The Bradfords have arrived! Marc and I noticed those familiar large dark green pods appear in our well worn melon patch a little while ago and they are now ready to harvest and enjoy one last gasp of summer. We were first introduced to this variety of watermelon by one of our CSA member, Mike Boland. He got his hands on a few stamped seeds from the original blood line in the US. From those few seeds we coaxed 4 melons to ripen that year. After saving those seed, the next year we were thrilled with a bountiful crop. From there we have gathered a following of those that look forward to this old style watermelon.
The legendary Bradford was one of the sweetest melon varieties ever created in South Carolina. Prized in the 1800’s they all but disappeared by the 1920’s because its tender rind didn’t ship well. The Bradford family kept their heritage stock alive for all these years and now eight generations later the variety is making a comeback with chefs and food enthusiasts everywhere. Find the Bradford boys @bradfordwatermelons on Instagram and Facebook. These large melons are great for family get together’s or just celebrating the summer of 2021.
We are selling our Bradfords through the on-line store.
Here is what you can expect this week:
Fredonia Grapes The final sampling from our certified organic partner Clayton Farm, the last of our grape series. Great flavour for juice, jellies, wine or eating. They have a sweet taste with a hint of spiciness.
Sweet Mama winter squash A family pleaser, a fine-grained golden meat provides a sweet flavour when cooked. Makes a lovely roasted squash soup with garlic and ginger. Most winter squash have a hard skin. Take care when cutting and use a heavy knife.
Yukon Gem Potatoes An improvement on the Yukon Gold potato, it is a newer variety very suited to organic farmers. A beautiful golden flesh with a light skin makes a great smashed potato and chive side dish.
Purple Top Turnip An old heirloom variety that can be baked, boiled or steamed.
Garlic We wanted to give you a winter supply (or a few months at least). If stored properly, these heads should last about 6 months. Keep them in a cool dry and dark spot in your kitchen. We use a ceramic garlic pot on our counter, its handy and seems to keep them fresh. Later when we have time in the winter we chop it up and store in olive oil in the fridge.
Stir Fry Mix This makes a great base for a hearty salad. Can also be sauted for a quick and simple side dish. Try using olive oil, lemon juice and garlic.
Bunch Chives
Enjoy
