Kiwi Cusine part 2: Farmer's Markets.... and Farmer Linz

Last weekend I was able to explore not one but TWO farmers markets--- one right here Saturday morning in Hawera (advertised NOWHERE, just happened to come up in conversation with one of the nurses earlier in the week), and another one in New Plymouth on Sunday.

Here are some of my purchases!

Front row-  Cow's milk Feta!
Back row Left to right:   Pickled beets, Honey Roasted Macadamia Nut Butter, Kiwi Raspberry Jam

With the exception of the jam, all products have been Linz taste-tested, and absolutely delcious.

In other culinary adventures, I cooked lamb for the first time!   I'm not ready for complicated racks or roasts yet, so I decided to start it simple with ground lamb burgers.   Used the feta on it---- SCRUMPTIOUS!

Lastly, while New Zealand has been a great adventure thus far, I have to admit- I do have my days of feeling quite lonely.   A good friend gave me a suggestion that growing some plants from seed may help.

Beetroot, Cucumber, and Watermelon--- my new houseguests!

And, as a bonus, my favorite tramping buddy showed up at my doorstep with a tomato plant this afternoon!    Doctor Linz by day, Farmer Linz by night :)

I'll keep you updated of their progress!  Fresh veggies by Christmas hopefully!