Sometimes "local" can also mean "relational" when it comes to sourcing products that we just can't grow here in Western PA. This week's picture features the farm coop, Grupo Martir, from Colombia. They are responsible for the hard work that goes into growing the coffee beans for the Soren's Project Coffee from Commonplace Coffee. In the words from Commonplace:
"The Soren's Project coffee is from an 18 producer group, Grupo Martir. They all farm organically or are transitioning to fully organic. This transition is one of the primary reasons we chose this coffee. We want to recognize the risk, effort, and perseverance it takes to change farming practices.
The coffee itself is very approachable and balanced. Sweet, baking spices, and a balanced body. I find it to be the most chuggable coffee we have."
Since our only choice is to source coffee from far away, we are proud to support farmers that are growing organically and being paid a fair price for their efforts. Consider adding some of Soren's Project to your box this week. And if we run out, we'll be sure to replenish it in coming weeks.
BUTCHER BOX PACKAGING Starting this week, we plan to add a plastic liner to all of the butcher box orders. This way, we can reuse the packaging materials the same way we have been with the farm boxes. So if you receive a butcher box with a plastic liner, please take that out and then return the metalic/thermal liner and ice pack to us the next time (we still don't need the cardboard box from meat shares).
SHORTAGES/SUBSTITUTIONS We are always striving for 100% when it comes to fulfilling the customized requests of our customers. Most of the time it works out, but we certainly come across unexpected issues from time to time. When that happens, we will do our best to add a fair and generous substitution. When that is not possible, we will gladly add a credit on to your account that you can use to add/swap items in future boxes. Feel free to let us know if anything in your box is missing or not up to your expectations. We really do want you to love your Harvie Farms boxes!
CHEESE SHARE: BRUSCHEDDA FROM CLOVER CREEK CHEESE CELLAR We love the taste of fresh from the garden tomatoes, homegrown basil, and a touch of garlic. What could be tastier than this complete flavor of Bruschedda sliced on top of a freshly toasted baguette? Everyone comments, “Wow, that is good!” We love it melted on an open-faced sandwich, cubed in salads, and mixed with eggs for breakfast.
GRATITUDE As always, we really appreciate your support. So often we are blown away by the kindness and generosity of our members who find opportunities to go out of their way to help us out in one way or another. Thanks for spreading the love. Have a great week, and please stay safe out there!
--Neil Stauffer, on behalf of the Harvie Farms crew
p.s. One final note that we also added in a favorite cookbook as an extra you can purchase. It's called "Simply In Season", and as you might guess it's focused on approachable seasonal recipes. Look for it when you are customizing your box.
