A longtime favorite Saturday activity of mine is making my way to Kerrytown to visit the Ann Arbor Farmer's Market. A variety of fresh produce and other local products are offered, all of which are high quality and reasonably priced. I love going during the fall semester especially because of all the seasonal items that pop up. Here are some farmer's market must-haves to make your holiday meal the best it can be.
White Lotus Farms: Cheese
A local farm producing artisan breads, cronuts, and various cheeses made from sheep and goat milk, White Lotus always features seasonal flavors. Their chevre is to die for, and currently, orange mulling spice and maple spreads are being sold for the season, in addition to savory ones like garlic herb. Get a few to put out with some bread and crackers for snacking throughout the day.
Specialty Cakes & Pies: Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Pies
All homemade and fresh, blueberry, cherry, apple, and lemon almond varieties are offered, but it is the pumpkin and the pecan sweet potato pies that are necessary for your holiday table. While you're at it, get a $1 pie bite or turnover to munch on while finishing your shopping.
Kapnick Orchards: Breads and Pastries
In addition to cider, apples, and donuts, this orchard always brings a variety of pies, breads, and other sweets. Grab some cinnamon rolls, a pecan cinnamon loaf, a pumpkin roll, or monkey bread for a breakfast you won't have to prepare, or a savory bread to add to your dinner sides. Their homemade apple butter is also a yummy spread to set out next to the regular butter at dinner.
Super Bee Apiaries: Honeys
Looking for that perfect condiment for your cheese board? With an assortment of flavored honey to choose from, you can give guests the freedom to experiment with their appetizers. Flavors such as blueberry, strawberry, cinnamon, and coconut are great choices, but their limited-time seasonal spiced apple honey will really add that fall flavor to your platter.
Srodek's: Kielbasa and Pierogis
A Hamtramck-based authentic Polish food market sets up shop here on the weekends, offering fresh handmade kielbasa, pierogis, stuffed cabbage, and more. While these aren't typical holiday dishes, the kielbasa is a delicious protein option if you're looking to change it up from turkey or ham (make sure to get the holiday style one when it's in season). And don't miss their sweet potato pierogis - these are a great appetizer, side dish, or even dessert.
Fresh Produce
And of course, don't forget your fruits and veggies from any one of the several produce stands. All are guaranteed to be fresh and local, so you really can't go wrong. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes are all in season, so grab some for your dinner recipes. Want to try your hand at a homemade apple pie? Nemeth Orchards and Kapnick Orchards bring a wide variety of apples each week, so pick your poison and go for it.
The Ann Arbor Farmer's Market is nearly a one-stop shop for everything you need to fulfill those seasonal needs. Holiday dinners are something that really can't be beat, and by using the freshest, highest quality ingredients, you'll blow your guests away with an unforgettable meal.