Have you ever wondered about what the difference is between sweet potatoes and yams? Sweet potatoes are also called ‘yams’ — however, these tuberous root vegetables are actually from two very different plants. Sweet potatoes are related to morning glories and true yams are related to palms and grasses. When you buy a ‘yam’ at...Read More

Although we love baked sweet potatoes, steaming is quicker and produces a perfectly moist potato. Steamed baked potatoes take about 30 minutes, while baked potatoes take at least an hour. This method is for medium-sized potatoes. However, if you have only large-sized potatoes, you can cut them in half. (1) Fill the lower part of...Read More

Raw peanuts are a rare find at most California farmers’ markets, but we’re fortunate to have K T Farms as a vendor. They bring unique produce, including these fresh peanuts, to our markets. How to Cook Fresh Peanuts Roasting or boiling fresh peanuts is a simple and satisfying way to transform this classic snack. Whether...Read More

Standing in front of a vast display of pears can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to remember which variety is best for your recipe. We hope this guide will make your selection easier! The key to picking the perfect pear lies in your personal preferences and the dish you’re planning to create. Pears come...Read More

With the summer months fast approaching and the abundant seafood available at the farmers market, here’s a quick reference guide for selecting fish and how to cook it perfectly every time. This year, you’ll find fresh and frozen fish at H & H Fresh Fish Company (Aptos Farmers Market), La Marea by the Sea (Monterey...Read More

Whole grains are healthy, highly nutritious, contain fiber and protein, and are a great substitute for refined carbohydrates. If you find it challenging to get the recommended three servings of whole grains each day, try adding them to soups, salads, and main dishes, or eat them like hot cereal in the morning. Enjoy crunchy textures...Read More

Most people think of olives first when thinking of tapenade, but the word tapenade actually comes from the Provençal word “tapeno,” which means “caper.” I like to keep this in mind when making tapenade to remind myself to keep the balance between the caper and the olive, which can easily dominate this versatile paste. I...Read More

This excellent gluten-free flour formulation comes from King Arthur Flour, America’s oldest flour company in Vermont. Special diets, such as the gluten-free diet required for celiac disease, can be very challenging especially if you enjoy traditional baked goods and bread. Tested, reliable formulations using quality ingredients to replicate traditional baked products (which use wheat flour)...Read More

Abalone is a large mollusk that is as delicious as it is tough. If you’re not buying pre-tenderized abalone, you’ll have to do the “tenderizing” yourself. Start by trimming away the dark, curly edges, which tend to stay tough. Then, slice it into thin 1/4-inch slices. Place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper...Read More

RECIPES: Roasted Lamb with Port Sauce, Herb Marinated Rack of Lamb, Rack of Lamb Marinated in Pomegranate Juice, Persian Lamb When cooking lamb, the proper lamb cooking time and the correct cooking temperature are extremely important. The optimum flavor and tenderness of various cuts of lamb can be consistently achieved when care is taken to...Read More