Our year-round market offers bright colors even in the bleakest weather thanks to longtime veggie vendors like Tant Hill Farms. Farming since 2009 and vending at the Main St Farmers Market since its inception in 2010, Tant Hill Farms is known for specializing in cold weather crops and organic eggs. Most farmer’s peak season is in the heat but the Tants like to enjoy their fun in the sun, take a little summer vaca then put their energy into cool weather crops like Toscano kale, swiss chard, kohlrabi and daikon radishes.

Pictured is their bitter melon, which is as interesting for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Gina recommended it for breakfast and, as the husband and I are working on decreasing carbs at breakfast time, simply sautéing the melon with garlic and onion heightens a hearty egg breakfast. The caramelized onion and powerful garlic mixed with the bitter melon provides a flavor that will awaken the palate.

The property on which Tant Hill farm sits is 100 years old and now houses five high tunnels and a variety of chickens along with the homestead and original hand-dug well. Like many farmers, Mark and Gina started growing sustainably for their own needs but realized they could “share their labor of love with others that are interested in feeding their families wholesome real food using organic practices,” Gina explained, “Our tag line is ‘Real food, real living.’”

Throughout the winter, Tant Hill will have sunchokes, powerhouse greens and their organic eggs. With ginger and turmeric on its way, you can call or text the farm at 423-637-9793 to preorder any of their product which is great for those who can’t make it to the market until the end. Stop by their booth and talk with Mark and Gina to find out what cool things they have growing all winter long.