In Season Now: Take Advantage Of January Produce
We live in a world where we can eat almost anything we want, whenever we want. Strawberries in December? Done. Avocados on everything all the time? Sure thing.
Though this is extremely convenient, it also allows us to stay safe within our cooking and eating comfort zones. There is a big world of produce out there, so why do we eat the same thing all year round? The impermanence of seasons is what makes cooking and eating so exciting!
A great way to grocery shop is to head to the market without a shopping list and be inspired by what looks the most tantalizing. Maybe risk it all and cook with an ingredient you've never touched before. Or, your local farmers market takes out all the guesswork and provides you with in-season produce specific to your locale.
Buying local and seasonal products is not only more environmentally friendly, but it is also more economical for buyer and producer alike. Food doesn't need to travel around the world, and it's simple economics: When there is an abundance of an item, prices drop. Best of all, when we shop and cook seasonally, ingredients are at their most flavorful.
Visit the Pick Your Own website for season-specific charts tailored to your state. In general, here is some of what January has in store for us:
Fruit:
Vegetables:
Seafood: