There’s no better way to explore foods, teach kids the joy of trying new things, and bringing them just a little closer to the sources of what we eat than signing up for a Community Supported Agriculture or CSA plan. Once you do, you not only receive a weekly or bi-monthly box full of freshly picked in-season fruits and veggies from a farm located in the region, you often get hints and suggestions about what to do with that farm-fresh produce.
Checking out the farm.
Most CSAs drop boxes off at locations around the city for families to come and pick up. But many invite CSA members to visit the farm for pick-up. This farm to table option not only helps small farms, it allows you and your kids to try a few unfamiliar items you might pass by in the grocery story.
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During uncertain times, supporting local farmers becomes even more crucial. Eat Local First is launching its 2025 CSA Finder to help families connect with local farms and CSA subscriptions near them. The nonprofit group is also holding a giveaway, with the winner receiving $200 toward a CSA. In Washington, more than 40 farms offer SNAP/EBT benefits and various subscription options.
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Joining a farm’s CSA is one of the most significant ways consumers can support local farmers.
“Supporting local farms has never been more important. By signing up for a CSA, you’re not just filling your kitchen with fresh, local food—you’re directly supporting those who grow it, ensuring food security for your community,” said Maressa Valliant, Eat Local First director.
Amy Frye, of the CSA Boldly Grown Farm, add that buying directly from farmers is a good education for kids: “CSA members forge a relationship with the farmers who nourish their family, gaining a greater understanding of where their food comes from, how it’s grown, and what it takes to go from seed to plate,” Frye said.
Expanding family tastes
My kids looked skeptical the first time we received several kohlrabi bulbs in our CSA box. But the tasty recipe for kohlrabi pancakes that arrived in the same box turned made this odd looking veggie one of our favorites.
Kohlrabi Pancakes
Ingredients
- 3 heaping cups grated kohlrabi
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/2cup oat or almond flower
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat flower
- 2 teaspoon Everything Bagel spice mix from Trader Joes
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 eggs – lightly beaten
- oil for cooking
Instructions
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Remove kohlrabi skin, grate and then squeeze the kohlrabi to remove excess water
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Mix kohlrabi and onion, flours, spices and lightly beaten eggs to create batter.
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Spoon up mix into pancakes for and drop into heated oil.
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Cook pancakes in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until rust colored. Serve with sour cream!
Check out these CSAs
Many CSA businesses offer options to add meat, poultry, eggs and flowers to your order too. Check out these local farms for pick-up and home delivery options throughout the Seattle area:
Clean Greens Farm and Market
If you purchase a fall harvest box from this Black-owned nonprofit based in Seattle’s Central District, a donation will be made to a family in need.
Sky Island Farm
This 15-acre farm in Hoquiam, winner of the 2020 Tilth Alliance Farmer of the Year award, offers vegetables, fruit, flowers and herbs in its boxes.
Tonnemaker Valley Farm
Tonnemaker specializes in 100% certified organic produce from the Sammamish Valley and offers bi-weekly deliveries of fruits and vegetables.
Local Roots Farm
If you’re not sure about committing to a CSA, consider purchasing a stand-alone box and get a taste of what this Snoqualmie River valley farm offers.
Cheryl Murfin contributed to this article.
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