just a few things that made it home from the market…
Kalex2 | Spinach | Yams | Thomcord Grapes | Bay Leaves | Tomatoes | Onions | Cucumbers | Fennel | Ginger Garlic | Lettuce | Broccoli
With only half the haul on view, this looks like one of the rare over-budget Sundays. I, usually, only go to the market with a twenty, straight from the atm. Some days, I carry more. The problem with that is that I, uh, spend more. There are days when I spend much less, but that’s at 7th + Fig.
I’ve got big eyes and a small fridge. Having a budget and specific weekly needs keeps me from buying every pretty and interesting thing I see. So along with the kale, tomatoes, onions and cucumbers, I get to experiment with a new or daunting vegetable or try a new herb without feeling like I’ve wasted money. And, thankfully, because I don’t buy as much, there’s less opportunity for full-fridge neglect. And when it does happen… *pursedlipsshrug*
n♥
Do you have recommendations for budget shopping at farmers’ markets?
I know that the larger markets cooperate with food assistance programs. And I’ve seen enough news segments on initiatives to bring fresh produce to food deserts in big cities to understand that growers and sellers and other players want this food to be accessible to a broader cross-section of people.
Still, I can’t shake the notion that a farmers’ market is only really for me if I’m willing to spend a small fortune on gourmet snacks and organic flowers, or nothing at all.
Please share your growing expertise.
Expertise, nah. I’ve only been going to the markets regularly for the past couple of years. I think, first and foremost, stay away from the prepared food and organic flowers, unless you can afford it or it’s been budgeted in. I got sucked into the most beautiful sunflowers earlier this year. Six bucks for 3 stems. Yeah, that was the last time for that. I give you a little trial and error in the next post. ♥
Thanks again. I trust your judgment.
You are very welcome.♥