The Fall Harvest

While the arrival of the fall season is more pronounced in other parts of the country; around here, a quick trip to the farmers market is sometimes all it takes to confirm that autumn is almost here.  

Summer staples such as cherries and watermelons are just about gone, so Patch took a look at the first batch of the new harvest at the Tapia Farms stall.

Blue Lake Green Beans

Considered the benchmark standard for green beans since the mid-20^th century, Blue Lake green beans were originally considered canning beans. It has evolved into a gourmet bean variety only very recently.

This stringless variety got its name from the Blue Lake District near Ukiah, California, where it was originally cultivated in the early 20^th century.

They have dark green, cylindrical, firm and plump pods with tiny seeds that are pale green or white.

Distinctively mild and subtly sweet, with a crisp and tender texture, this green bean variety can be braised, boiled, creamed or stir-fried, according to Louie Tapia, a family member.

Eggplants

Technically a fruit, but grown and treated as a vegetable, the eggplant got its name from English explorers who discovered it in Asia. The variety they found then was shaped like an egg, hence the name.

The globe eggplants that Tapia Farms had in stock are the most common variety. Glossy, black-purple skin with an oval or oblong shape distinguishes this type from other market varieties.

Eggplants are quite versatile in the kitchen, with their sponge-like texture enabling them to easily take on different flavors with ease. Sautéing, baking, roasting and other cooking methods will bring out the best in eggplants.

A longer than average shelf life also adds to the eggplants’ appeal. “They can be stored in the refrigerated for one to two weeks,” said Tapia.

Maui-Style Onions

Commonly used in savory dishes, these sweet onions, in various shapes and colors, were in high demand. “They will be gone before the day is over,” said Tapia.

They are quite versatile, too, and can be sautéed, stir-fried, grilled, baked and made into anything from salsas to soups. Cooking them longer also allows the sugars in the onions to caramelize, resulting in a tastier dish.

When stored in a cool, dry place, they will last for a month or so.

Fall and winter preview

Based in Encino, the family-run urban farm is considered a farming institution, especially in the San Fernando Valley area. Locals credit Tapia Farms for being partly responsible in making hayrides and pumpkin patches popular activities during the fall and winter.

Watch out for Tapia Farms’ pumpkins and Christmas trees very soon.

The Agoura Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday at 5835 Kanan Rd.