Spring is upon us. Cooks, diners, and planters are getting itchy.
So thought I'd offer up a few photos of some lovely lettuces and microgreens from one of my favorite local farms,
Walnut Ridge Acres.
I met the folks who run WRA, Becky and Bob Portmann, at one of
Nectar's Dinner Clubs, where they were the purveyors of chef Julie Francis's featured ingredient (beets that night, IIRC).The Portmanns supply produce to Honey and Nectar, something like 11 local restaurants all told, and also sell to the public at the Hyde Park and Wyoming Farmers Markets. Or you can visit their farm near Wilmington, which I've done several times (it's best to call or email ahead to make arrangements). Fine people. Unbelievable produce. They also raise chemical- and antibiotic-free chickens.
With three hoop houses, WRA grows year-round. These are actually photos I took back in Feb. when we stopped by after my birthday. In mid-winter, there is nothing better than being able to get produce this crisply fresh and full of flavor.
The sunflower shoots are my fave so far, but Becky Portmann tells me people go crazy over her popcorn shoots. Can't wait to try those too!
So, whether you're a home cook or a chef (ahem), a gardener or a farmer's market afficianado, enjoy the season!
