FRESHLY PICKED: Farm-fresh produce at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market. FRESHLY PICKED: Farm-fresh produce at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market.
Terri Dunbar-Curran
MORNING sunlight glints off the bay, children and dogs amble about happily and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sea air. It’s another glorious morning at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market. Overflowing with fresh produce, tasty nibbles and leisurely shoppers, the market takes place every Saturday near The Lookout in the Granger Bay section of the V&A Waterfront from 9am to 2pm.
It’s a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning and it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on fresh, good quality produce for the week, or an extra special dinner party you’re planning. Draw some cash and take a stroll with other market regulars through the marquees where you’ll find everything from fresh farm eggs and heavenly crisp breads, to just-squeezed juices.
I lingered in the veggies tent, feasting my eyes on the most magnificent savoy cabbages, bundles of perfect leeks, plump butternuts and baskets of bright chillis. Everything is crisp and looks like it’s just been picked – so much more appealing than dull supermarket fair that’s travelled who-knows-how-far in a freezer truck. Seeing the sumptuous spread of fruit and vegetables is an inspiration to not only hit the kitchen, but also try your own hand at suburban farming. They’ve got you covered there too, with a variety of plants, heirloom and organic seeds and gardening products on sale. There’s a lot to choose from and plenty of people on hand to give you tips and advice. And naturally, there are also options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten intolerant, and carb conscious visitors.
The locally-grown produce is sourced from more than 15 small-scale organic farmers. Founding volunteer Sheryl Ozinsky can usually be spotted hard at work in the veggie tent, refilling baskets and ensuring everyone is having a good time. And with more than 60 traders, and about 2 500 visitors every Saturday, it’s a non-stop flurry of activity.
Get started with a quick breakfast from one of the artisanal traders, then if the little ones are restless let them join in with some fun crafts while you browse. Feel free to chat to the vendors about their produce, ask them about their curing processes and “freely foraging fowls” and admire their beautiful breads.
Over the past few years there’s been a move towards encouraging consumers to ask questions about the food they’re buying, with a view to becoming more environmentally conscious. This market is a great place to start.
Volunteer-managed non-profit, The Oranjezicht City Farm focuses on celebrating local food and community. It’s located on an old bowling green that dates back to the 1950s, and forms part of the original Oranje Zigt farm that was established in 1709. One of the aims is to revive that piece of the city’s heritage – build social cohesion, develop skills and teach people about food and the environment.
Whether you’re keen to do a quick dash in and out for staples, or you’re in the mood for a long lazy morning with fantastic views, it’s a good way to escape and experience a little of what farm life has to offer, while the city heaves, a stone’s throw away. It’s invigorating, and I went home with a box brimming with spinach, beetroot, leeks, carrots and red cabbages – which made for a deliciously healthy week of dinners indeed.
l www.OZCF.co.za