28 Spirit Summer 2020 Edition
From their table to yours Local producers share their favorite items for the season
By Susan Szuch susan.szuch@nptelegraph.com
Even more so than rising temperatures and pool openings, the return of the local farmers market is one of the most definitive signs that summer is here. Local producers shared their favorite ways to enjoy the first fruits of their labor. TUCKER FARMS, VENANGO About the farm: Rachel Tucker decided to expand to a market garden about four years ago with the help of her husband, Steve, three of her children and Jonathan David. “It has been a labor of love for me as I make most of the decisions and put in the most hours,” Rachel said. Favorite fruit or vegetable: Strawberries, which are in season from early to mid-June, are a Tucker family favorite. Favorite recipe: Strawberry Freezer Jam 1 quart fully ripe strawberries 4 cups sugar, measured into separate bowl ¾ cup water One 1.75-ounce package of fruit pectin
Rinse five 1-cup plastic containers and lids with boiling water. Dry thoroughly. Remove and discard strawberry stems. Crush strawberries thoroughly, 1 cup at a time. Measure exactly 2 cups prepared fruit into large bowl. Stir in sugar. Let stand 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix water and pectin in small saucepan. Bring to boil on high heat, stirring constantly. Continue boiling and stirring for 1 minute. Add to fruit mixture; stir for 3 minutes or until most of the sugar is dissolved. (A few sugar crystals may remain.) Fill containers immediately to within a half-inch of tops. Wipe off top edges of containers; immediately cover with lids. Let stand at room temperature 24 hours. Jam is now ready to use. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks or in freezer up to 1 year. (If frozen, thaw in refrigerator before using.) "Also makes a great topping for ice cream!" Rachel says Where to find them: North Platte, Ogallala and Grant farmers markets.
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