We arrived in Madison (Madtown to locals) last week and everything we heard about it being the foodiest of foodie towns is true.
On Saturday, we spent hours at the farmers’ market, which is the largest in the nation and voted the best by Eating Well Magazine. It’s a cornucopia of local treats, winding around the spectacular backdrop of the state capitol building.
Of course, there is the Wisconsin cheese. My favorite is a cave- aged cheddar from a nearby farm. Cheese curds are a big deal, which I haven’t quite figured out. Apparently they “squeak” in your mouth if they are fresh. The brussel sprouts, (edible knots still on the trunk they came from), bright sunflowers, smoked lake trout, yellow tomatoes, and piles of green beans are some of our early finds. We had the best red onions I’ve ever tasted–sweet but sharp, and a great topping to fresh spinach salad with strawberries.
Our kitchen is still full of boxes, but we brought home our treasures and that night made a first meal together in our new home.