Summertime happens quick in the Tetons. One day it is snowing and the next it is 80 F. I like to use the availability of local food as my metric to when you can finally accept that summer is upon us. The first farmers markets of the year ring in the summer season for all local food enthusiasts.
Another bust night at the People’s Market
For having such an unforgiving climate, we are lucky enough to have three farmers markets in Jackson. The People’s Market, which started June 15, kicks off the season with a wide range of produce, prepared food and crafts. The Jackson Hole Farmers Market in the Movieworks Plaza starts July 7 supplying Jackson with high quality produce sourced weekly from farms in Utah. The Farmers Market on Town Square, the biggest of three, opens for business on July 9, attracting farmers and producers from around the region. Most people who have attended a couple markets have their path planned out ahead of time, swooping in to grab their favorites without browsing all the market has to offer. Dishing is here to help you formulate your new plan this year to make sure you get some of the best producers have to offer.
A place to MEAT up: One of the few hyper local products we can source in our mountain town is meat. “Locally sourced meat is an extremely important part of the local food system,” says Scott Steen co-director of the People’s Market. With barbecues occurring on a weekly basis and freezers that have been depleted from last fall’s hunting season, the markets are a perfect place to stock up on locally raised fare. Lockhart Ranch, Jackson Hole Hereford Ranch, Mead Ranch, Haderlie Farms and Larks Meadow offer beef at either the People’s Market or Farmers Market on the Town Square. You can also find locally raised pork and lamb at Haderlie and Larks Meadow Farms if you are looking to change it up from steak.
Larks Meadow Deliciousness
More Cheese Please: I don’t have a seperate “man fridge” if you will, but if I did, it would be about a 50/50 mix of cheese and beer. Not to be a snob, but the bargain shelf blocks of processed cheese just won’t do either. I need the good stuff. Luckily, there are some great options at both the People’s Market and Farmers Market on the Town Square for just that. Winter Winds Farms offers four kinds of handmade goat cheeses that are perfect for spreading on crakers or just eating by the spoonful. Check out the Hot Shot Chevre for starters. Larks Meadow farms has been cranking out award-winning cheese for a few years now. With a wide selection, you are guaranteed to find something you like. If you are a fan, check out their blue cheese. If tangy isn’t your thing, the Ella is a good place to start.
Pie in the Sky: Few things are more American than apple pie, right? While the selection of apples around the markets is almost nonexistent, we do have tons of great fruit to get your pie on. Check out the Farmers Market at the Movieworks Plaza for the best early season selection of items like berries and cherries, and a little bit later in the season, Utah peaches. “My favorite pie to make has to be a peach and spiced rum pie,” said Sloan Bergien, director of the market and board member of the Saturday market. There are numerous booths at the other two markets selling great pie filling fruit, but be sure to get there early as the berry options are always the first to go. If you don’t feel like making you own, check out Mountain Brand Pies or Green Thumb Nursery at the People’s Market; Wild Flour Bakery at Movieworks Plaza Market; or Mr.Mcgregors Pies at the Town Square market for something to bring home
Tomato starts from Cosmic Apple
Start it up: You can’t get more local than your backyard. Although it is more time consuming than buying your produce, it can be immensely satisfying to harvest your own crops. At this point, though, if your garden hasn’t taken off, or if it has but already kicked the bucket, seeds are not an option. Luckily for you, there are plenty of places with starts at the markets. Scott Steen puts it best: “It’s like growing your own money.” The farmers have a great wealth of knowledge and know the ins and outs of growing in our climate, so don’t be afraid to ask questions on how to get the most out of your purchase. While many booths offer a start or two, check out Cosmic Apple or Green Thumb Farms at either the Town Square or People’s Market for the biggest selection.
Canned Heat: Canning, preserving and jarring have moved beyond the realm of grandma’s blackberry jam to a gourmet outlet for many aspiring chefs. While you will always find your favorite toast accompaniment at the market, there are definetly a few places to seek out offering something different. Daily Roots, which can be found at the People’s Market, offers a variety of preserved delights highlighted by their delicious sauerkraut. Roots Kitchen and Cannery found at the Farmers Market on Town Square and Movieworks locations offer a variety of gourmet jams and sauces. If your in the mood for something spicy stop by the Hole Lotta Salsa booth at the People’s Market and get your fix early before they sell out.
