Maybe you're an accomplished home chef, or maybe you use your oven for extra storage. Or perhaps you've lucked out and all you have to do this holiday season is show up at someone else's table. Either way, it's the time of year when a visit to the Dallas Farmers Market is definitely in order.
Plus, you'll get the warm and fuzzy feeling of buying local from farmers and makers who pour their passion into what they produce, and knowing that your choice to shop from them makes a real impact.
Here's a taste of what seasonal goodies you'll find right now, no matter your role.
Titan of take-out
Dallas Farmers Market has your back. You can impress your guests with good food while also showing off your home state, all without lifting a ladle. Start with a veggie tray made up of root vegetables from The Shed; a relish tray from T-Rex (think pickles, beets, okra, and spiced cranberries); and Viviadi dips that are both vegan and gluten-free. Throw in some hummus and olives from Brothers and fresh sourdough bread from D's Sourdough, and bellies might start filling up before the main meal.
When it's time to really chow down, Stocks + Bondy has a selection of turkey gravy, stuffing, and pie. Cajun Tailgators has a spicier take with fried turkey, while Rex's Seafood Market can ward off the winter chill with hearty soups and chowders.
End everything on a sweet note with freshly baked pies from Pie Crush Bakery and The Proper Baking Company in The Shed, and Everett & Elaine in Market Provisions.
King of the kitchen
Every good cook knows to use seasonal produce for the best results. For a farm-to-table experience at your own table, utilize the Texas ranchers, farmers, and artisans that populate the Dallas Farmers Market with fresh, in-season goods.
As the temps drop, warm up with some homemade soup. Root vegetables (like carrots, turnips, and sweet potatoes) and greens (think kale and spinach) are all readily available this time of year from the local farmers who stock the Dallas Farmers Market. For a full list of what's in season, head here.
Another staple of the fall and winter, hearty chilis turn out even better with fresh meat from local ranchers. In The Shed, you'll find JuHa Ranch, Bois d'Arc Meat Co., 413 Farms, and 3BN Ranch. The Market has American Butchers products in stock, as well. Of course you'll also need freshly ground seasonings, found at Market Provisions.
And don't forget to make it pretty — roots and greens can all be used for garnish and decoration. Head here for some inspiration.
Need a little more inspo? Try out these recipes for a great welcome cocktail, veggie-friendly appetizer, and hearty soup that makes good use of leftovers.
If you're making your own dessert and need some Texas pecans, The Shed has them through North Texas Pecans and Candied Harvest.
Guest of honor
If you're the one being hosted, turn up with a bottle of wine from Eden Hill Winery or Scardello. A bottle of olive oil from Market Provisions or sauces from Klowns on Fire! would also make an excellent impression, as would a beautiful bouquet from Charming at the Market.
Tasked with bringing something? You can't go wrong with a cheese or charcuterie board from Scardello, which can even do a board featuring only Texas cheeses.
Ensure you'll be invited back year after year by showing up with that Texas holiday staple: tamales. El Mero Mero sells more tamales between Thanksgiving and Christmas than they do all year. You can even use the special short-term parking spot designated for tamale pickup — though as long as you're already here, why not look around a little?
