5-July-2014 South of the James Farmers Market

The South of the James Farmers market started around five or six years ago and rapidly became THE market for Richmond, VA.  Many people from my culinary arts classes, even the Chef, talked about it so we decided it was time to check it out.  As I understand, the vendors begin lining up before the sun has risen, and though the market officially opens at 8:00 a.m., it was already crowded when we arrived at five minutes after.  The weather was perfect, cool and crisp, but not cold.  The location is lovely, the James River Park. 

Tater Dave, a good friend, was our first stop yesterday morning.  He and his wife make wonderful breads.  If you stop at his booth, be sure to ask for their newest product, Portuguese Muffins.  Delicious when lightly toasted and drizzled with melted butter.  They are also great with chutney, fruit butters and jam.

Since another bee colony collapsed this winter, we needed to pick up some honey.  Our next stop was Alfredo’s Honey where we purchased a two pound jar of the Wildflower blend for $22.  Then it was on to Amy’s Garden for a nice bunch of beets.   She had the best selection for both root and greens.  

 Along the way we passed some stunning flower displays.  I was particularly attracted to these bold sunflowers, especially the BIG ones.  From the look of the stems, I suspect they were dyed* though I did not ask.    I prefer not to dye flowers except for lightly sprayed carnations in special arrangements.  

Now, what person of Italian heritage could resist this assortment of veggies?  Not us!  We purchased the finocchio (fennel) and some tomatoes. 

Another vendor had a lovely selection of different color tomatoes.  I couldn’t resist a shot of them glowing in the morning sun like polished jewels.  

 
After a quick stop for some shitakes (I really need to start cultivating these!) it was on to Deer Run for  brats, ground beef and soup bones for stock.  We knew this vendor from marketing at the Goochland Farmers Market.   We love their grass fed beef.

 

 

 Our last stop of the day was Poor Georgie’s.  He has the most delicious baked treats of the kind Grandmas make.  Our selection was the s’mores bar.  Gooey, chocolatey goodness just perfect with the morning coffee!  And sold with a smile!

 

All in all it was a nice morning.  Hopefully we can get a vendor spot for the 2016 season.

 *Dying flowers involves soaking them in dyed water until capillary action takes the dyes up the stem and into the petals.  It can leach into your water and affect other flowers in an arrangement.  It can also dye your hands and any fabrics they may come in contact with.  Specially formulated floral sprays do not cause these problems and only affect the exterior of the petals.