Farmers Markets, Cookery Schools and Deli’s with a Difference
Discover more about the support world of Cornish food and drink through the myriad of farmers’ markets, cookery schools, farm stalls, delis and much more.
It is amazing to think that back in 1996 there were no farmers’ markets in the United Kingdom, but today there are more markets than Asda stores. Such is their popularity.
However, the history books record that marketplaces are not a modern phenomenon. As far back as the Doomsday Book, market towns have been documented as having an open air space, often called market square, where local farmers would come to sell their produce.
The Juggernaut of Supermarkets
With the advent of the first supermarket opening in 1948, it has been downhill from then on for farmers’ markets, butchers, bakers, greengrocers, and grocery stores.
Independent shops closed, as the grip of the supermarkets took over our method of shopping.
Large chains like Sainsbury’s and Tesco recognised that in positioning themselves as a one-stop convenience shop, they would be able to capitalise on the post-war weariness of queuing at each individual shop.
Here in Cornwall, it did take a little longer for the smaller independents to give way to the juggernaut. It wasn’t until the late 1980’s that the first of the big stores ventured across the Tamar.
But despite that, it only took another 16 years or so, to wipe out history going back hundreds of years.
Today, thankfully, we have a thriving network of markets around the County.
Our appetite for knowing the provenance of what we are eating, coupled with a return to a more seasonal, sustainable way of life, ensures we have a choice.
By choosing to shop at a farmers’ market, we get the opportunity to build a relationship with the people who grow and make our food. We get fresh, seasonal produce, unfettered by preservatives, helping lower the carbon footprint from transportation and storage.
Buy British, Support Local Suppliers
It will be interesting to see how the Brexit divorce plays out with a greater focus on buying British food and drink. Let’s face it, it would seem to be a great opportunity to encourage us all to buy locally.
I guess I could be biased, but for me, Cornish produce is some of the best in the world. By supporting local farmers and suppliers, we are backing the economy. Nothing could be more important post COVID than to build a better future for ourselves.
Discover More Cookery Schools
If the idea of a traditional bucket and spade holiday in Cornwall doesn’t light your fire, why not consider a cookery course?
Or if you’ve always wanted to make a traditional pasty, but haven’t had the experience of learning from your grandmother, grabbing the opportunity to learn in relaxed surroundings could set you on the path to a whole new hobby.
For visitors and locals alike, there’s always something new to learn.
From foraging local hedgerows to teaching the next generation how to cook the bountiful food produced here in Cornwall, it’s a great way to look under the hood of what’s possible.
I’ll be investigating various courses over the coming months and hope I will be able to tickle your tastebuds with exciting new ways of cooking.
Discover Delicatessen Delights
Half the fun of discovering more about Cornwall comes by entering a tiny store, set in an original granite cottage. Nothing much is given away from the outside, before you step down into a treasure trove of all things foodie.
Of course, they’re not all tiny, nor set in quaint cottages, but the sense of anticipation is always the same.
It is the adult version of an old-fashioned sweet shop! Shelves groaning with jars of jewel-like goodies; charcuterie laid out enticing you with a “pick me, pick me!” look you can’t ignore.
From picnics, to takeaways, they are the answer to all our excursions. Our response to the end of a meal.
And, somehow, so much more.
I can’t wait to bring you the stories of these wonderful stores, showcasing the incredible array of Cornish produce.
Check out the blog, and why not join the conversation on our Facebook page? My aim is to build a community of Cornish food and drink lovers to spread the word about how great our County is.
I look forward to meeting you all. If you have suggestions or questions, let me know here – Contact Me – I love to hear your thoughts, stories, and suggestions as to how I can improve Cornish Foodie.