ABC's of farmer's markets - AmericaNowNews.com

ABC's of farmer's markets

Many farmer's markets offer fantastically fresh fruits and vegetables at fantastic prices. But getting the most for your money isn't as simple as you might think. Chef Nathan Lyon shares some insider tips for making a trip to the farmer's market a success every time.

Nathan, who travels the country on his TV show "Good Food America," buys all of his produce directly from the people who grow it -- and encourages others to do the same whenever possible.

"I used to work at farmer's markets for over 10 years," says Nathan. "This is the best way to get the most out of your experience."

His ABC's of a trip to the farmer's market:

A: Arrive early and ask a lot of questions. When you arrive early, you have the best amount of volume from which to pick. And when you ask a lot of questions, you learn. So when you go to the farmer, ask how to pick and how to store different things. Also ask different people that are shopping around because they know best. If you're looking for carrots, you're like, ‘Oh, where did you get those carrots?' And they'll show you where to go, and you build community that way.

B: Bring your own bag. You get a lot of clout when you bring your own bag and you don't have to keep pulling down plastic bags.

C: Cash. Not a lot of credit cards are taken at the farmer's market. Bring low bills. Don't pull out the hundred dollar bills or the fifty-dollar bills. And remember, a farmer's markets is not a flea market. Some of these farmer's drive up to four hours to bring you the best produce possible, so try not to haggle. After awhile, when you come week after week, chances are they'll throw in a few extra things for you right at the end, so you don't even have to ask.

Nathan adds that one of the best things about farmer's markets is that they offer samples.

"These farmers are very proud of what they grow. Make sure you sample as you go. Then when you're done making your rounds, you can make your decision," he adds.

Bon appetit'!

Copyright 2012 America Now. All rights reserved.

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