dipping my toe into the local, sustainable, real food thing, need info on farmers markets

[Anonymous]

I've been Giant, Costco and trader joe;s all the way.. but have been inspired to think more about eating local, sustainable, real food. Haven't been to a farmers market in years.. what can I expect to get there? I'm in Silver Spring, and need to stay close to home, so what are my best bets? TaKoma park? Silver spring? What should I be shopping for there? How are the meat producers? Any tips, ideas you can share will be most appreciated!

[Anonymous]

Have a search for your local farmer's market. I know there's that seasonal roadside stand at Jones Mills and East West Highway, iirc there's one Saturdays on Ellsworth (not sure if it's year round), and there's one at Bethesda ES every Sunday.

You might also look into joining a CSA.

[Anonymous]

I'm in VA so I can't advise you as to where to go in MD, but agree with PP that good starts are your local farmer's market and looking into a CSA. There might also be a co-op up in your area, I think.

Figure out what's most important to you. Is it local food? Is it organic or pesticide/hormone-free food? If you don't have an unlimited budget, what are your priorities?

I'd say start by just browsing your local farmer's market every week. Occasionally buy something that looks good. Say hi to the farmer. After a few weeks, I've found that they recognize repeat customers. You can slowly figure out if you like that farmer, their produce and prices.

We go to the Farmer's market in Falls Church and can buy almost everything - fruit, veggies, dairy, bison, beef, chicken, pork, baked goods (both to take home and on the spot croissants and crepes), homemade sausage, pasta and salsa, fresh flowers, homemade soaps and dog biscuits and wine.

This looks like the webpage for your local farmer's market: http://freshfarmmarkets.org/farmers_markets/markets/silver_spring.php

It's fun to explore!

[Anonymous]

Takoma Park is on Sundays. Silver Spring is on Saturdays. Neither one has a terribly affordable meat vendor though they are high quality.

[Anonymous]

Do you have a chest freezer? are you planning on one? It will make your effort much less costly.

[Anonymous]

Browse, interact with the farmers and ask them questions! They will be your best bet for specific information. For instance, I have a beef/lamb vendor that I love, and I know I can ask them "What exactly is an LA-style short rib?" or "How would YOU cook this?" or "I want to grill/roast/braise, what piece would you suggest?"
I also highly recommend South Mountain Creamery.