Where to start? How about with fresh produce? It is the beginning of fresh produce season here in this Gem state. While you can find potatoes and onions year around, now is the time to enjoy Idaho greens, asparagus, snap peas, radishes and more. It is almost fruit season as well. Soon enough you will be able to enjoy delicious cherries, apricots, peaches and so much more. Want to add something fun to your dish, Idaho Preferred also has great specialty mushroom growers (Groves Country Mushrooms and Morning Dew Mushrooms)! Click here to see our What’s in Season Produce Calendar.
We do love our Idaho potatoes though! You are likely aware Idaho is famous for potatoes. But did you know, Idaho harvests about 13 billion pounds of potatoes a year? And there are so many different local farms growing Idaho potatoes,you can really start having fun with your recipes! For instance, this Idaho potato and Chobani yogurt recipe is one of our favorites.
Need some Idaho potato entertainment for the kids? Let them get creative learning about the life of Spuddy Buddy in this coloring book from the Idaho Potato Commission.
Looking for something easy and quick–no mashing required? A potato bar might be more your style. Top your Idaho potato with a variety of Idaho products. With over 185 different commodities there’s something for everyone when it comes to Idaho agriculture! Our favorites? Idaho sour cream, Falls Brand Bacon, Idaho cheese, and Idaho butter. Read on for an Idaho chili recipe below that is another perfect topping to smother your Idaho potato in.
Need some protein on your menu? Lucky for you there are so many great options for the center of your plate. Meat and fish are Idaho raised products that are always in season. Look for local beef, lamb, pork, bacon, sausage, trout, chicken and venison when out shopping for your next meal. You can easily find local beef and pork at your local stores. Need to find local lamb click here. What about local chicken? Check out one of these amazing members or visit your local farmers market.
Another great Idaho product you can easily find is dairy! Idaho is the third largest dairy state in the nation. We have an abundance of locally produced dairy products from fluid milk to your favorite cheese, ice cream, butter and yogurt available all year-round. Check out some of Idaho Preferred’s dairy members.
Add a different kind of protein to your diet and shop for local beans and lentils. Did you know there is a 2nd generation owner-operated dry edible bean operation in Twin Falls, Idaho? Not many do! Not only is Soranco Beans securing Idaho pinto beans from growers, but they clean, process, and package all of their Idaho pinto beans as well. You can even drop in and buy direct from Soranco. And if you’re not a Twin Falls resident, you can always online order through 1,000 Springs Mill and have them shipped directly to your door. Looking for other local bean purveyors? Lark and Larder and the Boise Co-op also source locally grown beans.
And now to the best part. This Idaho Chili recipe from the Idaho Bean Commission is a great way to use dried beans, combined with Idaho onions, and topped with Idaho cheese. Add a warm Rodriguez Bakery tortilla as a side or fresh-baked bread from Zeppole and/or Bigwood Bread Co. and you have created a completely Idaho grown creation.
For more bean facts check out this Edible Idaho poster featuring, you guessed it, beans!
Don’t forget about the extra great things we have here in Idaho as well such as mustards, jams, pickled veggies and more! Then pair your delicious creation with a nice Idaho wine or beer and you are set!
Bon Appetit!
PS. For more great recipes, visit our recipe page here