Farmer’s Market Stew

The Importance of Eating Foods That Are In-Season & Locally Grown

Check out our recipe for Farmer’s Market Stew that inspires the use of in-season and local food.

Is it here? Is it here yet? No, I’m not talking about your last online order, I’m referring to autumn. You remember that season, right? The leaves changing, cooler weather, and everything is pumpkin. As enjoyable as summer in Northern California can be, I think most North State residents breathe in a deep sigh of relief when that sweet breeze greets us in the morning, and our fall sweaters get to come out of cedar chests.

The changing of seasons is important in many ways. We all enjoy a change in climate, the upcoming holidays, and new decorations to use around the house. More than that, there’s the health benefit that comes from eating seasonally. Studies show that fruits and vegetables in-season retain more nutrients. They are fresh, less expensive than when out of season, and usually don’t have chemicals, wax, or other substances used to preserve freshness.

So, what does eating fresh look like? It looks like being flexible and trying new foods that you might normally skip simply because your go-to fruits are always available at the grocery store. It also means supporting your local farmers.

Purchasing locally grown meat is also important, but for slightly different reasons. Kathy of Divide Ranch says, “I see more environmental benefits from consuming local meat than actual health benefits. Also knowing where your meat came from and how the animals are cared for is important to my customers. I do feel that most ranchers, big and small, are conservation-oriented and incredible stewards of the land. My beef comes from 100% grass-fed free-range steers raised long enough to get fat, so my meat tastes great!” Divide Ranch is in Glenn County, and their meats are available at the Saturday Farmer’s Market in downtown Chico, CA.

Shopping local means you can create amazing meals for your family by learning how to use what is fresh and in season. “Farmer’s Market Stew” is a dish that can be freshly prepared during all four seasons, giving you plenty of options as you transition from month to month.

Farmer’s Market Stew

Serves six to eight

• 1-pound beef or chicken, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 6 cups veggies*
• 3 cups bone broth
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
• ½ teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Using a Dutch oven or large soup pot, braise your protein on medium heat turning it to let it brown on all sides for five to seven minutes.

Pour in your broth and add veggies. Sprinkle in the seasonings. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer for 30 minutes. Check that all vegetables are cooked through and enjoy! This dish can be served over rice or just by itself.