A SUCCINCT REMINDER
Congratulations to Three Ships Coffee, the Virginian Pilot Taste Test winner last week!
One judge, Alison Palmer, described it this way: “Wonderful flavors, like tasting wine. But the best part was the passion and knowledge that the owners shared.”
And that, dear friends, is a succinct reminder of the value of the shopping experience at a farmers market.
Old Beach Farmers Market abounds with vendors who are passionate and knowledgeable. Their focus and integrity make the products they sell just a cut above the rest.
We welcome Just Cupcakes back this week, just in time to have with your coffee.
Come see for yourself how good local tastes.
NOTE: This week, we must strictly adhere to the 9 a.m. opening for sales. Please help us keep our fall hours fair for everyone.
RECIPE:
COUNTRY HAM WITH RED-EYE GRAVY
This recipe is from my book, Dishing Up Virginia:
Red-eye gravy is a southern classic, traditionally served with the piece of pan-fried ham used to create the drippings that form the basis for the recipe. It may be served over such staples as grits as well. Any gravy left on the plate is traditionally sopped up with biscuits. The rather unusual name supposedly comes from a nontraditional gravy ingredient — coffee. When the oils from the ham and the coffee combine, the grease floats on top, forming a ring that resembles a reddish- hued human eye.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 large ¼-inch slice country ham, with 1/4 inch fat left on. Fry on both sides until slightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes per side.
Transfer the ham to a serving plate and add 1/2 cup strong-brewed black coffee to the skillet. Bring to a boil, stirring and scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon brown sugar until melted. The gravy will be thin. Pour the gravy over the ham slice and serve immediately with biscuits to sop.
Yields 1-2 servings.
From Chef Patrick Evans-Hylton
VENDORS
Artisan’s Bakery & Cafe
The Bakery at Riverside Farm
The Creative Wedge
Croc’s 19th Street Bistro
Fresh Batch Jams
Fruitive
Full Quiver Farm
Grace and Gratitude
Hashi Food Truck
Heads Up Hydrogreens
Jubilee Seafood
Just Cupcakes
Mattawoman Creek Farms
My Vegan Sweet Tooth
Pasta e Pani
Pennacock Peppers
Shady Goat Farm
Tasha’s Own Goats Milk Soap
Terrapin
Three Ships Coffee
Vy’s Pies
Whole-ly Rollers
Zinnia Girls