Farmer's Markets Around the Valley

Hi friends!!

Oh man, what a crazy season we've had here in the valley! As a Phoenix native, I'm used to moderately dry weather and warmer temps in our "cold" months, but I feel like we've been living on a weather rollercoaster this year. It's been one of the wettest on record for the fall since 1939! However, despite the weather shifts, life still prevails - particularly in the kitchen. 

Schmagee kicked off the fall season in October with our first-ever vendor booth at a farmer's market, and let me just say, markets are a whole new journey! The funny part about going to a market is that each time, I think I change up my layout. I haven't quite found "the one" for my set-up yet, but I think I'm getting there! The other part is really figuring out what each market is really looking for and making sure to pack up enough product to bring with. 

Here's what I've learned from it all: infused and fermented honeys are quite a hit, curds are a curious item and people really fall in love once they have a taste, and focaccia is highly sought after. 

One of the most surprising things for me, though, is that you guys are looking for great gluten-free baked items! Honestly, I really expected there to be more out there for gluten-free options at the markets, but from Scottsdale to Avondale, that is the biggest excitement I see from my customers: "You have gluten-free cookies and breads?!" Yes, yes I do. And because of this, I have embarked on an adventure to really understand how to replicate that glutinous binder from the lack of wheat protein, as well as how to improve the texture. (We have all tried a gluten-free item at some point and it's been so gritty that we question why anyone even bothers, am I right?!) 

To that end, here's a few exciting announcements to share: we have officially embarked on a gluten-free sourdough base using potato flour and y'all I'm so excited to bake this first loaf of bread! After lots of research, trial and error, and talking with you all, I have figured out how to offer a more tender, classic texture to our gf items! I can't wait for you guys to try these out!!!

Keep your eyes peeled for new product offerings as I start to design our Spring and Summer offerings, or come check out what we have on hand at our next market! 

I look forward to catching up with you all soon. 

From my kitchen to yours with love, 

Sarah <3