The Art of The Market Haul

There is a certain magic in coming home from the farmers’ market, bag stuffed and arms full of fresh, fragrant local treasures. Each item is a snapshot of the region you call home and a testament to the hard work and dedication to quality of our local farmers and food producers. The market haul transcends what we would typically call a “grocery trip,” it is much more sensory, an art form, and a way to feel connected with your community but also more in tune with food in an intentional way.  

The experience of the market haul begins before you even arrive. It is important to know what is in season to guide your shopping, while also allowing room for spontaneity. Come prepared with your bags, a small list, cash (most of our vendors accept cards as well), and an openness to discover or try something new—something maybe you wouldn't typically pick up at one of the big grocery stores. Part of the discovery is about talking with your local farmers and producers, if you are unsure how to prepare or incorporate an ingredient into a meal, they can help you with that.  

In walking through the market, you are invited to have these conversations with the people you are purchasing goods from, a luxury you are not afforded in a conventional grocery experience. How was this grown? What is in season next? How do I prepare something unfamiliar? Some of the best hauls are those that balance staples with surprises. You’re likely to pick up your leafy greens and veggies, bread, eggs, yes—but throw in a few wildcards, a new variety of something, a jar of something picked and mysterious, and of course... a couple sweet treats.  
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What makes a good haul is diversity, not volume. Colours, textures and complimentary ingredients that help set up a week of meals that feel fresh and exciting. Think in groupings: what would make a nice salad? A stir fry? Something that can be prepared and roasted in the oven for an easy weeknight side? Also, consider how you store your market bounty. Herbs in jars of water, leafy greens in containers wrapped in towels, root veg in cool, dark bins. There are many ways to extend the life of your produce and reduce waste. Without the use of preservatives, wax coatings, or extended cold-chain storage, what you get in freshness and flavour you sometimes lose in durability – that's the trade-off for peak season quality.  ​

From your market bag to your kitchen and dining room table brings its own inspiration. Maybe the tomatoes you picked up are calling for bruschetta, or the chard you weren't sure what to do with is asking to be sauteed with garlic and eggs. Setting aside time to wash, chop, and prep your ingredients will make cooking all the easier. Simple recipes that honour the ingredients and their quality—allow the freshness of market produce and goods to shine.  

Over time, frequenting the market becomes a lifestyle grounded in rhythm. You begin to get to know your favorite vendors, follow the rise and fall of the harvest calendar to feel the joy in participating in the transitions of the season, from spring greens to summer fruit. Supporting local farmers, eating what's in season, and connecting face to face is nourishing in ways beyond your plate. The art of the market haul invites you to slow down, choose mindfully, and celebrate food as a joyful, creative act.  

We'd love to see your #HortonMarketHaul each week and how you use the incredible local ingredients you pick up!​

from @beaniejewell on Instagram

from @jennyskitchenn_ on Instagram

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Jacob Wilcox, EDC Summer Student ​

Jacob is a St. Thomas-born, Wallacetown-raised artist and writer who recently completed a BA in Visual Art at York University. An avid Elgin County enthusiast, he has a deep appreciation for local businesses, rural life, community connections, and grassroots initiatives. From a young age, Jacob has been involved in local theatre--most notably Dutton’s community theatre, WEDS. As a practicing artist, he blends photography, writing, and illustration in both his personal work and marketing initiatives, with a focus on visual storytelling and brand identity. He is drawn to the beauty in the mundane, finds art in everyday life, and hopes to carry that perspective into a future career in community stewardship and education.