Getting farm-fresh produce this time of the year is a bit more challenging for obvious reasons (brrr!). Tomatoes are more like baseballs, cucumbers don't have the same crunch, and sugar peas are lacking their signature snap. But instead of giving up on veggies until farmers' market season is in full swing again, get out of the house (hello, cabin fever!) and learn how to make the most out of the not-so bountiful harvest this time of the year.
Heirloom-focused gourmet food company The Scrumptious Pantry is continuing its “Heirloom 2.0” event series, which is designed to teach us urban dwellers a thing or two about traditional food values and techniques. TSP works with sustainable family farms in the Midwest to create small-batch food products to urbanites like us. It's Heirloom series kicks off on Thursday, February 7 (from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), with Canning For Newbies. You'll learn what to look for in product, the basic steps in the canning process, how to ensure food safety, and a few recipes that utilize your creations. How's that for an alternative way to spend a cold winter's night? Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased here.
The Scrumptious Pantry, 3230 West Fullerton Avenue (at Kedzie Boulevard); 301-979-9751.
Photo: Courtesy of The Scrumptious Pantry