The Gloucester Farmer's Market continues to be amazing

It’s been a few weeks since I went down to the Farmer’s Market, so I couldn’t resist going yesterday to pick up some treats.

Of course, I had to get some of Ma’s Brand Tomato Marmalade, which now comes in three varieties (soon to be four!) – Original, Organic, and “Jeesum Crow” hot (with Thai peppers).  The “fourth-coming” variety is going to be “hoity-toity”, with Gran Marnier! I can’t wait!

Plus, I got some Italian pecorino and parmigiano cheese from Luca Mignogna (of Wolf Meadow Farm).  Those cheeses should be interesting with the marmalade (and with just about anything else)!   They have the delightful combination of a solid consistency (but not too hard) with fairly salty, mellow, and slightly pungent flavors.

Finally, I also bought an apple tart from A.J. King Artisan Bakery, which was well worth the (already reasonable) price – a nice flaky crust, with well-cooked sweetened fresh apples and a crispy topping of brown sugar, cinnamon, etc…  I bought some granola from them the first day of the farmer’s market, and it was really good, so I didn’t hesitate to buy from them again.  Among the many treats they offer, are lavender butter cookies. I tried a sample, and I have to admit that I didn’t taste much lavender, but the cookie was  delicious!

There are lots of other good things available at the market, including fresh veggies, hand-blown glass, all-natural locally ground nut butters, local honey and beeswax products, real maple syrup cotton candy, and lots more – including hot food ready to eat.  Almost all the food sellers have free samples, so you can try before you buy.   If I didn’t have to worry about my weight or my wallet, I’d buy some of everything…

-Fr. Matthew Green