By Natalie Fullerton, KRC’s Our Local Food – South Central

What better way is there to celebrate local food then Thanksgiving!? While searching for provisions to fill your Thanksgiving table this year, keep in mind some food can be purchased locally. (This can make for a great dinner conversation as well!) Despite the mid-fall season, finding locally grown and raised items in South Central Kansas can be stress-free. Some farms are now utilizing season extension techniques like high tunnels which allow certain produce items to be available this time of year. In November, you might find lettuce, radishes, carrots, or Cole Crops like broccoli and cauliflower growing in a high tunnel. Other items such as honey, jams, jellies, salsa, dairy, eggs, and meats that can be preserved or frozen are an easy find for late fall local food. Produce that stores well such as potatoes, squash, and onions can also be added to your local food shopping list.

So what are you waiting for!? Head out to pick up some local homemade salsa or carrots and radishes to spice up your appetizer table. While you’re at it, might as well pick up a local grown turkey!
Where do you find such items this time of year you might ask? For starters be sure to drop by the Kansas Grown Winter Market tomorrow (Nov. 19) at the Sedgwick County Extension Office from 8:00 am to Noon. You will find a great variety of venders selling everything from produce to jarred jams and baked goods. (Holiday pies anyone?!) You’re also going to need a turkey right? Food For Thought in Wichita and Prairie Harvest in Newton carries locally raised turkeys as well as a number of other local items including produce, flour from OLF member Janzen Family Farms, honey, eggs, milk and cheese, and baking mixes! You can also browse our member directory. Farms carrying meat, processed products, baked goods, or dairy may have items available.

Don’t forget, a jar of honey or basket of fall veggies can make great gifts for the holidays!
Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!