The who, what, where site for the Pioneer Valley
Garlic scapes, the edible flower stem of garlic, are the playful, curly green shoot you’ll see at farmers’ markets, farm stands, or in your CSA share this time of year. The scape is pulled from the garlic stalk, allowing the bulb to properly size up. Easily substituted for garlic cloves, scapes are milder and more fibrous, and add more color and texture to dishes. Below, find recipes and preservation tips to make this springy treat last all year long.
By Abby […]
Local mushrooms can be found at winter farmers’ markets and several grocers. This mushroom bake is a popular appetizer for my family gatherings: Use any mild mushroom, preferably oysters (about 2 pints), and a small oven-safe dish. Roughly chop mushrooms and drizzle with olive oil spiked with hot pepper oil. Add salt and pepper, stir, and top with fresh chevre. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 and serve warm on a sliced baguette.
By Abby Getman of Community Involved in Sustaining […]
In my family, the Christmas table celebrates local food just as much as Thanksgiving—every Christmas Eve, the main entrée is a select roast from one of my family’s small herd of cows. For those of you with similar “roast beast” traditions like the Whos in Whoville, order your cut of meat for the holiday table from your local farmer or butcher before it’s too late!
By Abby Getman of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
Find local beef producers here.
Roast Rubs
Dry […]
The Daily Hampshire Gazette. November 21, 2014. By Gena Mangiaratti. Grow Food Northampton’s new executive director is familiar with food, policy and community.
Two Massachusetts maple syrup producers took honors at an annual international maple products contest, held this year in Wolfville, Nova Scotia at the annual meetings of the North American Maple Syrup Council and International Maple Syrup Institute. Sugarmakers from the United States and Canada entered their maple syrup, candy and cream to have them judged based on flavor, color, clarity and density.
Massachusetts came away from the October contest with more awards than any other maple producing state or province, and […]
Daily Hampshire Gazette. November 8, 2014. By Amanda Drane.
The Republican. November 9, 2014. Hugh Robert. Panel discussion, “Our Farms, Our Food: The Future of Local Food in Hampden County” on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
Fresh and frozen local turkeys are widely available in the Valley, but you need to place your order now to reserve a bird for your Thanksgiving table! There are countless ways to cook a turkey, and if you don’t want to go through the hassle of brining, at least give the bird a good rub down the night before with ample kosher salt—it helps keep it moist but textured.
By Abby Getman of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
CISA’s local turkey […]
The Daily Hampshire Gazette. October 23, 2014. By Scott Merzbach. Controversial Amherst law threatens farm education program.
Hard frost has not yet arrived in most of the Valley, and as a result green beans are still coming in strong. They bring a vibrant green color to fall menus and are wonderful additions to fall soups and stews. Blanche beans for a simple (and delicious!) side dish, or for freezing once winter really comes. If you’re serving them plain, don’t over-cook them! Find recipes, preservation tips below.
By Abby Getman of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture
Recipes
Meggin Thwing Eastman’s curried […]