Welcome to bygeorgianbay.com! Join us as we embark on a road trip along the beautiful shores of Georgian Bay – exploring the local flavours, distinctive arts, culture, the natural landscape and the people we meet along the way. Along our journey, we hope to capture our experiences connecting with and celebrating local farmers and producers, and offer you insight into the foods and products that they strive to provide for their community. We look forward to sharing recipes inspired by locally sourced ingredients, that reflect the distinct region in which we grew up and continue to enjoy. At the time of this entry, life on Georgian Bay has not returned to its usual rhythms… and yet, as we slowly adjust to this new situation, we feel very lucky to have so many beaches, summer markets, parks, forests and rural communities to discover. Sunny moments on Georgian Bay, and the warmth and vibrancy of this community, can only serve as a reminder of brighter days ahead. Always a part of us, no matter how far we travel…This is life on Georgian Bay. Farmer’s Markets by the Bay - Open for Exploration! Seasonal, locally-grown produce, freshly baked treats, preserves, artisanal cheeses, local honey, smoked meats, gifts made by local artisans and more…these are some of the items we found as we explored the many outdoor Farmer’s Markets in theGeorgian Bay area this summer. Inspiration for our summer meals and celebrations blossomed when we purchased fresh goods from local farmers and producers. Having been given the green light, many markets have recently opened for the summer season. Despite varying vendor numbers, those who chose to participate are providing a safe experience and meeting place for people in the communities. Measures such as physical distancing, directional pathways, one customer at a time per booth, safety protocol signs and handwashing stations, are ensuring safe and happy shopping for all. Some markets are even offering pre-ordering on-line options for many of their products. It’s great to see visitors connecting with one another, and with producers. There is nothing quite like the sights, sounds and flavours of a vibrant farmer’s market. The amazing opportunity to chat with local producers, hear their story and experience the pride and joy they have in what they have created, is exciting and inspiring. Here is what we discovered on market day in a number of our local communities. Gravenhurst Farmer’s Market: WED 9am - 2pm; Parking at Muskoka Wharf. Market Vibe: Set in an open park area near Gravenhurst’s beautiful Muskoka Wharf, this Farmer’s Market is one of the largest in the region and boasts an assortment of interesting and diverse local vendors. There were a variety of fresh and organic produce and we really liked that the fruit can be purchased in a mixed sampler basket at some stalls. Others offered prepared condiments and sauces such as Quiet Valley Sizzle, whose Keto friendly marinades and BBQ sauces are produced in Beaver Valley, Ontario by corporate caterer Greg Montford. Attilio’s Fine Foods sell a variety of culinary delights including pasta sauces, specialty vinegars and olive oil from Italy. Also noteworthy were Bee By the Sea, who make an array of locally produced Honey and Sea Buckthorn skincare products and Spill The Beans. We also met the talented artist behind the R.G. Soapstone creations who offers beautiful soapstone animal carvings. Best Moments: We had the opportunity to have wonderful conversations with a number of vendors, to hear their stories and inspirations. Muskoka Honey Bee Products are produced by a family of 4th and 5th generation beekeepers. Their beehives are scattered throughout the Huntsville and Bracebridge regions of Ontario. They have a number of products including 100% pure unpasteurised wildflower honey, ginger and blueberry infused honey, lip balms, honey soap and beeswax candles. We also met Jessica from Jessica Vergeer Studios, an artist and fashion designer based out of Parry Sound. Her love for colour, texture, and pattern are evident in her clothing designs and is an inspiration for her paintings. One can purchase original landscape paintings or necklaces and cuff bracelets featuring these designs. .................................................................................................... Bracebridge Farmer’s Market: SAT 8:30am-1pm; Parking along the street. Market Vibe: This Saturday morning market is found in Memorial Park, the central hub of downtown Bracebridge. Parking is available on vibrant Manitoba Street, which is lined with historic red brick buildings and unique architectural features. When we entered the market, we were greeted by a large one-way sign. Booths were set up in a large square, surrounding the Annie Williams Memorial Park Pavilion, where live music and events normally take place. There were vendors from Spy Apple Cider, Spill the Beans bean products, The Muskoka Pot Pie Company, Muskoka Honey Bee Products, the Manitoulin Island Brand Sauces and a few farmers selling produce. Because we were there for opening at 8am it was still fairly quiet. They had Plexiglas-glass in front of vendors, port-a-potty, wash station and one-way signs. Best Moments: We had the pleasure of speaking to Karla Holt, the owner of Spill the Beans from Gravenhurst, Ontario. The company sells a full line of soups, salads and chilies made with legumes. She was very friendly and mentioned that she also sells her products in Rosseau and Gravenhurst. We purchased a couple of her salads for easy summer side dishes. After visiting the market, we were able to walk around the interesting downtown area. Collingwood Farmers Market: SAT 8 am – 1 pm; Pre-ordering available. Parking adjacent to market, as well as on Pine Street. Market Vibe:The Collingwood Farmer’s Market, had a vibrant and alluring atmosphere. Of the markets visited to date, this one was the most expansive and diverse. Although it met all the new protocols, this did not detract from a true market experience. While exploring the vendors stalls, we were impressed by the wide selection of local produce and friendly vendors. The market is located one block west of Collingwood’s main shopping street and across from Dag’s and Willow, a well-known shop filled with fine foods, delicious cheeses and food related gifts. Best Moments: The arrows around the market, led us to many wonderful choices including: Masks from a sweet mother and daughter team at Carly Makes Masks and organic vegetables from a lovely family at Harvest Moon Farm, in Meaford. For future purchases we discovered raised dog bowls created by BarrkBowls, garlic cloves from Heart’s Desire and baked goods from Don’s Bakery near Bala. We spoke to Robert Ketchin from Georgian Hills Vineyards, who is an engaging and friendly host who will gladly answer your questions about the winery, products and events. We are always impressed with the winery’s products and warm hospitality. We also chatted with Colette from McCutcheon’s Maple syrup in Oro Medonte. Colette displayed a wonderful variety of maple syrup products. These visits reminded us of the importance of supporting our local farmers and businesses, as they have faced so many challenges this year. .................................................................................................... Lion’s Head Farmer’s Market: SAT 9am – 12pm.; pre-ordering available. Market Vibe: Surrounded by incredible nature and breathtaking vistas, sits the little town of Lion’s Head. The Lion’s Head Market, originally situated along the beach is now located next door to the Rotary Club, as there was no way to set up a one-way layout in the original space. Normally, a 30-booth market, only about 8 vendors participated this year. Despite the small showing, there was definitely a wonderful community feel. The two women greeting visitors at the entrance, seemed to address each person they knew by their first name and welcomed us as we entered. Some of the vendors included Handmade Beeswax Wraps by Sew Detailed, Farm Truck Café, beautiful artichokes, beets and other produce by The Easy Farm, Pottery, Lamblicious local lamb products, Georgian Bay Soapworks and a few others. Best Moments: We spoke to Sue from Georgian Bay Soapworks who was so friendly. Their all-natural products are handmade and sold in backyard compostable, recyclable and biodegradable packaging. We were drawn into her booth by the wonderful aromas of lavender and mint. We purchased some of her natural lavender lip balm, which was very much appreciated after a long day of hiking in the sun. The market has a wonderful story and will hopefully be buzzing at its usual size next year. Elmvale Flea and Farmer’s Market: THU and SUN 9am - 3pm; parking in field adjacent to market; 1568 County Rd 92, Elmvale, Ontario. Market Vibe: This rural flea and farmer’s market is a real blast from the past! Operating for over 75 years, it is a true mix of food stalls, antiques and quintessential flea market items. Emerging from the fields are some dinosaur statues which add to the quirky character of this market. Best Moments: When we first entered the antique barn, we were greeted by friendly conversation as we searched for timeless treasures. One of our favourite stops was Casey’s Records which is a true vinyl heaven. You will find a huge collection of records, for great prices and a very friendly vendor who played our favourites as we explored his shop. We had a lovely conversation with Sonia Faye Designs who creates unique and handcrafted silver jewelry. Food vendors sold a variety of locally sourced produce and prepared foods including the BBQ Hut, and the Cheese Shop. .................................................................................................... Orillia Farmer’s Market: SAT 8am- 12:30pm Market Vibe: This market is centrally located in a large parking lot beside the beautiful and historic Orillia Opera House. The long-established Farmer’s Market was opened later in the season and is re-establishing its community presence. There were a number of large stalls with fresh vegetables and fruit, as well as a well-stocked cured meat vendor. Ontario wine was also available for purchase. Best Moments: We spoke to Melinda, who was at the Orillia Honey stall. We bought many of her beautiful bee’s wax candles, as well as a variety of honeys including white honey from White Dutch Clover, which is perfect for sweetening teas and for baking. Barrie Farmers Market: SAT 8am-12pm; on-street parking around City Hall. Pre-ordering available MON-FRI, pick-up SAT. Market Vibe: This busy farmer’s market is located behind the Barrie City Hall and close to the MacLaren Art Gallery and Barrie’s waterfront Heritage Park. There were over 25 booths, mainly focused on a variety of local food products and fresh ingredients. Included at the many stalls were, fresh cut flowers, prepared foods, free range, grass fed beef and local garden vegetables. We bought fresh sweet corn from Anne and Michelle from Brown’s farm, a number of honey products from Adam’s Honey, as well as edible lavender buds from Sam at Camphill. Best Moments: When speaking with the vendors, we were particularly impressed with their passion and pride in what they were bringing to market. It was wonderful meeting Art, from Grandpa’s Hungarian Sausages. We’ve been buying his products from Farm2Door and were so happy to finally meet him. His wonderful sausages were lovingly made in his commercial kitchen, from his grandfather’s recipes. We also met Shaun from the Metis Fish Market who also carries on the legacy of his family’s proud Metis commercial fishing heritage. This fish market sells a wide variety of smoked fish, dips and fresh fish sourced from local waters. .................................................................................................... Creemore Farmers Market: SAT 8:30am – 12pm; parking on street. Market Vibe: The Creemore Farmer’s Market is located on the picturesque Main Street which is lined with shops, galleries, restaurants and buildings that retain their historical charm. The market is right beside the Creemore Springs Brewery, which presently, features a retail store and beer garden. The market was inviting, as was the quaint town. There were two rows of vendors, who provided a variety of fresh produce and products. Best Moments: We purchased sweet corn from Rhy’s Sweet Corn, for the many recipes we had in mind. The other vendors visited were: Featherstone Naturals, where we bought honey and beeswax wraps. We also noted Timberwind Farms, Ironside Farm and Sunnidale Garlic. Midland Farmer’s Market: SUN 9am – 1pm; Street parking or at adjacent town dock. Market Vibe: Midland’s market gives one a true sense of community. The market location allows for local residents and visitors to enjoy the stalls, converse with the vendors and catch up on local happenings. Despite the Midland Rejuvenation Project, presently underway, one can appreciate a number of Midland’s distinctive murals and the town’s downtown beauty. This welcoming market is located in a parking lot at the bottom of Midland’s beautiful main street beside Grounded Coffee, with a short walk to Midland’s scenic harbour and Midland Rotary Waterfront Trail, which meanders its way along the shore and is part of the Trans Canada Trail. Best Moments: It was amazing to meet with vendors who produced some of the products that we have been enjoying this summer. Foster’s Farm, Say Cheese from Vasey and Mundy’s Bay Honey, located in Penetanguishene had brought their quality products and enthusiastically spoke about the journey that lead them here. Among the others in attendance were Thunder Beach Acres, a local organic farm, Shana’s Baked Goods, a small batch bakery from Port McNicoll, Herbs Etc. and A Touch of Rye, with artisan bread. We had a lovely conversation with Antje from “Pottery by Antje” whose studio is located in Lafontaine. We learned of her lifelong studies and experience in pottery creation and design and look forward to using the pieces we purchased. .................................................................................................... The Harbour Market-Victoria Harbour: FRI 3pm-7pm Market Vibe: This intimate, diverse and friendly market is located near the town docks, with an amazing view of the harbour and town hall. Best Moments: We had the chance to talk to a number of the vendors who were very enthusiastic about this market and were happy to see that attendance continued to grow as people were excited to be able to buy local products. Natasha from PJ Meats, who has lots of experience at farmer’s markets, was very welcoming and willing to share the story of her family-owned business. We were amazed at the selection of cured meats and cheeses. We bought some pepperettes for an aficionado in our family. We also met with Steve Foster, who’s family have been producers in the area for years. In addition to local fruit and vegetables, he also offered homemade preserves and honey. Nicioli Farms, from Lafontaine, had a wide variety of potted herbs, plants and flowers. Quench Soap displayed many natural products for pampering yourself while relaxing at home. We were able to come away with a variety of items to stock our pantry for the week ahead. .................................................................................................... Market Fresh Corn Recipes We have used the fresh corn we purchased from Brown's Farm in the following recipes. We hope you enjoy them as much as we did! Market Fresh Corn Soup
This silky, summery soup makes a perfect starter served in a cup or small bowl. It is also great as a light lunch with savoury cornbread and a green salad with a lemon dressing. Feel free to adjust the level of spice. You will require a fine mesh sieve and immersion or regular blender to make this creamy soup. Serves 4-6 Ingredients
Fresh Corn Bread During the summer there is nothing like biting into crisp and sweet, farm fresh corn. One of the ways to enjoy this delicious summer treat is in this fresh corn bread. It is perfect for a barbecue or brunch to accompany a summer salad. Ingredients 1 cup unbleached white flour 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon honey or white sugar (optional) 2 large eggs I cup milk 1 tablespoon lemon juice ¼ cup unsalted butter 1 ½ -2 medium cobs of sweet corn 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional) Preparation Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Generously butter an 8 inch round cake pan, line the bottom with parchment paper and butter again. Place the cob of corn over a piece of parchment or in a shallow bowl. Use a sharp knife in order to remove the kernels from the cobs of corn and set aside. In a separate bowl sift together dry ingredients, including flour, cornmeal, baking powder, (sugar if using) and salt. Combine milk and lemon juice. In a separate bowl whisk the eggs until they become opaque yellow. Combine the milk mixture (and honey if using), with the eggs. Slowly drizzle the melted butter into the liquid mixture while whisking the mixture. Use a rubber spatula to combine the wet into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the fresh corn kernels and the fresh herbs into the batter. Scoop the batter into the pan. It will be quite stiff and may require some levelling. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 25 minutes or until a skewer or toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Tips This can be made in a small loaf pan. Bread can then be sliced and lightly grilled on the barbecue.
0 Comments
|
Spring 2024
.....................................................
Upcoming Events May 2024 ..................................................... Upcoming Events Check back in for many exciting events coming up in GB!
Archives
March 2023
|