Asheville Welcomes the Flavors of Fall!
As the long days of summer give way to the crispness of autumn, the vibrant farmers’ tailgate markets of Asheville are buzzing with excitement! Locals and visitors alike can dive into a feast for the senses as we celebrate the changing season with a bounty of delicious offerings. From sweet muscadines to hearty fall greens like kale and collards, there’s so much to explore!
Sweet Muscadines: The Gems of the Southeast
One of the stars of the late summer market is the muscadine grape. These incredible grapes are a native treasure of the Southeast and have been cherished by North Carolinians for generations. Unlike the familiar grapes found in grocery stores, muscadines are a bit larger with thick skins and hearty seeds. Their flavor is a unique blend of sweet and tart, making them a delightful treat all on their own.
You can find these juicy gems at various markets, thanks to local farms like Lee’s One Fortune Farm and Tuckers Garden. Whether you eat them fresh, incorporate them into a scrumptious pie, or even whip up some homemade jelly, muscadines are a must-try this season!
Pawpaw Season is Winding Down
Have you tried a pawpaw yet? This delightful seasonal fruit is making its last appearances at our markets. If you’ve missed out, be sure to swing by the East Asheville Tailgate Market or check out Creasman Farms at the Asheville City, North Asheville, and West Asheville markets for your chance to grab this unique offering. They have a creamy, custard-like flavor that’s truly one-of-a-kind!
Fall Greens are Back!
With the cooler temperatures setting in, it’s the perfect time for hearty greens to make their comeback. Many tender greens like lettuce and spinach find it challenging to thrive in the summer heat, but as the weather cools, they start to flourish. And let’s not forget, some greens even become sweeter as winter approaches!
You can find a diverse selection of fall greens at our local markets, including collards, kale, and different varieties of head lettuce. Seven Seeds Farm is offering collards and romaine at the Asheville City Market, while Flying Cloud Farm brings in the first harvest of kale at both the River Arts District and North Asheville markets.
Discover the Wonders of Sweet Potato Greens
Have you ever heard of sweet potato greens? These vibrant green leaves are sprouting from the familiar sweet potato tubers and are just beginning to gain popularity in the U.S. Often celebrated in Asian and African cuisines, sweet potato greens possess a softer texture and milder flavor compared to kale or spinach. They’re versatile and can easily be swapped in most recipes calling for cooked greens!
To whip up a delicious dish with sweet potato greens, simply trim the leaves and wash them thoroughly. In a frying pan, melt some butter or ghee, sauté diced onions and garlic, then add the greens until they wilt. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding honey—what a delightful addition!
What Else is Fresh at the Markets?
Aside from muscadines and sweet potato greens, the markets are bursting with a variety of seasonal treats, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and corn. Tantalizing options like kale, eggplant, fresh herbs, as well as an array of farm-fresh meats and eggs, are available for anyone looking to relish local flavors.
Embrace the Season at Your Local Market
Now is a fantastic time to visit the tailgate markets in Buncombe County! They’re not just a place to shop, but a vibrant gathering spot celebrating our local farmers and the amazing produce they bring to our tables. Check out the Local Food Guide for the hours and locations of these incredible markets, and get ready to embrace the flavors of fall!
