My Trip to Tom’s Farms
As the temperature drops, I find myself in need of recipes that warm you up on those chilly nights. Last week I stumbled upon a delicious recipe for a Hearty Potato Soup from Southern Living Magazine. After reading the list of ingredients and preparation, I knew that not only was thing going to be an easy dish to make (my favorite kind), but it was also full of hearty vegetables so it was on the healthy side. First things first though–I needed to grab all of the necessary ingredients and in the the spirit of our November Challenge, I wanted to use the freshest produce 
possible. I grabbed my grocery list and headed off to Tom’s Farms (you know, that place you always pass by on the way to Glen Ivy Hot Springs!?).
I quickly learned one thing about Tom’s Farms: it’s easy to spend a lot of time there! I was quickly distracted by rows of brightly colored fruit and produce…from locally grown apples to onions to squash. As I wandered up and down the aisles, employees were extremely helpful and knowledgeable, explaining how everything is grown locally (except for citrus this time of year) and brought in daily to ensure customers receive the freshest items possible. Needless to say, I didn’t stick to my list and my basket filled up fast. After perusing the fresh produce and fruit, I found myself drifting dangerously close to their “Sweet Shop” which is connected to their produce stand. After adding a box of Chocolate Covered 
Caramel & Peanut Clusters to my basket (I’m eating for two so don’t judge me!), I knew it was time to go before I did some real damage.
Beginning in the early afternoon, I washed the produce and began chopping away. Soon enough everything was thrown into my trusty crock pot and the house began to fill with the scent of the warm winter soup. After three and half hours of slow cooking, my husband and I were ready to eat. I ladled the soup into our bread bowls and we began to enjoy. One word came to mind: YUM! Not only was this delicious, but this dish truly warms (and fills) you up and will definitely be a staple in our home!
It was hard not to recognize the amazing flavors of the fresh produce that this dish has and I encourage all of you to add a little farm-fresh flavor to your next recipe and head to Tom’s Farms (or any local farmer’s market). You’ll not only be supporting local farmers, but you’ll be sure to notice a flavor that supermarkets can’t match!
Where do you find is the best place to find locally grown fruit and produce? Share your hot spots with us by leaving a comment below!
Sounds like a fun adventure and delicious dinner! I always love to stop by Tom’s Farms on my way home from Glen Ivy, they have a great wine selection too…