By Chef Christina Martin
As the summer at the shore comes to an end and we put away our beach towels and flip-flops, the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air. The farmers markets we have covered over the spring and summer have had an excellent season with minimal weather disruptions. Heading into fall, there are some new fall farmers markets popping up.
These markets are great for purchasing fall produce such as winter squashes, dark leafy greens and root vegetables. Additionally, you will find homemade craft items that make wonderful holiday gifts.
Below are the farmers markets coming up in our area:
Fall Bazaar at Reed’s Farm
Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
5075 Spruce Ave., Egg Harbor Township
This bazaar will host vendors with sustainable and upcycled goods, plants, homemade items and more.
They will have family-friendly events such as face painting, pie-eating contests, games, costume contests, and a DJ. Reed’s Farm makes delicious bakery items, has a coffee bar on site, and their indoor market is stocked with pre-made foods such as jams, spreads and cheeses.
There are also candles, jewelry, pottery, and more inside the market. Reed’s Farm is also an animal sanctuary so there are many animals to see on your visit to the market.
Margate Fall Funfest by the Bay
Sept. 28, 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Sept. 29, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Amhurst Avenue and the Bay
There will be free Jitney service. Just look for signs.
In its 23rd year, this free festival offers food, drinks, kids’ activities, vendors, crafters, live music and more. Also featured is the 26th annual Steve and Cookies Dog Show. This two-day event has parades, a beer garden, and is located on Margate’s beautiful bayfront and promenade.
Historic Smithville Oktoberfest
Oct. 5-6
10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
615 E. Moss Mill Road
Free shuttle from 9:30 a.m.to 5:30 p.m.
Oktoberfest hosts more than 100 crafters along with an international food court, live music, and kids’ activities. Historic Smithville has 50 shops, paddle boats, and a carousel ride. Dogs are welcome. Follow their Facebook page to stay up to date.
Brigantine Fall Farmers Markets Boos and Brews Theme
Oct. 19
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Brigantine Community School parking lot, 301 Evans Blvd.
Thanksgiving Theme
Nov. 23
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Both fall markets will feature farmers, crafters, beer and spirits, food trucks, homemade food vendors and more. No dogs allowed at these markets, except for service dogs.
One of my favorite fall soup recipes featuring winter squash:
Harvest Squash Soup
Any squash can be used with this recipe, but a favorite is butternut squash. Tofu is added for protein and creaminess. Serves 4.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash
- olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- water
- 1⁄2 block silken tofu
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage (and extra for garnish)
Procedure
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Wash the butternut squash and cut it in half. Scoop out the seeds (rinse seeds with water, season with oil, salt, and pepper, and bake for 10 minutes at 375 degrees until crispy). These are great for a snack or as a garnish on top of the soup.
Drizzle olive oil over the cut squash and season with salt and pepper. Place cut sides down on a parchment-lined sheet tray. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until fork-tender. Allow to cool, then scoop out into a blender. Add 1 cup of water, silken tofu, and herbs. Blend until smooth. Add more water if needed until the desired consistency is reached.
Add the blended ingredients to a pot and heat on the stovetop until warm. Garnish with fresh sage. Enjoy this soup and the fall season!
Chef Christina Martin is a dedicated chef educator, passionate advocate for healthy eating, and mother. Christina’s expertise has been spotlighted in Independent Restaurateur Magazine and she has been awarded 2024 Chef Educator of the Year from the Professional Chef Association of South Jersey.
