The local farmer’s markets in a metropolitan city are the hidden source of knowledge about a culture, cuisine and different communities living together who speak various languages. People enjoy the richness in ingredients and the unique, organic quality of the products sold in such markets. I visited Jean-Talon Market here in Montreal recently. It was my class practical lab, and my task was to find any five ingredients of different categories that were not familiar to me. This was my first experience visiting any farmer’s market, and I only heard about these markets from my parents as back in India, my parents used to visit a farmer’s market.
Jean-Talon Market is located in the Little Italy area of Montreal. I was surprised when one vegetable-seller told me that this market is the largest market in Montreal and the largest open-air market in North America. At first, I did not believe this, but when I explored the shops and the other food businesses in the vast streets of the market, I was convinced by that fact. This market is open all year round, and between May and October, you will find the maximum rush as it is the peak period of this market. This fantastic market allows various merchants from different cultural backgrounds and ethnicities to run their businesses along with the local producers. Moreover, this place helps to grow the economy in a large number because people generally prefer fresh and organic products.
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The five different types of products that I chose are figs (Fruit), portobello (Vegetable), Rabbit (Meat), Shish-Laouk Blend (Seasoning), Sauce au Tofu (Condiments).
FIGS
Figs are similar to an eye-drop in appearance. The scientific name for Fig is Ficus carica. They are rich in nutrients and have fewer calories making them a perfect fruit for a healthy diet. On the other hand, dried figs have high sugar content and very high calories. They are really beneficial for the digestive system and heart health.
Portobello
This vegetable is a type of brown mushroom. It is the big brother of brown crimini mushroom. Its name has a hidden funny theory. It got its name from a TV show named "Portobello". Its scientific name is Agaricus bisporus.
Rabbit
An uncooked rabbit has around 90 calories only. Rabbit meat is a rich source of protein with 18g and less than 2g of fats and zero carbs. I was very surprised to see that people eat rabbit's meat and it was a complete cultural blow to me
This sauce is really good as I tried it at the shop named "Pastificio"
Shish-laouk Blend
This brilliant spice is from Syria and I found the aroma of this spice similar to the Garam Masala in India.
Sauce au Tofu
To wrap up, it was a nice experience overall to discover the fantastic farmer's market located in the Little Italy district of Montreal.
