We've been hearing about the rising gas and food prices in the media. Well, here's some good news! Several Northside Farmers Market vendors were asked recently about price increases for their products. They all responded with a clear message that almost all products will cost the same this year as they did last year. The food producers said that very few things will go up in price and for the few that do go up, the increase will only be a small amount. One example given was for corn, which will be higher this year since the farmer's cost for the seed has gone up so much. When asked how they can keep prices at last year's level, they answered that they don't have to travel far so the gas price increase doesn't effect the per pound price appreciably. The packaging costs are as low as ever since vendors can recycle bags and many shoppers bring their own bags. So let your friends and neighbors know the good news – their food money will go as far as it did last year at the Northside Farmers Market!

Expected at the May 25th Market: Asparagus, grass-finished beef, buffalo, eggs, cheese, chives, hand-made chocolates, cookies, elk, flowers and plants, hickory nuts, onions, maple syrup, meats, morels, perch, poultry, preserves, rhubarb, gourmet sausage, spinach, fresh bottled milk and yogurt, walnuts and more! This list could change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

** Come to the Plant Sale This Sunday **

Make sure to stop by the Troy Community Gardens Plant Sale during the Farmers Market this Sunday! All of the plants have been donated by Troy gardeners and friends of Troy Gardens, and every penny earned will go right back to help sustain Troy Community Gardens. Pick up the best in heirloom tomatoes and peppers, annual and perennial flowers, strawberry plants, organic bagged compost, and many more surprises. Support Troy Community Gardens and your own garden at the same time!

Ingredients

Asparagus tips (thin ones are best)
1 egg white
1 cup flour (seasoned with your favorite spices, salt and pepper)
Oil for deep frying
Lemon to garnish

You can deep fry or pan fry these. Avoid splattering if pan frying: CAREFULLY tilt pan slightly, allowing oil to flow to one side, then place tips in the empty side of the pan. Set pan back down and allow oil to cover tips.

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pan.
2. Toss asparagus in egg white and then in the seasoned flour.
3. Carefully pop the asparagus into the hot oil.
4. Cook until lightly colored.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or dip. Serves 4.

Lynette's Simple Dip: ~1/3 cup mayo mixed with ~1 tsp soy sauce.

Find more ways to use market foods in our Recipe Index