What’s In Season in November

We may sound like a broken record at this point, but the markets are not over just yet! In Boulder, we keep the party going through November 22 — the perfect opportunity to stock up before a Thanksgiving meal. In Longmont, we close up shop for the season on November 15, giving you only two more weeks to grab some storage crops, thank your farmers, and enjoy a few more Saturday morning carrot cake lattes from Fair Isle Coffee.

Since many other farmers markets have closed out their seasons, you may be wondering what produce is still available in November here in Colorado. The answer is: much more than you might think! In particular, there are plenty of crops that — if stored properly — can last weeks to months after harvest and still taste deliciously fresh. These are the perfect items to get your hands on now so that you can be eating Colorado-grown apples well into spring!

Root Vegetables

You’ve likely heard of a root cellar, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that root vegetables can last for months when stored in a cool, dry place. Our farmers have potatoes, turnips, parsnips, carrots, and more. Perfectly delicious roasted in the oven, puréed, or turned into soups and stews, root vegetables are a staple in any fall and winter diet.

Apples and Pears

The variety of apples at the farmers market rivals none. With classic Fujis, tart Granny Smiths, and heirloom varieties you won’t find anywhere else, don’t stop at the apples you already know. Use this opportunity to taste every variety — you might even find a new favorite! Plus, we’re not quite done with pears yet, so don’t forget to pick up a few pounds as you conduct your apple taste test.

Squash

We know it’s well and truly fall when a rainbow of winter squash appears at the markets. In these last few weeks of the season, we encourage you to try that funky-looking kabocha squash, known for its exceptionally sweet flavor and smooth texture. Or, make a statement with a carnival acorn squash and adorn your plate with its colorful, nutty goodness.

While we’ve mentioned the heavy hitters above, there’s still so much more to be found at the farmers markets this November. Stock up on onions and garlic that will store perfectly through the winter. Grab mushrooms and microgreens for extra flavor and texture. Freshen up a soup with cabbage, leeks, or leafy greens for that perfect cozy vibe.

These final few markets are also the perfect time to pick your farmers’ brains about storage tips, unique preparations, and underrated items they have to offer. With less hustle and bustle than the height of summer, November is the perfect time to get to know your farmers — and to thank them for their year-round hard work.

If the thought of the final market of the season makes you as sad as it makes us, have no fear — Winter Market is still coming up on December 6th and 7th at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. This is the place to get ahead on holiday shopping, buy those final cases of apples, and truly celebrate the beautiful local food community here in Boulder County. We can’t wait to see you there!