Not long after moved to Atlanta, I had the bright idea to check out Your Dekalb Farmers Market for the first time around 1PM on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Upon entering, I felt like I was suddenly thrust into the streets of Calcutta during Durga Puja. Bodies flew at me from all directions while pieces of produce and plastic bags whipped around my head. Shopping carts repeatedly jammed into the back of my legs. Babies wailed. Women wept.
I exited with a handful of almonds, just happy to be leaving alive and with some of my dignity.
These days I’m a little more strategic about when I visit YDFM. Left alone to wonder the isles in semi-solitude, I am always amazed at what I discover behind the next turn. It seems like I’m always uncovering some new ingredient to benefit my paleo lifestyle every time I set foot inside.
Here are five paleo treasures I’ve uncovered so far during my explorations at Your Dekalb Farmers Market.
1. Aroy-D Coconut Milk
I was on a quest to find coconut milk with no additional ingredients or preservatives, and this was like discovering the Holy Grail. With a total of one ingredient- coconut milk- this is by far the best brand of coconut milk that I can buy on a regular basis. The only sell it in large 33.8 0z cartons, so you have to use it within a couple days of opening. That’s usually not a problem for me.
2. Fresh Turmeric
At first glance you might just think you are seeing some regular old ginger. But wait! That’s turmeric! Studies have shown some amazing health benefits of turmeric, ranging from relieving arthritis to preventing Alzheimers (*note most studies involve high doses in extract form) Personally, I just love the taste and use it in everything from eggs to curries.
3. Organic Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is pretty popular in my kitchen. I easily go through at least three or four tablespoons a day. When I came across this little gem I was pretty excited, mostly due to the fact that it’s in a weird location (really, the condiments isle?) Sometimes I still have trouble finding it. But for a giant 32 oz tub of coconutty goodness that comes at a decent price, it’s well worth hunting it down.
4. Arrowroot Powder
You’ll see this ingredient used in a lot of paleo recipes as a substitute for corn starch. I’ve found it to be pretty useful for thickening up just about any sauce or gravy. At YDFM, you’ll find it nestled in along the wall of spices.
5. Organic Yergecheffe Coffee
I know that you don’t have to be paleo to drink coffee, but I just had to put this on the list. These beans are amazing. They make a rich, yet not too bitter brew that has become one of my favorite cups-o-joe. Best when french pressed.
6. Rio Star Grapefruit
Grapefruit might not be that exciting or appealing to some, but this one is an exception. It’s has beautiful pink color with an almost sweet, citrusy taste. They might not always be in stock, but sometimes the sign will hang above imposter grapefruit. Don’t be fooled! That label must say Rio Star!
So there are some little treasures I’ve uncovered during many, many hours spent of wondering the halls of Your Dekalb Farmers Market. I’m sure there’s many more exciting items just waiting to be discovered. What have you found?