesday market gives you plenty of opportunity to explore and discuss the products with each vendor. An amazing occasion to learn about their farms and share recipe ideas. It truly delivers the full market experience that makes exploring and consuming local ingredients worthwhile. 

 

Each time I visit this market, something new catches my eye. This week I learned about sweet potato greens and how to cook them, received news that Broadfields

Farm will start offering an 18-week CSA in 2014 and noticed that Peachy Family Dairy is now grilling up sausage sandwiches fresh at the market (Yum!).

Like the seasons, the offerings at the market continue to change. So stop by, explore and enjoy!