Visit the Durham Farmers' Market

I've mentioned the Durham Farmers' Market in a few posts, so I figured it was time to give the market its due with a dedicated post. People across the country are choosing farmers' markets over large groceries stores as the move toward local and seasonal food gains momentum. Durham is no exception as many local restaurants frequent farmers' markets to stock their kitchens and to inspire their ever changing menus (Watt's Grocery being a perfect example).

The Durham Farmers' Market features vendors from around the state offering fresh, seasonal produce, homemade baked goods and local wines, not to mention the arts and crafts. Chapel Hill Creamery offers a great selection of cows' milk cheeses while Sunset Ridge offers buffalo meats in a variety of cuts, including the ground bison I used in my chili.

Even in the colder months, the farmers' market stays open and offers a great selection of winter vegetables as well as the aforementioned meats and cheeses. Most of my recipes have included ingredients from the farmers' market as they tend to work in dishes that are perfect for this time of year (hearty chili, thick soups, etc.).

So definitely check out the Durham Farmers' Market on Saturdays from 10am-12pm during the winter and 8-12 Saturdays as well as 3:30-6:30pm in the summer. You can't go wrong buying local and seasonal ingredients. Even prepared in the simplest way, these products will create delicious meals you can feel good about eating.