Enjoying Earth's Bounty: A Journey to Whole Food: Fun & Food at the Chattanooga Market

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Fun & Food at the Chattanooga Market

I can't think of a better way to spend a balmy, Sunday afternoon than to enjoy the fine folks and products at an open-air Farmer's Market. My sister, Kelly, and I strolled through the Chattanooga Market this afternoon to see what local farmers and food artisans produced this past week. As we approached the 1st Tennessee Pavilion, the air was heavy with the most heavenly scent that quickened my step as I began sniffing out the source like some hound dog! (Not one of my prouder moments, but there you go!) The buttery sweet odor was coming from a large, old-fashioned kettle, where the friendly purveyor was popping kettle corn for a salivating crowd. Fortunately, Kelly was able to drag me past the kettle corn to view the real treasures!

We were delighted to have lots of veggies and fruits from which to choose, along with sustainably-raised meats & eggs, bakery goods and prepared delicacies. Even this late in the year, there were many varieties of heirloom tomatoes and bell peppers. The freshly-plucked radishes looked like a bouquet of brightly colored flowers, which I can never resist. Golden Delicious and Pink Lady were among the apple varieties offered. I was disappointed to miss the oyster mushrooms, which sold out early in the day. However, I managed to score a dozen free-range eggs that I plan to use for a simple omelet supper on one of our busy nights. For a taste of the bounty, see the pics below. Enjoy!

If you want to get the best food products and support local farming and other food-producing families, check out the local farmer's markets in your area. With live music, tasty local fare, artists and crafts people, the Chattanooga Market is a fun weekly outing for your whole family! http://www.chattanoogamarket.org/