Summer Field Guide 2023 - Issue 43

SUMMER 2023

The Fruits & Meats of Summer

Some of our favorite things about summer revolve around food—real, fresh ingredients and good, old-fashioned recipes, to be exact. From the ripest, juiciest fruits and veggies fresh from the farm to backyard barbecue feasts filled with fried chicken, grilled everything and cool desserts, our latest Field Guide—the one you hold in your hands —will help you make the most of these sweet summer months with timeless techniques, amazing artisan goods, mouthwatering recipes and more.

Issue 43

WRITING & EDITING

Lydia Humburg

Calista Marouk

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michelle Leal

Eric Warren

Summer 2023

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER, STYLIST & RETOUCHER

Victoria O’Brien

PHOTOGRAPHY

Michael Sylvester

Eric Warren

CORPORATE

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Rebecca Reichardt

MARKETING MANAGER

Marco Enriquez

SENIOR WEB DEVELOPER

Mark Eagleton

CHEF DE CUISINE

Casey Aaseth

CUSTOM SURFACES & SET BUILDING

Jeff Albright & Get ’er Done Team

PRODUCT & INFORMATION RESEARCH

Corporate Directors & Buying Team

reserved.

Not all items featured in this publication are available at all stores. We reserve the right to correct all printed and typographical errors.

Jose Torres

Director of Produce Operations

DON’T TELL BILL IN MEAT, but there’s a reason a rainbow of beautiful produce is the first thing you see when you walk in our stores. Summertime is renowned for its fruits of the season (literally!) and we pride ourselves on superior quality, freshness and flavor, great partnerships with our suppliers and farmers, and best of all, our knowledgeable associates who are always happy to help. It’s like a farmers’ market at your local grocery store! Just saying.

Bill Davis

Director of Meat Operations

DON’T TELL JOSE IN PRODUCE , but great meat is the true star of summer—it’s the first thing you think of when you think “BBQ,” after all. Ribeyes, brisket, salmon, you name it—we offer a huge selection of the best meats and seafood all year long. My best advice for a great grilling season? Make friends with your local Nugget Markets’ team of Butchers. They’ll hook you up with all the best cuts, let you know what’s on sale, slice it just how you want and even share great ideas on how to cook it. Come check us out and see for yourself!

a.k.a.

a.k.a.

Commander in Beef

King of Chlorophyll

What’s Growing On?

Summer is officially here, which means it’s time to celebrate a rainbow of fantastic fruits and veggies ripe for the picking! Keep reading to discover what produce is at its peak each month (Mother Nature permitting), along with fun facts and great ways to enjoy the fruits of the season.

July is Blueberry Month

Blueberries 3 Ways

Start your summer off on a sweet note with a bounty of tasty blueberries! Fresh, frozen or dried, these beautiful berries come with a wealth of health benefits so you can feel good about adding them to your salad, dessert or snack bag, or simply eating them by the handful.

According to…

...the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, 1 cup of blueberries contains:

Vitamin K

Low Calories

One serving (1 cup) of blueberries is only 80 calories.

Manganese

Manganese can help support energy production and bone development.

Vitamin C

The Vitamin C in blueberries can help support immunity, healthy skin and connective tissue.

Polyphenols

The Vitamin K in blueberries can help with regulating blood clotting and bone metabolism.

Fiber

The fiber in blueberries can help with heart health, digestive support and feeling full.

Polyphenols, including anthocyanins (a type of antioxidant), give blueberries their deep color.

1 2 3

Fresh Blueberries

Ripe, plump and juicy, there’s nothing quite like blueberries at the peak of freshness! Drop by our Produce Department to find bushels (figuratively speaking) of blueberries ready to enjoy fresh from the farm. Try adding these sweet sensations to your morning yogurt for a fun parfait or on top of a fruit-forward acai bowl. You can also add them to salads, desserts or cocktails for a pop of color and sweetness!

Frozen Blueberries

If you want the taste of fresh blueberries all year long, head to the freezer! Frozen blueberries are flash-frozen so they keep their flavor, shape and nutritional integrity on ice well after harvest. These cool berries are extremely versatile and are ideal for adding to smoothies or milkshakes, making waffles or energy bars, baking into your favorite dessert and even simmering to make a sweet sauce for savory dishes.

Miss Jones Baking Co. Blueberry Muffin & Bread Mix

Want to enjoy fresh-baked blueberry muffins in no time flat? Miss Jones Baking Co. has the answer! This local company from Corte Madera makes a handy dandy baking mix with 100% whole grains, 50% less sugar than leading brands, no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, 10 grams of protein per serving and, of course, bunches and bunches of actual blueberries! Just add milk, eggs and oil for blueberry baked goodness fresh from your oven.

Mariani Dried Wild Blueberries

These amazing mixes come in a variety of delicious flavors, but you can add blueberries to any of them for extra fruity flair!

For the ultimate anytime-anywhere convenience, dried blueberries are the way to go. Mariani, a local, family-owned company, offers a great selection of dried fruit, including their Dried Wild Blueberries that boast a burst of fruity flavor in each tiny berry. Small but mighty, dried blueberries are a great addition to everything from summer salads to fresh-baked scones, along with DIY granolas and trail mixes.

The More the Berrier!

Along with their Blueberry Muffin & Bread Mix, you can also get your bake on with these great products from Miss Jones Baking Co.!

• Banana Bread & Muffin Mix

• Cookie Mixes

• Cake Mixes

• Frostings

• Keto & Paleo Baking Mixes

FROM OUR GROCERY DEPARTMENT

FROM OUR PRODUCE DEPARTMENT

FROM OUR BULK DEPARTMENT

FROM OUR FROZEN FOODS DEPARTMENT

PRO TIP:

California Grown C

alifornia is known for a variety of fruits and vegetables all year long, but the summer crop is something extra special. Look for our Local and CA-Grown Lifestyle Icons to find seasonal produce from farms and orchards throughout our great state!

CA-Grown Cantaloupes

CA-Grown Blackberries

Moonlight Peaches & Nectarines

Get a taste of summer with juicy stone fruits grown in the San Joaquin Valley by farmers dedicated to sustainability.

Vierra Farms Black Watermelons

These unique black watermelons are super sweet, seedless and grown hyper-locally in West Sacramento!

Full Belly Farm Shishito Peppers

Spice things up with these (usually) mild peppers grown locally in Capay Valley on a 400-acre certified organic farm.

Local Lodi Bartlett Pears

Kick off California-grown pear season with sweet and versatile Bartletts, ideal for canning, cooking or eating fresh.

CA-Grown Vine Tomatoes

CA-Grown Strawberries & Whipped Cream with Beckmann's Shortcakes

Make fresh summer strawberries even better with Beckmann’s Shortcakes! These superb shortcakes are made locally in the Bay Area with old world tradition. Layer with copious strawberries and whipped cream for a simply delicious dessert!

Did you know a lot of our produce is available organic?

We’re thrilled to offer a wide selection of organic fruits, vegetables and other amazing foods, and the summer season brings out some of the best. Look for our Organic Lifestyle Icon to find organic goodies in our Produce Department and across our store!

Organic Red Plums

Organic Figs with Goat Cheese

Organic, Californiagrown Black, Brown, Kadota and Candy Striped Figs are all delicious on their own or stuffed with artisan cheese like Laura Chenel Original Fresh Goat Cheese for a stunning, bite-sized appetizer.

Wild River Organic Pluots

Organic Bell Peppers

A cross between a plum and an apricot, these organic pluots are grown by family farmers along the Yuba River in Marysville.

Full Belly Farm Organic Heirloom Tomatoes

This Yolo County organic farm grows a bounty of sustainable summer produce, including gorgeous heirloom tomatoes.

Full Belly Farm Organic Cherry Tomatoes

For something a little smaller, try Full Belly Farm’s organic cherry tomatoes, perfect for snacking or tossing in a salad.

Full Belly Farm Organic Melons

Soak in the sweet taste of summer with organic, locally grown melons. Try all their unique varieties to find your favorite!

Just Add Prosciutto

Sweet, savory, salty and sumptuous, fresh melon slices wrapped in thinsliced Prosciutto di Parma from our Kitchen are the perfect summer snack.

Peak of the Season

SEPTEMBER

As summer winds down and the weather begins to cool (fingers crossed), a lot of produce picks are at their very best. Visit our Produce Department to check out the late summer harvest of fruits and vegetables perfect for ending the season with a bang.

Designer Grapes

Green and red grapes are only the beginning! Treat your taste buds to Sapphire, Cotton Candy, Champagne, Concord and other seasonal picks.

Fuji Apples

Corn & Zucchini

Grilling is practically synonymous with summer, and fresh corn and zucchini are prime candidates for the barbecue.

Sweet, rich and salty with a warm cumin flare and touch of zesty citrus, this traditional Mexican-Style Street Corn is a great addition to any barbecue.

Keitt Mangos with Saltito Seasoning

These large, green mangos flourish in late summer with a creamy, luscious mouthfeel as sweet as sunshine. Want to take it to the next level? Spice things up with Saltito,

an all-natural, flavor-packed chile lime seasoning made with just three ingredients: pink Himalayan salt, fresh red chile peppers and real lime. Not just for mangos, try sprinkling this sensational seasoning on other fresh fruits, veggies, cocktails and more!

Preserving the Arts

How to Save It for Later

Savor summer flavors long after the seasons change with a little DIY fun! Pickling and preserving have long been used to keep fruits and vegetables good for the long haul, and while classic canning can take a while to master, these refrigerator versions are as easy as pie (and just as delicious).

Jam Session

Jam

thick, spreadable, made with chopped or mashed fruit pieces

Jelly

smooth, clear, made with fruit juice and no fruit pieces

Preserves

thick, syrupy, made with whole or large chunks of fruit

Fruit

Butter

smooth, spreadable, made with pureed fruit

Refrigerator Jam

Savor the fruits of the season with a little easy DIY fun! Sugar can be adjusted based on sweetness of fruit and personal preference.

RECIPE Refrigerator Pickling

Want to enjoy a peck of pickled peppers? How about green beans, beets or even watermelon? Get pickling with this super easy process!

Amici Jars

You can’t make jams or pickles without jars! Drop by our General Merchandise Department to find stylish and functional glass Amici Jars, perfect for filling with your favorite refrigerator fruit spread or pickled produce.

Pickling Spice

No need to raid the spice cabinet with a pre-made blend! Available by the bottle from Morton & Bassett or in our Bulk Department, this traditional, salt-free blend is a perfect start to any DIY pickle project.

THE Plot Chickens

Welcome to the Side Show

18

ried chicken: what else can we say? Just mention of it makes the mouth water. Whether you stay traditional with a buttermilk marinade, egg and flour, keep it healthy with an air fryer or get lost in the sauce as you douse and dip, the simple pleasure this classic summer picnic staple conjures is undeniable no matter how it’s done. Come to us for the chicken, then put your own twist on it and give yourself something to cluck about!

F

RECIPE

Classic Fried Chicken

Let’s face it—everyone has their secrets when it comes to making the perfect fried chicken. But we don’t! We’re down to outright spell out our pro tips to help you hatch some ideas!

PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 14–18 MINUTES

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups distilled vinegar

• 2 cups water

• 2 tablespoons salt, divided

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (wings, breasts, drumsticks and thighs)

• 2 cups flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 tablespoon cayenne

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• Oil, for frying

PREPARATION

Combine vinegar, water, salt and sugar and whisk until both the salt and sugar are dissolved. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the vinegar solution over the top.

Spectrum

Culinary Oils

In another bowl, combine the remaining dry ingredients and mix. Toss each piece of chicken in the flour mixture until coated, then dip into the vinegar solution again, and then back in the flour mixture. Transfer each piece to a tray.

In a Dutch oven or large cast-iron pan, add oil to a depth of at least 2 inches, then heat to 315°F. Add the dredged chicken to the oil and fry to internal temperature of 165°F, about 14–18 minutes. Fry chicken in batches as needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Transfer to a rack to drain for 5 minutes before serving.

FRY AWAY with these specialty ingredients!

Spectrum's specialty oils are your perfect partner in cooking! Made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients and suited for for medium to high-heat cooking, they're great for stir-frying, sautéing and more.

Diamond Nut Coatings

Do you go nuts for formidable crisp and crunch? When you’re trying to keep your carb count to a minimum, coat your chicken in Diamond Nut Coatings , a breadcrumb alternative made with a blend of ground walnuts and pecans. Available in multiple flavors, it works as a great topping for a mac and cheese side, too!

Just About Foods Chickpea Crumbs

Just About Foods’ Chickpea Crumbs exist to grant your wish for healthy breading alternatives! Made from only organic chickpea crumbs and salt, these deliciously crunchy tidbits absorb less oil than other breading methods and are an easy grain-free substitute for breadcrumbs in any recipe.

Feelin’ Hawt!

If you have leftover chicken on hand (who can complain about that?), slap it between some soft buns and you’ve successfully capitalized on its versatility. But why stop there? Most of the fun lies in dressing it up! Experiment away with sauces, glazes, condiments and more—we’ve got lots to choose from! Soon, you’ll be whipping up another batch of fried chicken for the express purpose of having summer in a sandwich.

Hot Chicken Sandwich

Ramp up the flame factor, and make sure to have that lemonade handy! If you have a burning desire for something as spicy as the temperature, we’ve got your back with this amazing glaze.

Fresh to Market

Kaiser Rolls

Light, golden and perfectly toastable cut-side down with butter in a pan, our Bakery-made Kaiser Rolls are the perfect vehicle for leftover fried chicken or whatever it is you’re sandwiching.

Grillo’s

Grillo’s Italian Dill Pickle Spears or Chips are intensely craveable for a few reasons: they’re fresh, crisp, crunchy and salty. And that’s just by themselves! Added to a burger, on a sandwich or used as a side, they’ll prove to be that perfect flavor-enhancer you’re looking for. Just as well, their Pico de Grillo is fantastic slathered on the inside of a bun. (If you prefer something a little more DIY when it comes to pickles, flip to p. 13!).

PRO TIP

Marinate with Pickle Brine

While pickles on chicken sandwiches is pretty much a given, have you ever thought about marinating your chicken in pickle brine before cooking it? The juiciness factor gets even jucier, the tenderness factor gets more tender and the flavor gets a little extra zing. Give it a try—it just might “pickle” your fancy!

FROM OUR BAKERY

Walker & Sons

Slap Ya Mama

Cajun

Seasoning

Have a hankering for some savory Cajun zest? With just the right amount of spice, Walker & Sons’ Louisiana-made Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning adds such an emboldened hit of flavor you’ll want to slap it on everything.

Chick-fil-A Sauces

What came first, the chicken or the sauce? Well, the chicken— but when the sauce is as iconic as Chik-fil-A’s, it’s almost as if the chicken was made for the sauce. Flavors like Original and Polynesian have been a hit in the drive-thru—now they can be a hit at the table!

Lillie’s Q Sauces

Meet Lillie’s Q Sauces : based off of the company founder’s grandma’s recipes, Lillie’s transports the South to you, right here, right now. From the creamy, slightly sweet Ivory Barbeque Sauce to the savory, tangy Chicken Tender Sauce and the mustardy, spicy Honey Gold Tender Sauce, your chicken will be brought to its full potential with this burst of flavor in a bottle. Dip it, slather it or pour it on thick!

Air Fryer Chicken

Want a healthier alternative to oil-based frying? Check out this recipe for air-fried chicken that’s a breeze to make (and to eat)!

FROM OUR KITCHEN All the Fixin’s: Salads & Sides

If you’ve been taking it easy all summer or have a gathering you’ve got to scurry to in a hurry, fret not! We’ve got you covered. From our Kitchen-made Mac Salad to our Sonoran Corn Salad, it’s our pleasure to fix you up with that homemade quality. Visit the Kitchen at your local Nugget Markets to discover all the deliciousness we offer: the possibilities are endless!

Beautiful Biscuits

Chicken and biscuits: that classic combo is classic for a reason. If you’re making your own chicken, you might as well make your own buttery, flaky biscuits, too.

Glorious Greens

With such a hearty meal, you’ve gotta get those greens in! Fortunately, they’re easy to make.

RECIPE RECIPE

Nature Nate’s Hot Honey

For a sweet, spicy complement to your chicken, sauce or glaze, try Nature Nate’s 100% pure honey infused with chili pepper. Guaranteed pure, this honey adheres to rigid testing standards to ensure it’s as simple and fresh when it gets to you as it was in the hive. You’ve got sweet and heat in one bottle—don’t be afraid to use its power for even more good, like pairing it with biscuits, artisan cheese or even cocktails!

Although the main event is the main event for a reason, the supporting act serves to enhance and further entice. It’s no different with food! Whether you’re someone who likes to load it all up on one fork or organize your plate in perfect order by quadrant, you can’t deny the importance of good sides. With this all-star line-up, you’ll be fixin’ for more fixin’s!

Air-Fried Kettle Chips

It’s hard to keep your hands off of the chip bowl while the rest of the meal is in prep—but at least with Kettle’s Air-Fried Chips , you can rest easy knowing there’s 30% less fat (that means 30% more snacking, right?) than the original variation. Batch-cooked in kettles then air-fried for that light, crispy crunch, all their flavors are a hit —try zesty Jalapeño, tongue-puckering Sea Salt & Vinegar or tried-and-true Himalayan Salt.

Summer Sweets!

Too hot to turn the oven on, but still looking to spend those idyllic, slow summer days indulging in sweet, comforting baked bliss? Drop by our Bakery! From brownies to bars and more, you’re bound to find something you’ll love within our selection of seasonal favorites. Call your local Nugget Markets to see what’s available or order ahead!

Brownies & Bars

Whether you’re in the mood for something citrusy, chocolatey, fruity or cheesecake-y, we do it all!

Homemade with Love

• Magic Bar (Family Size) : Our scratch-made brownie covered with Callebaut chocolate chips, walnuts, sweetened coconut and condensed milk for a magical treat.

• Fudge Brownie (Family Size) : A delectable, scratch-made brownie topped with rich fudge.

• Lemon Bar: An all-butter shortbread topped with baked lemon curd and dusted with snow sugar.

• Lime Bar: A tangy and sweet lime cream cheese with a delicious graham cracker crust.

• Raspberry Cheesecake Bar: Chocolate cookie crust topped with decadent, sweet cheesecake and swirled with tart raspberry preserves.

• Pineapple Macaroon Bar: A coconut macaroon cookie with a layer of pineapple filling on a shortbread crust and a white chocolate drizzle on top.

• Raspberry Macaroon Bar: That same tasty coconut macaroon, shortbread and chocolate combo, but with a tangy raspberry filling instead!

FROM OUR BAKERY

brookies

What’s a “brookie,” you ask? A playful portmanteau. But beyond the semantics of the word, the real thing is one of the most delicious and powerful combinations known to man: the cross between a dense, fudgy brownie and a soft, golden chocolate chip cookie. Rest easy knowing you never have to choose between the two again.

brownies

Imagine, if you will, the qualities of the most ideal brownie ever. It’s dense, yet soft and yielding to the tooth; chewy, gooey and fudgy, yet cakey. Well, you’ve just described a Killer Brownie . Born in 1988 in the bakery of a family market like ours, The Killer Brownie Company eventually expanded, making their to-die-for confections conveniently available nationwide. Their decadent brownies and brookies delight in flavors like Original , Triple Chocolate, Caramel Cookie Dough and Kitchen Sink—and pro tip: a little goes a long way. They’re that killer!

When you’re looking for the very best meats to throw on the barbecue, it’s time to visit your local Nugget Markets Butcher. With an average of over 90 years of combined experience at each of our 16 locations, we're proud to boast an amazing team of experts behind the meat counter!

From helping you pick out the perfect cut to custom-tying a roast, filling you in on the latest trends to serving you with old world charm, knife sharpening to cooking instructions and so much more, our pros really are a cut above.

Signature Seasonings

Tequila & Lime: If you're craving some zing balanced by a nice depth of flavor, opt for this south-of-the-border-inspired blend! Imbued with herbs, spices, garlic, onion, natural tequila, lime and lemon, it'll add a unique spin to whatever you're making with it.

Flip through this section for some pro tips from our team including recommended cuts, go-to ingredients, tools of the trade and timeless techniques that will take your summertime grilling over the top—then stop by our Meat Department to get started!

Say goodbye to nitrates, nitrites, phosphates and MSG—our all-natural seasonings don’t need them! As well as flavoring our homemade sausages, these sensational spice blends can also be added to your pick of protein—just ask one of our talented Butchers!

Burgundy Pepper: This guest favorite is made with Burgundy wine, sea salt, onions, garlic and spices to create a beautiful blend of flavors great for a variety of proteins.

Hot Italian: For fresh Italian flavor, try this classic blend featuring whole fennel seed, fresh oregano and ground black pepper.

…And many more!

Ready, Set, Grill!

Along with great steaks, ribs and seafood, our Meat Department also offers a selection of hearty, ready-to-cook entrées and appetizers handcrafted on-site by our masterful meat team.

Low effort and high flavor, these prepared proteins are perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks who want to skip all the prep work and get straight to the grill.

Kabobs

What’s better than food on a stick?

Made fresh in our Meat Department with high-quality meats, seafood and produce, these tasty skewers are great for grilling and fun to eat.

Jalapeño Poppers

Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these poppers feature jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon for just the right balance of spicy, savory and decadent.

Stuffed Flank Steak

Your taste buds will be on a roll with this amazing entrée filled with fresh spinach, bacon and Parmesan cheese. The flavors and textures are unreal, and it only takes 30 minutes to cook!

Sun’s Out Buns Out

For a classic backyard barbecue that’s fun, easy and budget-friendly, you can’t go wrong with good, old-fashioned burgers and dogs! Up the ante on these family favorites with simple, high-quality ingredients, tantalizing toppings and a little creative flair.

Certified Piedmontese Steakhouse Patties

Enjoy restaurant flavor at home with these pre-formed patties made with premium, humanely raised ground beef. They’re tender, lean, juicy and ready to throw right on the grill!

Miller’s Beef Franks

Providing quality smoked meats since 1910, this California company makes top dogs indeed with real Angus beef and no artificial flavors, colors or MSG. Hot DOG!

Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf for the Grill

Think outside the bun with a Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf! Make it yourself with our signature recipe or start with our Meat Department’s Meatloaf Mix to save time and effort.

Tillamook Cheese

Top your patty with a slice of Tillamook Cheddar, Swiss or Pepper Jack Cheese while it’s still on the grill for a mega melty, mouthwatering experience.

Terrapin Ridge Farms Aioli

The right sauce can make any burger or dog even better. Try Terrapin Ridge Farms' bold, bright and garlicky Pesto Aioli , smoky Bacon Aioli or Spicy Chipotle Squeeze for the perfect zing.

Boar's Head Sauerkraut & Mustard

Along with premium deli meats and cheeses, Boar’s Head also makes tasty toppings like traditional Yellow Mustard and Sauerkraut made with a time-tested German recipe.

Gotham Greens Butterhead Lettuce

Grown locally and sustainably in hydroponic greenhouses, Gotham Greens Butterhead Lettuce is the softest and sweetest of all the salad greens. It’s perfect for topping your burger, or wrapping it for a low-carb, no-bun burger option.

Nordicware Stuffed Burger Maker & Patty Press

Made in the USA by a family-owned company, these reversible molds will help you make square or round patties, along with stuffed burgers for extra juicy, flavor-packed creations.

Three Steps to Smokin’ Chicken

Spatchcock

This simple technique of splitting and flattening a whole chicken ensures quick and even cooking. To spatchcock a chicken, simply turn it breast-side down and use kitchen shears to cut along either side of the backbone, starting near the thighs. Remove the backbone, then flip chicken over, split it open and press firmly to flatten it (the breastbone will crack in the process).

2

Don't want to DIY?

Ask one of our Butchers to do it for you!

Brine

Brining chicken and other proteins is a fantastic way to help the meat retain its moisture and impart extra flavor. Get creative and make your own with these easy tips.

3

1 Smoke

RECIPE

Pro Tip: Trim excess chicken fat before cooking to avoid flare-ups.

For the finishing touch, smoke your chicken on the barbecue or in a smoker, to infuse it with rich, complex flavor. For your barbecue, start cooking over direct heat with the lid on to brown the meat, then flip the chicken over and cover to brown the other side. Once the chicken has a good color to it, move it to indirect heat and replace the lid to finish cooking. NOTE: The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F.

Wildwood Grilling Smoking Chips

Expand your grilling horizons with the bold, smoky and sweet nuances of different smoking chips. We offer four unique flavors of these all-natural, additive-free smoking chips from the USA, so try each one with different proteins to find your favorite combos!

For using a smoker, try our recipe for Brined & Smoked Spatchcocked Chicken with Lillie's Q Ivory Barbeque Sauce!

RECIPE

Fresh to Market Smart Chicken

Our Fresh to Market Pure Air-Chilled Chicken is the smart choice—literally! We’ve partnered up with Smart Chicken to make sure our house brand of chicken is the best there is. Our Pure-Air Chilled Smart Chicken is humanely raised cagefree and vegetarian-fed with no added hormones or antibiotics ever. Free of added water and hand-trimmed for premium quality you can see and taste!

Lillie's Q Ivory Barbeque Sauce

If you’re a fan of Alabama white sauce, you’ll love the Lillie’s Q rendition. This mayo-based sauce is practically made for smoked chicken, but it’s versatile enough to bring a tangy twist to everything from green salads to French fries and just about anything else you can think of.

Sensational Seafood

No Cooking Required

If you need something to snack on WHILE you’re grilling, drop by our Meat Department for ready-to-eat seafood like fresh Poke, Ceviche and our amazing Smoked Salmon Spread. Pair with fresh bread from our Bakery or house-made chips from our Kitchen for the perfect summer appetizers!

FIELD GUIDE • SUMMER 2023

Fish on Fire

As for what’s ON the grill, we offer an amazing selection of seafood to choose from. Along with salmon (always a winner), try throwing these fantastic fish on the grill.

Try our Grilled Kanpachi with Summer Corn Salad Recipe!

Kanpachi

If you’re looking for a great grilling fish you might not have tried before, we recommend Forever Oceans Kanpachi! This sustainable, mild and incredibly versatile fish has a higher fat content that lends itself to great grill marks and makes it very forgiving and hard to overcook. Hungry yet? Find this fish exclusively in fine restaurants and at your local Nugget Markets!

Halibut

With a mild flavor and flaky texture, halibut is a popular lean protein, even for those who don’t usually like fish. It’s simple to prepare in foil pouches, in a pan or on the grill with these pro tips:

• Start with a nice, thick cut of halibut and a hot, clean and oiled grill.

• Brush or spray the halibut with avocado oil or another high-smoke point cooking oil.

• Season the fish as desired, then place on the grill at a 45-degree angle.

• After 2–3 minutes, rotate the fish 90 degrees to create a diamond pattern. If it’s sticking a bit, stick with a single set of grill marks instead of the diamond pattern.

• After about 2 more minutes, flip the fish with a spatula, using tongs to support the sides.

• After a few more minutes, your halibut should be ready to rest or serve. Internal temperature should reach 145 degrees at the thickest part of the filet.

NOTE: Use the spatula and tongs combo again when transferring to a plate to prevent the fish from slipping off the spatula and becoming the one that got away.

Raise the Steaks

Good steak doesn’t need much to shine, but the right spices and sauces can really take it over the top. Depending what flavor profile you’re after, what cut you start with and what cooking method you prefer, the combinations are endless, but here are a few of our favorite flavor infusers to get you started.

RECIPE Try our Grilled Picanha with Chimichurri Recipe!

First Light Farms Wagyu

Known for exceptional tenderness, flavor and marbling, this premium grass-fed beef is sustainably and humanely raised on the lush, nutrient-dense grasses of New Zealand by a Certified B Corporation dedicated to regenerative farming. Try their Picanha steak with Gotham Greens Chimihurri!

Gotham Greens Chimichurri

Add a bright, herbaceous note to your meal with this sensational, sustainable sauce made with fresh basil, parsley and jalapeños. It doubles as a marinade so you can give your protein a spicy kick from the start.

Marinades & Rubs

Morton & Bassett Spices

This San Francisco company has been known for sourcing exceptional spices for more than 30 years! While salt and pepper are well and good, try expanding your spice horizons with more esoteric seasonings like their Aleppo Pepper, Za’atar, African Berbere and Ras El Hanout

Rub with Love Rubs & Marinades

These small-batch spice rubs and marinades are perfect for adding complex flavors to all sorts of foods. Try their Smoky Barbecue Rub and other versatile blends on any and all proteins or grab a bottle of their Triple Garlic Teriyaki Sauce for classic, reliable garlicky goodness.

Earth & Vine Provisions Cooking Sauces

With a passion for delicious, clean and healthy foods, this Loomis-based company has been making small-batch sauces, jams and marinades since 1997. Enjoy great flavors from Lemon Rosemary to Tangerine Chili Ponzu as marinades, grilling sauces or dipping sauces!

Know Your Ribs

Baby Back Ribs: pork ribs from near the back bone; curved, shorter ribs that take less time to cook; lean and tender.

Try our Fresh to Market 100% Berkshire

Kurobuta Baby Back Ribs!

St. Louis Ribs: pork ribs from near the belly; flatter, straighter, good for even cooking; meaty, fatty and flavorful

Try our Fresh to Market 100% Berkshire

Kurobuta St. Louis Ribs!

Country-Style Ribs: pork but not technically ribs; from where shoulder blade meats loin; most meat per pound

Beef Back Ribs: beef ribs from near the back bone; same ribs found in bone-in ribeye steaks or prime rib roasts

All of the Above: Cook low and slow for best results!

Fresh to Market BBQ Sauce

Did you know we make our own BBQ Sauce at Nugget Markets? Even better, you can get it by the bottle to slather on ribs, chicken, pizza, sandwiches and more. Find it and other delicious chef-made sauces and dressings on our deli wall!

Bring on the Brisket

Lillie's Q Brisket Pepper

Brought to you by a company dedicated to recreating the authentic, regional flavors of Southern BBQ, this Brisket Pepper is ideal for big, bold Texas-style flavor. It’s made with a special pepper from India and is just the right grind size for seasoning your brisket, steak or other chosen cut.

First Light Farms

100% Grass-Fed Wagyu Beef Tallow

Remember that wonderful Wagyu steak from the last spread? First Light Farms also makes a Wagyu Beef Tallow from the rendered trim fat as part of their dedication to using the whole animal. You can use this versatile fat to add extra moisture to brisket or as an allpurpose cooking oil in the kitchen!

Paper Chef Pink Butcher Paper

When it comes to beautiful brisket, think pink with this vibrant butcher paper. Its porous texture lets in more smoke (and therefore flavor) than foil while allowing excess steam to escape, keeping the meat from becoming mushy and maintaining the bark. It also helps whatever you wrap in it cook faster so you can enjoy eating it that much sooner.

SWEET DREAMS ARE

MADE OF

Cheese

Here at Nugget Markets, we’re all about artisan quality! We love being able to purvey the products of exceptionally attentive makers whose passion for traditional methods and pride in their craft show through in their distinctive, high-quality creations. That’s why our Specialty Cheese Department is proud to participate in the American Artisan Cheese program which highlights and promotes boutique family-owned producers who—at the risk of being a little cheesy—are as gouda as gold. Read on to learn more—it’ll give you something to dream about!

Nettle Meadow

At Nettle Meadow Farm, the critters are just as doted on as the cheese! Part animal sanctuary, part cheese company, the farm is home to more than 130 well-cared-for rescue animals and over 1,000 carefree, free-grazing production animals, with the sanctuary also acting as a retirement home for those animals who are past their production years. As if that weren’t enough, they’re also responsible for making more than 500,000 pounds of carefully handcrafted cheese per year!

With happy cows, goats, sheep, bunnies, peacocks and more, this idyllic upstate-New York sanctuary/farm/cheesemaker wonderland and their commitment to natural, organic principles sounds too good to be true—and that’s before you even taste their award-winning cheeses. In short, they prove the cliché correct: love really is the most important ingredient in anything!

Learn more about Nettle Meadow’s animal sanctuary and how you can help their cause.

Fig & Honey Fromage Frais

Cheese, honey and fig? It’s a combination as timeless as infinity. This fresh, versatile mixed-milk spread is sweet, classic and approachable.

Honey Lavender Fromage Blanc

For those who enjoy the sweeter side of life, lovely lavender lends itself well to heavenly honey in this goat’s milk fromage blanc. Have it with raspberries for a fresh summertime dessert!

Briar Summit

This handcrafted and enticing mixed-milk pyramid makes a point to stand out—albeit, in a delicate, graceful way. It’s infused with raspberry leaf tea for a waft of herby floral notes and is great with sparkling wine.

FireFly Farms

With a focus on supporting local farmers, long-term sustainability and—most of all—animal happiness, FireFly has been in cheesemaking in Western Maryland since 2002. It’s so hard to choose just one of their delicious offerings —so why not try them all?

Bloomy Breeze: A beautiful blend of Jersey and Holstein milk that makes for a luscious and rich soft-ripened cheese. It’s aged for three weeks, then wrapped up to finishing the aging, resulting in a delicate and flavorful edible rind.

Merry Goat Round: One of their flagship specimens, this creamy cheese is mild and lactic when young, later maturing to achieve an earthy, mushroom-y flavor. It sings alongside apricot jam.

Baetje Farms

Coeur de la Creme Herbs de Provence: This heartshaped delight hails from Baetje Farms, a family dairy nestled among the fertile hills of Southeast Missouri that started as a passion project farmstead with just one goat, eventually growing into something much bigger. This award-winning nugget of goodness is imbued with organic herbs de Provence, making it the perfect complement to pork, chicken and lamb, as well as eggs, mushroom caps and more.

Boxcarr Handmade Cheese

Rocket’s Robiola: This dynamic, ash-ripened beauty is handmade in the heart of North Carolina on a first-generation family farm founded by a brother-sister duo. As it ages, this aromatic, doughy cheese’s firm chalkiness gives way to luxurious ooziness. It tastes full and earthy with a healthy minerality, and is great on ravioli, with bread or as a pre-dinner snack.

Tulip Tree Creamery

Snapdragon: This Indiana-based creamery presents a triple cream cheese inspired by the European classics with a snappy twist in the form of a spicy surprise: within the plumpish, buttery triple crème hides a ribbon of habanero peppers that brightly shine against the rich, milky creaminess. If you love a creamy-spicy combo with added fruity notes, try brûlée-ing it with sugar for even more sweet contrastive bliss. Oh, SNAP!

Barr Hill

What’s the buzz about Barr Hill ? Well, the distillery’s story began just over 20 years ago, when a beekeeper and a distiller joined forces in Northeast Vermont to create an award-winning ambrosial concoction: gin infused with local raw honey, forged from a connection to the land and the bees that buzz there. The result is a gin with depth, complexity and just a hint of honey sweetness—but the effort Barr Hill makes in protecting bees and raising awareness about their importance makes it all the sweeter.

Try their un-bee-lievable gin in The Bee’s Knees, their signature martini!

Frey Ranch Distillery

A relative newcomer to the bourbon scene, this family-ownedand-operated small business located just east of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Fallon, Nevada, has been around for a short 165 years (that’s five generations if anyone’s counting). They’re there every step of the way when it comes to their fine product: they sustainably grow all the grains used to make the whiskey, then malt, distill and age it on-site. That’s right—the finished product never leaves the farm until it’s sold! When it does depart and gets into your hands, it makes a great sipping bourbon, or is fabulous in an Old Fashioned or a Blackberry Smash cocktail.

Try their farm-to-table straight bourbon whiskey in their seasonal summer cocktail, the Blackberry Smash!

If fall is for pumpkin lattes, winter is for hot chocolate and spring is for fancy tea (you read our last issue, right?), then summer is all about long, languid evenings on the back patio with some pals and a craft drink in hand! Crank up the sunny (so to speak) good vibes with these small producers and their unique libations. Cheers!

RECIPE

Honig Winery

Specializing in just two varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, Honig Winery is one of the few remaining family-owned-and-operated small wineries left in Napa Valley. Besides a commitment to great wines, they’re also focused on preserving and improving the environment and minimizing their impact on the planet, helping to pioneer the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices. As such, the winery is solar powered and the vineyards are home to a hive of 60,000 bees. Additionally, a flock of sheep are employed as little lawnmowers, naturally fertilizing the vineyards at the same time so no man-made fertilizers are needed. Even further, bird and owl boxes can be found over the vineyards to control the insect and rodent population, eliminating the need for chemicals or traps. But, back to the wine! The Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with whole roasted chicken or fresh shellfish, and the Cabernet is great with rich red meats. Give them a try!

Shannon Winery

With multiple award-winning wines, this family-owned-and-operated producer focuses on climate change and environmental issues just as much as making amazing wines. Situated in Clear Lake, their 1000-acre Shannon Ridge Mountain Estate is 100% Certified Organic thanks to their commitment to a fully regenerative organic farming system. Their farming efforts have earned them the 2021 California Green Medal Environment Award for their closed loop agriculture approach, which includes water conservation, biodiversity, pest management and wildlife preservation as just a few aspects.

Original Pattern Brewing Company

Focused on quality and freshness, this employee-owned brewery and tasting room based in Oakland has boasted an impressive array of craft offerings since its inception in 2018. With more than 135 unique releases in 2022 alone, Original Pattern has a diverse portfolio of brew styles— from the ever-popular IPAs and lagers to the unique Kolsch, fruited sours and so much more. With a constant rotation of brew styles, there’s always something fun and new to try—and since the selection of brews changes constantly, you won’t find the same thing available all the time (or even at every store). Across their vast catalog of craft creations, their quality is consistently exceptional. Don’t just take our word for it: Original Pattern claimed awards from the Great American Beer Festival and the California Craft Brewer’s Cup for the last five consecutive years!

Hot days call for cold treats, and sometimes you just can’t beat good, old-fashioned ice cream. From over-the-top sundaes and kid-friendly creations to adults-only desserts infused with something a little stronger, get the scoop, because it’s about to get out of cone-trol!

DIY Ice Cream Base

Making your own ice cream is simpler than you think! Get started with this basic recipe, then mix it up with fun and flavorful mix-ins like strawberry jam and pound cake, toffee and pecans, our Bakery’s famous Brownie Bites or whatever your heart desires.

We All Scream for What Now?

Ice Cream

Typically made from milk, cream, sugar and some kind of flavoring, classic ice cream is heavily churned to add air and create a whipped, creamy texture.

Gelato

Try… Straus Organic Super Premium Ice Cream, crafted locally with milk and cream from family farms in Marin and Sonoma counties.

Frozen Custard

Decadent and rich, frozen custard is made like ice cream but with the addition of egg yolks to create an extra dense, silken and creamy mouthfeel.

Also made with milk, cream, sugar and flavoring, gelato is denser than ice cream with less added air, a higher ratio of milk to cream, more sugar and less fat.

Sorbet

Try… Fiorello’s Artisan Gelato, handmade locally in Marin since 1982 with no added air for extra decadence.

This dairy-free frozen dessert is made from sweetened water and flavoring. Some common ingredients include fruit juice, fruit puree, wine or liqueur.

Try… Double Rainbow Frozen Custard, made with all-natural ingredients by a family-run company in San Francisco.

Try… The Latest Scoop Sorbet, available in unique and award-winning flavors handcrafted locally in Berkeley since 1979.

Tovolo Ice Cream Scoops & Tubs

Whether you’re making your own or digging into a pint from our Frozen Department, Tovolo is here to help make all your ice cream dreams come true. Their ergonomic, chrome-plated ice cream scoops retain heat for easy serving, and their insulated tubs come in various sizes with silicone lids and large, slender versions designed to fit your freezer.

Muddy Bites Waffle Cone Snacks

If the bottom of the waffle cone is your favorite part, make room in your pantry for Muddy Bites! These delicious, bite-sized waffle cone snacks are light, crispy and filled with creamy milk or dark chocolate for a taste of sweet nostalgia. Both GMO-free and Kosher certified, these sweet treats are great by the handful for anytime snacking or for throwing on a sundae!

Shake It Up

Sundaes and sandwiches aren’t the only way to enjoy ice cream! To make your own milkshake, simply add ice cream and milk to a blender, blend on low until smooth and then add your favorite toppings as desired. To make it a malt, just add some malted milk powder! Look for it on the coffee and tea aisle.

Topnotch Toppings

Fran’s Organic Dessert Sauces

No sundae is complete without a sweet sauce or two. For some bright and fruity flair, try Fran’s organic, vegan and seedless Raspberry Sauce. And when you just can’t get enough chocolate, drizzle on Fran’s award-winning Dark Chocolate Sauce —silky, decadent, Fair Trade and organic!

Fresh to Market Sea Salt Caramel Sauce

Smooth, sweet and indulgent, our caramel sauce comes from a family-owned company right here in California. It’s made in small batches with a 100-year-old French recipe and traditional copper kettles for the ultimate caramel indulgence.

San Ignacio Dulce de Leche

If you’re looking for an authentic dulce de leche experience, San Ignacio has you covered. Their decadent milk caramel spread comes straight from Argentina, where they've been perfecting its rich caramelized flavor and silky texture for more than 70 years.

Chef’n Ice Cream Accessories

For a fun family activity, make your own ice cream, sundaes and sandwiches with the Chef’n Sweet Spot collection! Their super simple Ice Cream Maker will help you whip up your favorite frozen dessert in minutes, which you can then turn into handheld treats with their Ice Cream Sandwich Makers! If a banana split is more your speed, use their kid-safe Bananza Banana Slicer for fast, uniform slices every time.

Bulk Nuts & More

Finish things off with a salty, nutty crunch with a variety of tasty treats from our Bulk Department! Chopped almonds, walnuts, peanuts and pistachio kernels are always a winner, or grab a tub of our new plantain nuggets for a crispy, salty twist.

Just Add Coffee

Equator Cold Brew Coffee

Everything’s better with coffee, including ice cream! Equator’s new ready-to-drink Cold Brew Coffees are perfect for an anytime affogato, or for drinking straight from the bottle. Each ultra-smooth flavor is cold-brewed for 18 hours with organic, Fair Trade coffee roasted and bottled right here in California.

Try their Pure Black Cold Brew for something smooth and bold, the Velvet Mocha Cold Brew for a decadent cocoa infusion, the Hint of Vanilla Cold Brew for a light and creamy indulgence or the Hint of Milk & Sugar Cold Brew for a lovely, latte-like experience.

Amazing Affogatos

At its simplest, an affogato is a scoop of vanilla gelato with hot espresso poured over the top, but put your own twist on it with different flavors and kinds of frozen dessert, opting for cold brew or coffee, and (for the adults out there) even a bit of booze.

New Items IN OUR STORES

Thunderbird Superfood Bars

Plant-based, paleo and perfect for a midday pick-me-up, these standout superfood bars are made with simple, non-GMO ingredients and no added sugar. Fuel up with unique and incredible flavors like Hazelnut Coffee Maca, Chocolate Almond Butter Sea Salt, Pecan Goji Pistachio and more.

Late July Organic Sea Salt & Lime Restaurant-Style Tortilla Chips

We’ve long been fans of Late July’s savory snack selection, and now there’s even more to love—literally! Grab their Party Size pack so you don't run out when the craving strikes. Crafted with quality ingredients like organic whole ground corn and real lime, these citrusy chips will be the life of the party!

JonnyPops Organic Freezer Pops

JonnyPops is dedicated to making the world a better place one pop at a time through kindness, wholesome ingredients and fantastic frozen desserts. Their iconic Freezer Pops come in a variety pack of three fruity flavors that are all vegan, kosher, free from the top eight food allergens and ready to pop in the freezer!

MUD\WTR Alternative Coffee

This organic coffee alternative is designed to help support focus and energy with just a fraction of the caffeine found in coffee. Their blends feature power-packed ingredients like lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, turmeric, cinnamon and cacao for the perfect balance of function and flavor.

Mariani Dried Fruit Chips

These crispy, crunchy fruit chips have only one ingredient—can you guess what it is? Yes, it’s the fruit! This convenient dried snack is bursting with flavor and is a light, healthy option you can feel good about. Try Mango or Pineapple —you know it’ll be fruit-tastic!