organic Archives - Community Food Co-op

Is Your Garden Ready for Spring?

July crops are shown blooming at Uprising Organics.

It may seem chilly in the Pacific Northwest but spring starts next month. Time to prepare your garden! Luckily, the Community Food Co-op has your essential gardening tips and tricks to get you ready.

Getting Ready for Spring

Step 1: Clean your annual flower beds and vegetable beds. This means pulling any dead annual plants, removing dead growth, pulling weeds, and revitalizing your mulch and soil. This is also a great time to edge your garden beds, reducing overgrowth into your garden.

Step 2: Start some Uprising Seeds indoors. Onions in particular do well when started indoors in February and March. A few others that do well indoors are parsley, summer cabbage, tomatoes, and peppers. Indoor planting kits can be found in our produce sections. Our go-to list for planting times is Uprising Seeds’ Maritime Northwest planting guide.

Step 3: Plant bare-root roses and fruit trees, and finish pruning existing rose bushes and fruit trees. By pruning your plants while they are still dormant, they can focus on creating new, healthy growth once the warm weather arrives.

Step 4: Once you’ve pruned, use a dormant spray on roses and fruit trees. Dormant spray will save you from a bug infestation in mid-spring or even later in the season. This is just one effective way to protect your plants from overwintering pests such as larvae!

Step 5: Harvest cool-season vegetables before they bolt! Keep an eye on the temperature. If we have a sudden rise in heat, your cool-season crops may not make it.

Step 6: Transfer any tubers or corms you’ve stored into pots. It is least disruptive to your plants to transfer them while they are still tubers or corms, before they bloom. Then, you can water them occasionally and wait for them to bloom in the spring.

Step 7: Start dividing your perennials. Before dividing your perennials, ensure the plants are well watered. Then, shake off any excess soil on the roots and pull or cut the plant to divide it. Finally, replant each section. One rule of thumb is to divide your perennials every three years. By dividing your perennials, you’re allowing more space for the plant to grow and to gain nutrients.

Uprising Seeds

Uprising Seeds is a small, family-run, and certified organic seed farm. They produce over 70% of the seeds they sell at their home farm, Uprising Organics, just north of Bellingham. The remainder of their varieties are sourced from family farms in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho.

Uprising Seeds’ ideal vision of seed sustainability involves farmers and gardeners as the stewards of the varieties that they depend on. They are committed to strengthening the public commons of seed genetics by working to preserve and improve open-pollinated varieties keeping biodiversity strong through adaptability and resilience. Support this local brand today at the Co-op!

Crops in a field are shown blooming at Uprising Organics.

2023 Supplement Sale

Members Save 30%

Different supplements sit on a white background including collagen, omega 3s, and mushrooms.

The Co-op’s annual supplement sale is a great way for members to start the new year with wellness, and stock up on must-haves. Our Wellness Managers picked out some of our most popular products for you.

Probiotics

A healthy microbiome is important for your overall health. The Co-op has a variety of Garden of Life probiotics that support your immune system and digestive health. Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily is a unique formula with 30 billion CFU of beneficial probiotics made from diverse raw probiotic strains that are resistant to stomach acid and bile for daily digestive and immune system support.

Omega-3

Omega-3 supports heart and brain health. The Nordic Naturals’ Ultimate Omega is one of the Co-op’s most sought after products. It’s made exclusively from 100% wild-caught sardines and anchovies with a fresh lemon taste. All Nordic Naturals’ fish oil products are non-GMO and third-party tested, and are Friend of the Sea (FOS) certified.

Vitamin D3

The sun is one of the best sources for Vitamin D and the short days of Bellingham winters often leave us lacking. Vitamin D helps strengthen your immune system and promotes bone and tissue health. The Co-op’s brand of Vitamin D3 1000 IU, is vegetarian, and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is free from the top eight allergens.

Immune Support

Zand Immunity Elderberry Zinc Immunity are easy-to-eat gummies and one of the best selling immunity supports at the Co-op. This daily defense is made with European Elderberry with added zinc and vitamin C. This powerful combination plays an important role in immune system support to keep you and your whole family starting the new year strong.

Adaptogens

Fungi Perfecti Lion’s Mane Memory Support is designed to support memory and cognition. Lion’s Mane is well-known as “The Smart Mushroom” for its support of brain health. What you might not know is that Lion’s Mane has also been shown to support nervous system health by increasing Nerve Growth Factor, as well as supporting a calm mind for a balanced mood and better sleep. Olympia, Washington based Fungi Perfecti is a family-owned business dedicated to promoting the cultivation of high-quality gourmet and medicinal mushrooms.

Lion's Mane supplement is shown next to Lion's Mane mushrooms.

Collagen

In addition to collagen, which supports healthy hair, nails, skin, bones and joints, Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptides powder boasts hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. These powerhouse ingredients provide glowing wellness benefits such as moisturizing skin and reducing inflammation. Vital Proteins is an industry leader in collagen powders and a Certified B Corporation.

The sale ends January 10. Shop now!

Supplements and their ingredients are spilled out on a table.

The Perfect Gifts from the Body Care Sale

A myriad of body care items sit on a wooden table with a red and white stocking waiting to be gifted.

The Co-op’s December body care sale is the perfect way to purchase your holiday gifts and stocking stuffers, and save money. We’ve selected some of our most popular items to help you get started.

Elevate Your Bath

Love Bath Salt Remedy

The Love epsom salt bath is naturally made with organic essential oils created to tantalize your senses and lift your spirit. It is a cheerful bath remedy and one of Shepard Moon Concoctions’ top selling blends. Shepard Moon Concoctions uses only the highest-quality, therapeutic-grade, natural ingredients in all their products. They are handmade, paraben-free, petroleum-free, gluten-free, and vegan.

Bath bombs and salts with stocking on a wooden table

Ginger and Mint Invigorating Aromatherapy Foam Bath

Aura Cacia’s Invigorating Ginger and Mint awakens the senses with the zesty combination of revitalizing ginger and refreshing peppermint essential oils. Aura Cacia’s foam baths are crafted with jojoba oil and gentle coconut-derived surfactants to leave the skin soft and smooth.

Serenity Bath Bomb

The Soul Spring Calming + Centering Serenity Bath Bomb is made with the perfect balance of lavender, sandalwood, and Hemp CBD. All Soul Spring products are made without any parabens, phenoxyethanol, sulfates, PEGs, propylene glycol, petroleum products, artificial colors, or synthetic fragrances.

Plastic-Free Sustainable Shampoo and Condition Bars That Are TSA Approved!

Brixy Coconut Vanilla Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

Brixy bars are made for hair care enthusiasts seeking plastic-free alternatives. The shampoo and conditioner bars are solid, making them perfect for air travel. The coconut vanilla offers a luxuriously sudsy experience formulated with coconut oil, argan oil, and provitamin B5 for strong and healthy looking hair.

Winter Hand Relief

Lime Blossom Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter Hand Cream

Andalou Naturals hand cream uses organic coconut water, fair trade shea and cocoa butter that absorb quickly, leaving your hands nourished and protected. Andalou Naturals is a woman-owned business that donates proceeds from product sales to support non-profit organizations centered on women and girls’ empowerment.

Gardener’s Hand Lotion

Hand screams sit in an out of a stocking on a wooden table

Cold weather, travel, and frequent hand washing can leave your hands dry and in need of extra attention. Island Thyme Botanicals Gardener’s Hand Lotion is a special floral skin soother for your hard working hands. Island Thyme products are botanically-based, made in small batches on their farm and apothecary on San Juan Island.

Booda Butter All-In-One Daily Moisturizer

A Co-op staple, Booda Butter is a blend of gentle yet powerful natural ingredients for deep, long-lasting moisture. The cocoa aroma is sure to please. Booda Butter products are organic, vegan, hypo-allergenic, wax-free, and have no added fragrance.

Gift Ready, No Wrapping Required

Samish Bay Soaps Trio

Samish Bay Soaps has packaged three of their popular body soaps together for easy gifting. Lemongrass and oats, lemon zip, and their cheerful blend are all made in Bellingham using only plant-derived, pure essential oils and herbs.

Moon Valley Organics Skin Essentials Collection

An Orange Spice Cleansing Body Bar, Moon Melt Lotion Bar, and Herbal Lip Balm festively wrapped up and ready to gift from Whatcom County’s Moon Valley Organics. These three products were developed to nourish your body and be positive for the environment.

Beard Grooming Kit

Badger’s Beard Grooming Kit contains an organic beard balm and organic beard oil for a healthy, well-groomed beard. Beard oil nourished the beard and skin with jojoba and babassu oils. Follow the Beard Oil with the Beard Balm, a daily, leave-in conditioner and styling aid that moisturizes with a light, non-greasy feel.

Everything You Need For Traveling

The Co-op has travel sizes of many of our most popular products to help get you through the airport in a flash. Our recommendations to cover your basic needs include:

EO Organic French Lavender Hand Sanitizer

Keep hands clean and refreshed with a 2 oz travel size hand sanitizer spray. The soothing lavender scent helps create a sense of calm to help make your travels safe and relaxing. It is 99.9% effective against most common germs.

Airplane essentials sit in a travel bag.

Himalaya Botanique Toothpaste

Neem and Pomegranate help fight plaque, brighten your teeth, and leave your mouth feeling clean and freshed. Himalaya Botanique offers a rich, foamy texture and great taste without compromising on cleaning or health. The travel size is less than an ounce, free from fluoride, triclosan, SLS, and gluten.

Everyone Coconut + Lemon 3in1 Soap

The 2 oz, travel size is a do-it-all cleanser for your bath, body, and hair. The brightness of lemon and the calming sweetness of coconut combine for a lovely all-over balance.

Everyone Coconut + Lemon Nourishing Lotion

Pair your 3in1 Soap with the Coconut + Lemon 2in1 travel size lotion for complete body care. This bright and uplifting lotion is light, moisturizing and perfect for your hands and body. Fewer bottles means easier routines and more time for life’s little pleasures no matter where you’re headed.

Historical Remedies Homeopathic Stress Mints

Homeopathic lozenges help to relieve physical and mental tension, settle digestion, and restore energy during travel or the hectic moments of the holidays. These peppermint lozenges from Historial Remedies are vegan and gluten-free.

Shop Small: A Gift Guide

Support the Co-op on Small Business Saturday and buy some fun items for your holiday gifts. The Co-op has unique items for gifts, stocking stuffers, and for yourself. Supporting the only locally-owned grocery store in Bellingham helps strengthen our community, local food network, and local producers.

We’ve selected some of our favorite gift items for everyone on your list.

For the Home Decorator

Holiday Wreaths

Wreaths make a welcoming statement to any entry. Skyflower Botanicals’ flowers and foliage are grown on a small, organic, and woman-owned farm along the South Fork of the Nooksack River. Their conifer greenery is responsibly harvested or purchased locally.

A holiday wreath with some blue and green foliage hangs on a wooden fixture.

Darling Orchids in a Ceramic Pot

An elegant, 2-inch orchid in a stylish white ceramic pot makes a lovely addition to any home. The Co-op sells both white and colorful orchids, all potted, for easy gift giving.

Danica Heirloom Mugs

Hot chocolate and eggnog tastes better out of one of the delightful patterns adorning Danica Heirloom mugs.

A pinecone candle and a tree candle sit in a holiday pine gift bag. A red mug sits on the table with a white orchid. Pine needles are tossed around as decoration.

They are handmade, sourced with care, and dishwasher and microwave safe. A percentage of all Danica profits is donated to Education without Borders, a Canadian non-profit organization that provides educational opportunities for disadvantaged and at-risk children in South Africa and Canada.

Holiday Candles from Sunbeam Candles

Sunbeam candles come in a variety of festive, decorative shapes with a focus on sustainability. All Sunbeam candles are hand-crafted, incorporate natural and wholesome ingredients, are made with 100% renewable energy, and use carbon neutral shipping. Let your holidays burn bright with their pine cones, trees, and seasonal designs.

For the Foodie

San Juan Island Sea Salt Popcorn Blend

San Juan Island Sea Salt’s Popcorn Blend offers a nutty, cheesy, and delicious accompaniment to more than just popcorn. Some of our favorite uses are on pasta, avocado toast, and eggs. Unique and tasty, San Juan Island Sea Salt is made from solar-evaporated sea salt from the San Juan Islands.

Gilbert Cellars 2018 Left Bank Red Wine

For the wine aficionados in your life, the Yakima-based Gilbert Cellars Left Bank Red Wine scores 90 points and comes gift wrapped. It is a full-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère with notes of black currant and plum. It is a balanced wine for holiday meals, appetizers, and makes a thoughtful gift for your host.

Dark Chocolate Coffee Bark from Chocolate Necessities

The pacific northwest is known for its coffee consumption and what better gift than coffee and chocolate? Local chocolatier, Chocolate Necessities, make a holiday bark with a Northwest twist — coffee! Chocolate Necessities Dark Chocolate Coffee Bark covers the chocolate and coffee loves alike.

A bottle of wine and some chocolate bark sit in a Hanukkah gift bag.

For the Spa Lover

Studio Oh! Cosmetic bag

Studio Oh!’s portable, water-resistant cosmetic bags highlight unique and original artwork with witty, whimsical designs. The Co-op sells bags in a variety of shapes and designs that are fully lined with secure metal zippers. These bags are fun for all ages and while technically a cosmetic bag, work well for many purposes.

Samish Bay Soaps

Locally made Samish Bay Soaps are individually gift-wrapped in winter flannel or shaped as snowflakes without the wrapping. They come in a variety of seasonal fragrances; perfect for stocking stuffers. Samish Bay Soaps are made simply, using only pure essential oils and herbs. Their products are environmentally friendly, cruelty free, and free from chemical fragrances and colorants. Every batch is created, cut, and packaged by hand in Bellingham.

Island Thyme Moisturizers

Cold weather, travel, and frequent hand washing can leave your hands dry and your face in need of extra attention. Island Thyme lavender rose cream is a deep moisturizer for both your body and face. The 2 ounce glass jars are TSA compliant and at the top of everyone’s gift list. Island Thyme products are botanically-based, made in small batches on their farm and apothecary on San Juan Island.

Moon Valley Organics Lip Balms

The Co-op sells Whatcom County-based Moon Valley Organics lip balms in gift ready packs and individually. These balms make great gifts for anyone who spends time outdoors and needs extra lip protection.

Moon Valley Organics follows the highest organic standards with a mission to protect pollinators. Help the bees while treating your friends and family to lip balms in a variety of healing essences.

Badger Aromatherapy Travel Kit

Experience all the necessary aromatherapy balms to get you through the holidays in one convenient travel kit. The travel kit features five essential oil profiles carefully formulated to refresh, de-stress, and inspire. Badger aromatherapy is certified organic and cruelty free.

For Everyone

Co-op Gift Cards

A Co-op gift card is the quintessential gift for the person who has everything. Stop by the service desk at either store and pick out a gift card in any amount. We have a wide selection of cards to drop your gift card into. We can also do large quantities of gift cards to cover your employees, service providers, or any group that you may need to purchase for.

Maggie’s Organics Snuggle Socks

Soft, comfortable, washable organic merino wool. This is a gift for anyone experiencing the Pacific Northwest winters. Help them keep cozy with socks produced by humanely-raised sheep and skilled workers. These comfortable socks are ethical and sustainable, as well as made in the USA.

Watercolor paper, socks, and a puzzle sit by some twinkle lights on a wooden table.

Eeboo Deluxe Watercolor Paper

This high-quality, Italian watercolor paper is the perfect canvas for your watercolor art. The extra thick and absorbent paper has a natural pH, is chlorine-free, and completely recyclable and biodegradable. The paper books are glue bound for easy removal of the pages that makes painting your masterpiece easy and portable.

Puzzles from eeboo

Woman-owned eeboo makes high-quality, beautiful puzzles, games, and activities that reflect family, community, and inclusion. The 36-piece mini puzzle is a favorite for stocking stuffers or traveling. Wanting more of a challenge? We have puzzles with up to 100 pieces that feature equally beautiful scenes.

All of the gifts sit on a table with wrapping paper and pine needles in the sunlight.

Four Approaches to Cooking Your Thanksgiving Turkey

An oven-roasted turkey sits on some lemons ready to be enjoyed for a holiday dinner.

Should I brine my turkey? Should I let my spouse fry the whole bird this year? How do I achieve a quicker cooking time?

We have some turkey-cooking techniques for everyone from the Thanksgiving chef to the person who begrudgingly took on the challenge this year.

Oven Roast

Oven roasting is the most well-known route but there are tips and tricks to make this an even smoother, tastier technique. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, frill-free recipe, try this easy herb-roasted turkey.

Looking for a moist, slightly more complex turkey? Try butter or mayo!

The tried and true method: compound butter.

To make your turkey with compound butter, mix together the ingredients below then rub the butter both on top of and underneath the skin. You want a generous amount of the compound butter on each part of your turkey.

This butter will add moisture and flavor to every bite of your Thanksgiving centerpiece.

Compound Butter for Turkey

1 stick salted butter, room temperature

¼ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. minced fresh thyme

1 tsp. minced fresh sage leaves

3 cloves finely minced garlic

1 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley

2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary leaves

Roasted Cut Up Turkey Platter For Thanksgiving, turkey breast on a platter with sage and oranges

This year’s fad: a mayonnaise base.

Chefs who write for the New York Times, the Huffington Post, and more have declared mayo the prime base for an herb-filled turkey rub this year.

Simply sub in mayonnaise for the butter in our compound butter recipe above to try it out! Home cooks suggest this method is even easier than the butter, because they don’t have to remember to leave the butter out overnight to come to room temperature. With claims of an even more delectable turkey than one made with butter, we’ll be testing this recipe in our homes this year!

A quicker route to oven roasting: spatchcock.

Spatchcocking your turkey is a fancy word for removing some of the bones so it lays flat on a pan, ready to be roasted using any of the three techniques above. Here are the two steps to spatchcocking your bird in detail:

Remove the backbone: Place the turkey, breast-side down, on a cutting board. Use sharp kitchen shears to cut along one side of the backbone. Repeat on the other side. Discard the backbone or reserve it for making stock.
Break the breastbone: Use the palm of your hand to press firmly onto the breastbone until you hear a crack. Flatten the spatchocked turkey as much as possible.

Folks who swear by spatchcocking suggest the turkey cooks more quickly and evenly. Curious? Try out this recipe.

Brine

Many cooks swear by brining a turkey to get the best flavor. Brining is meant to break down the toughness of the meat while also adding flavor. The only drawback? The turkey has to sit in the brine for a minimum of 24 hours. If you have time to plan ahead, we have two brining techniques for you.

Buttermilk Brine

This buttermilk brine adds extra moisture to your turkey. Even the leftovers won’t be dry! To use a wet brine you’ll boil the brine ingredients and let them cool before putting the turkey and the brine in an airtight bag.

This brine only asks that you leave the turkey in the solution for one day, turning occasionally. Then, you rinse the turkey, rub it with butter, and roast it in the oven. Our compound butter above can be used in these final steps.

Dry Brine

This dry brine is easy to do, just season your turkey, cover it in plastic wrap, and let it sit in the fridge for two days. The recipe only calls for salt, pepper, onion, and celery, but we’d recommend a few other seasonings too. Throw in some rosemary, thyme, and honey salt for some classic Thanksgiving flavors. Let the turkey sit in the brine for a third day for a stronger flavor.

Air Fryer

While deep frying a turkey was a trend of the past, air frying some turkey is of current interest!

Air frying your turkey is great if you’re having a smaller crowd and cooking pieces as opposed to a whole bird. Here is a recipe for an air-fried turkey breast. In the air fryer the breast only takes 35 to 40 minutes to cook, and a compound butter can be used to add extra juices to the meat. Make sure to air fry pieces of turkey with the bone still in for more flavor and moisture as frying can dry out meat more quickly than roasting.

Grill

If crispy skin is of the utmost importance to you, try grilling your turkey. This technique, while uncommon, is great for large gatherings — it keeps the oven free for other dishes and spreads out the guests so they don’t all crowd the kitchen!

With crispy skin, you can brush a delicious glaze over the turkey after it’s done to add extra flavor without compromising the texture. Try brushing the turkey with maple syrup, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Grilling a turkey takes about the same time as roasting one, so you aren’t losing any relaxing hours here.

Do you still have questions about your turkey, such as how long to cook it or how many pounds you need? Check out this blog with portion breakdowns and more for your Thanksgiving dinner.

Our Guide to Holiday Turkeys Available at the Co-op

Tukey is the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving, and choosing the right turkey is important for your meal’s success. With so many types of turkey to choose from, determining the right one can be difficult. Let us help you along with our easy guide to the types of Thanksgiving turkeys we have available for sale.

All the turkeys available for purchase at the Co-op are from Mary’s Turkeys. Mary’s Turkeys is a third-generation family-owned and operated farm focused on the animal husbandry and welfare of birds raised for consumption. We have three turkeys to choose from for your Thanksgiving dinner: antibiotic-free, organic, and heritage. Order your turkey in-store or online today.

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Mary’s Antibiotic-Free Turkey

Mary's Antibiotic-Free Turkeys are raised on a high-protein diet, which provides the optimal amount of nutrients for the turkey to grow. Mary’s Natural Turkeys are free of antibiotics, animal byproducts, hormones, preservatives, and additives. These turkeys are a flavorful and beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table.

Mary’s Organic Turkey

Mary’s Organic Turkeys are fed a premium diet of USDA certified organic ingredients and are free of antibiotics, animal byproducts, hormones, preservatives, and additives. Certified organic turkeys easily roast for moist and delectable dark and light meat. Organic turkeys are always delicious and cook lovely.

Mary’s Heritage Turkey

Mary's Heritage turkeys resemble the first breed of turkeys that existed in the United States. They breed naturally as they run and fly on the farm. Their increased level of activity results in larger thigh meat and slightly less breast meat than is found on a typical turkey. All of these traits, along with an air chilling packing process, result in a superior tasting turkey that cooks faster than other birds. Heritage turkeys are free of antibiotics, animal byproducts, hormones, preservatives, and additives. Heritage turkeys have a rich, satisfying taste, and tender, moist meat. If you prefer dark meat, you will love the flavor of a heritage turkey.

Click here to order your turkey online

Thanksgiving Turkey Alternatives

Not a turkey fan? Accommodating dietary restrictions? We’ve got you covered with nine turkey alternatives — both plant-based and meat-forward!

PLANT-BASED

Plant-Based Holiday Roasts

In-house Vegan Holiday Loaf

This delicious housemade loaf is made with chickpeas, oats, vegetables, and mushrooms then glazed with a sauce full of classic Thanksgiving ingredients! Omnivores and herbivores alike can enjoy this mouthful of cozy, fall flavors. Truly a Co-op staff favorite!

A plate of vegan Thanksgiving food, such as plant-based loaf and cranberry sauce, ready to be enjoyed for Thanksgiving

Field Roast

Beloved plant-based brand Field Roast has two holiday roast options this season!

The first is a rich and fragrant centerpiece, the Hazelnut Cranberry Roast. This sweet yet bold roast is wrapped in flaky puff pastry and is the ideal balance to salty potatoes and stuffing.

This roast serves eight, and is typically $18.99 but you can get it at the Community Food Co-op for $14.99 for a limited time.

The Celebration Roast is an even better deal and features a more savory flavor profile. The roast is enhanced by the rich and earthy porcini mushroom gravy included in this dish. Not only does Field Roast recommend this roast as a Thanksgiving centerpiece, but also for sandwiches! Yum!

This roast serves eight, and is typically $18.99 but is $12.99 for a limited time.

Tofurky

Tofurky — a household, vegan name! Not only do they have a roast for you this season, but they have a whole feast.

A savory blend of wheat and tofu, this roast is filled with a flavorful wild rice and bread crumb stuffing, ready to be basted, roasted, carved and devoured by all. This roast serves five, is usually $17.49 but is $11.99 for a limited time, and has been around since 1995.

The Tofurky feast serves six and includes much more than just one roast! It also includes stuffing, gravy, and a brownie for $34.99. This meal is $24.99 for a limited time.

Gardein

Gardein has a plant-based ‘turk’y’ stuffed with a tart cranberry dressing. This Savory Stuffed Turk’y is served with a warm, savory gravy to balance the tart stuffing.

This vegan option serves five people and is regularly $19.99 but will be $13.99 for a limited time.

Quorn

This roast is for all the vegetarians out there! Quorn’s Turkey-Style Roast is gluten free and has 15 grams of protein. Perfect for a group of four and only $7.99 for a limited time at the Community Food Co-op, this savory-forward roast is great for a meatless Thanksgiving dinner.

Plant-Based Ham

Tofurky

A plant-based main course perfect for any holiday, this ham has a tender, smoky flavor, complimented by a sweet, tangy glaze. We’ve heard positive reviews from vegans and meat-eaters alike.

This ham serves five people and is regularly $17.49 but is $11.99 at the Community Food Co-op for a limited time only.

ALTERNATIVE MEATS

Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon

Our wild-caught, Alaskan sockeye salmon is previously frozen and sold as a whole filet. Sockeye is rich in texture and high in flavor; a northwest favorite anytime of year. Need some inspiration? Roast your salmon in butter for classic Thanksgiving flavors with an innovative protein.

Steamed salmon with fresh herbs and lemon ready to be enjoyed for Thanksgiving dinner

Our filets are about 1-1.5 pounds each and serve two to four people. Sockeye salmon is $16.99 per pound.

Chicken

Roast chicken is the perfect alternative for a smaller crowd, especially if you want the gorgeous roasting photos without the turkey! You can still enjoy the roasted vegetable bed, basting, and carving experiences of a turkey with this more manageable alternative.

First time roasting a chicken? Here’s a little inspiration.

Allergen-Friendly Oatmeal Cookies — Four Ways!

As the summer heat wanes and the cool mornings return, school is back in action. Parents are busy packing lunches and offering after-school snacks. With so many snack items on the market, it’s hard to pick good, affordable choices. If you throw common food sensitivities into the mix, then there really aren’t many options available. So what is a parent to do? I have a solution!

If cost is not of concern then these are some good choices. All of the below are free of the top four allergens (gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts), and contain quality ingredients:

Four seedy coconut cookies sit on a plate next to some school supplies.

1) GoMacro Kids Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

2) DINO Bars

3) Cerebelly Bars

4) New Primal Snack Mates Meat Sticks

5) Chomps Meat Stick

However, as a mother and registered dietitian, I love to take on recipe challenges. Can I make an easy, simple, and allergen-friendly baked treat that even my preschooler approves of? Yes!

So here it is. A little oatmeal cookie, low in added sugar, made with simple ingredients, and best of all, super adaptable.

These cookies make a great addition to a balanced lunch or along with some additional protein (hummus, yogurt, cheese, meat stick) for a balanced snack. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for about five days. The cookies do tend to soften over time. To freshen up, simply toast in the toaster for a few minutes. These oatmeal cookies also freeze well in case you want to double or triple the recipe.

To show you how adaptable this recipe is, I have created a base recipe with four different options. I tried to keep the base recipe as simple as possible. However, a few more options are:

Add a tablespoon of nut or seed butter for a little extra protein and fat.
Swap out the regular sugar for coconut sugar.
Drizzle with a homemade yogurt icing for an extra special finish.

Every batch makes about 10 mini cookies. Our favorite one is the Seedy Coconut!

DRY INGREDIENTS

1 cup gluten-free organic quick oats

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder

¼ teaspoon Redmond’s sea salt

WET INGREDIENTS

1 small banana (greenish preferred), mashed (~1/3 cup)

3 tablespoons non-dairy milk of choice (omit for the Spiced Apple version)

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

Mix together the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix together the wet ingredients in another, larger bowl. Greenish bananas are preferred in the wet ingredients because they act more like an additional starch or binder, and provide less of a banana flavor to the cookie which allows the other ingredients to shine. Transfer the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until combined. The dough shouldn't be too wet. Turn the oven on to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place the dough into the freezer while the oven heats up to temp. This will make it easier to scoop out the batter. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

When the oven is preheated, scoop out the dough to make 10 evenly sized cookies. We used a tablespoon cookie scoop. Press the cookies a little with a spoon or with your hand to make a more uniform “cookie” shape. Bake for 15-17 minutes. Then remove them from the oven and let them cool before handling.

VERSION ONE: Chocolate Chip

Add 2 tablespoons of chopped semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dry ingredients. Alternatively you can use mini chips to avoid chopping. Allergen caution: some semi-sweet chocolate chip brands contain added milk - so just double check!

VERSION TWO: Seedy Coconut

Add 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds (or finely chopped pumpkin seeds) and 2 tablespoons of finely-shredded, unsweetened dried coconut to the dry mixture.

VERSION THREE: Carrot Cake

Finely grate ¼ cup of carrots (the finer, the better) and add them to the wet ingredients. Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and 1 tablespoon chopped raisins to the dry ingredients.

VERSION FOUR: Spiced Apple

Finely grate ½ of a medium apple. There will be a lot of apple juice. This will replace your 3 tablespoons of milk from the base recipe. Stir into the wet ingredients. Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of finely-chopped dried apples or dried cranberries to the dry mixture.

How To Make the Easy Yogurt Icing:

Mix together 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or another thick, non-dairy yogurt together with ¼ cup powdered sugar until smooth. Spoon into a zip-close bag, cut off a small corner, and drizzle over the cookies.

Enjoy!

By Selva Wohlgemuth, Co-op News Contributor

Selva Wohlgemuth is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and owner of Happy Belly Nutrition in Bellingham, Washington. She specializes in gut health and has an in-depth knowledge of women's health. She is an avid outdoorswoman and mother.

Celebrating Red Wine Day with some Co-op Favorites

August 28 is Red Wine Day! There's no better way to celebrate than with a good meal and a gorgeous wine to pair.

Not sure where to begin in the vast red wine aisle? We've got you covered. Below are three late-summer recommendations from Tim, our wine expert. We have something for every budget and preference.

In general, Tim suggests a chillable red as we are still in the heat of summer.

Let us know what bottle of wine you're celebrating with on Instagram (@communityfoodcoop), Twitter (@TheCoopInBham), or Facebook.

Paul Dolan, Mendocino Zinfandel 2020, $17.99

This Zin has notions of rich berries, such as black raspberry, along with vanilla, pipe tobacco, spice cabinet, fresh plums, and orange peel tea. This wine is for those who enjoy a forward and concentrated wine, with a balance of zest from the fruit.

Paul Dolan Vineyards is located in Mendocino County and has rich biological diversity.

To go with this delectable Zin, we suggest sweet and spicy BBQ short ribs or Moroccan eggplant with tomato stew.

Zeni, Bardolino Classico 2020, $8.99

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, chillable red blend, look no further! This soft yet zesty bottle features notes of pie cherries, cocoa, red currant, Allspice, Earl Grey tea, and hibiscus.

The Zeni family has spent over 140 years producing fine wines in Verona. This blend in particular is produced from indigenous grapes in Lake Garda.

This summer-weight red pairs well with many dinners, including veggie burgers, pasta pomodoro, and seafood risotto. In addition, this bottle is a nice accompaniment to an antipasti platter.

Jean-Marc Burgaud, Beaujolais-Villages Lantignié 2020, $14.99

This red is medium-bodied and has energetic suggestions of Marionberry, pink peppercorn, rose hip, loamy beets, Morello cherry, elderflower, and stony minerals. This wine is anything but basic!

Since 1989, Jean-Marc Burgaud has produced wine using organic principles and traditional Burgundian methods. Jean-Marc Burgaud adapts the wine-making process with the changing of the seasons and grows on rich, granite soil.

Pair a glass or two of this with fresh-caught seared salmon — found at our seafood counter, any variety of burger, and roasted or grilled veggies.

First Milk Gouda: The Star of Your Summer Picnic

Stephanie — the Co-op's big cheese, the cheese department head that is — and Tim, our in-house wine expert, have come together to share an exclusive cheese and wine pairing.

The Art of Gouda

The Co-op is excited to announce that we have the Artikaas Youngsters First Milk Gouda. This very special cheese is made using traditional, sustainable methods going back 2,000 years. The Youngster First Milk Gouda is a semisoft cheese that is rich, creamy, and decadent. Artikaas makes an exceptional Gouda by collecting milk after the cows have their first taste of Holland’s tender spring grasses. Artikaas turns the cow’s rich, nutritious milk into an irresistibly smooth Gouda.

Artikaas is a sixth-generation, family-run cheesemaker in Holland. They use only the finest ingredients from local family farms. Each year the Co-op’s cheese department procures a limited allotment that is only available in stores for a short amount of time.

The cheese is released once a year and sells out quickly. We suggest using Gouda for your cheese board, snacking, slicing, and it is a superior melting cheese for a decadent grilled cheese sandwich.

Wine Pairing for Gouda

Such a special Gouda deserves the right wine to bring out the smooth, creamy flavors. Our panel of wine tasters selected the perfect wine to pair with the Artikaas Youngsters First Milk Gouda — a Foris Vineyards Fly-Over White. The 2017 Foris Vineyards Fly-Over White is a 50/50 blend of Riesling and Pinot Blanc. It is a zesty, pleasingly textured white from Oregon’s Rogue Valley. When you drink it, expect nicely-balanced elements of kiwi, honeydew melon, mineral, nectarine, fennel, Satsuma, and Bartlett pear. There’s just a touch of sweetness. The wine's acidity harmonizes and highlights the creaminess of the Gouda cheese.

Local Stone Fruits to Round Out the Pairing

The Artikaas Youngsters First Milk Gouda and the Foris Vineyards Fly-Over White pairing are a delight for your summer picnic or charcuterie board. Both are complemented by stone fruits, such as cherries, nectarines, plums, and peaches — all of which and more are in season, local, and organic right now at the Co-op.

You, your friends, and your family will appreciate enjoying the Artikaas Youngsters First Milk Gouda with a balanced wine and local stone fruits. One of the best ways to enjoy the summer is with a spring cheese.