Exploring the Delights of the Farmer’s Market: A Journey into Seasonal Produce
Last week, after a long hiatus, I ventured to the largest farmer’s market in the neighborhood.
Held in the church parking lot, this farmer’s market seems to grow in scale with each visit. While more vendors are selling ready-to-eat items, the true essence of the farmer’s market lies in its fruits. It’s always a joy to decide which ones to buy while sampling.
Currently, it’s the delicious season of Cara Cara oranges. Having previously made a failed selection, this time I entrusted the task of choosing the tastiest ones to the shopkeeper, who picked out three for me.
By the way, Cara Cara oranges are known for their distinctive appearance and flavor:
Appearance:
- Pinkish-red flesh akin to pink grapefruit.
- Bright orange, slightly pebbly rind.
- Round to slightly oval shape, measuring around three to four inches in diameter.
- Spongy white pith underneath the rind.
Flavor and Texture:
- Seedless with 10 to 11 segments of tender, juicy flesh.
- Delightful blend of sweetness and berry-like flavor.
- Low in acidity, making them ideal for snacking and juicing.
- Vibrant pink hue when cut open.
Uses:
- Commonly used for juicing, thanks to their sweet flavor and vibrant color.
- Enjoyed fresh as a healthy snack.
- Added to fruit salads, green salads, and various desserts for color and flavor.
- Used in sauces and incorporated into dishes featuring poultry, seafood, or vegetables.
Nutritional Value:
- A medium Cara Cara orange (around 150 grams) contains 80 calories, 19 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, negligible fat, and approximately 82 milligrams of vitamin C, which is about 91% of the daily value.
Exploring the farmer’s market not only introduces one to seasonal delights like Cara Cara oranges but also provides a deeper connection to locally sourced produce and the community. It’s a journey worth embarking on time and time again.