Editor’s Picks
by Nicole Vander Muelen
The middle of winter can feel gray and glum. To stay in bed or to get out of town? That is the question – and the answer is yes. Luckily, what we put on our plate has the power to warm, like the coziest blanket or a drop of tropical sun. Here, some food and drinks that are spirit lifting, soul warming, and dare I say, mood boosting.
Dumplings LAO BAN
Scrumdiddlyumptious! The cutest way to say delicious, and that’s what these dumplings are. Ready to eat (just fry, boil, or steam) and made from all-natural ingredients. We carry Ginger Chicken, Livin’ on the Vedge, and Pork & Chive. I fancy the pork, plopped in a ramen-like broth.
Alebrijes Mexican Lager EL SUEÑITO BREWING
Not only is “alebrijes” one of my favorite words (ah-leh-bree-hess), this beer just might be my spirit animal! A light, crisp lager best enjoyed with a lime, this flagship cerveza is not to be missed— from Washington’s first gay- and Mexican-owned brewery. Do make your way to their Bellingham taproom to pair with tasty tamales.
Thanksgiving Letter to the Editor Dear Skagit Valley Food Co-op,
This is a time for “Giving Thanks,” and I wanted to send a sincere THANKS to all employees and volunteers, past and present, who have created the stellar community icon that is the Co-op. Thank you also for the Golden Jubilee celebration! It brought tears to my eyes and rekindled memories of my initial cooperative involvement in 1973: Tempe, Arizona. “Gentle Strength Food Co-op.” …Church basement on Saturdays. Unpacking and shopping fragrant bulk foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, and local dairy goods, and honey! Heading home afterwards to make a massive fruit salad folded into fresh whipped cream. Joy of working together, side-byside, with other co-op volunteers. And the feeling of Making A Difference! Much gratitude also for the “Jubilee’s” moving speeches, great music, fantastic food, and joyful children’s activities. What a success! My last thank you is for the wonderful Natural Enquirer which seems to get BETTER with each issue! The writers and other contributors convey heartfelt emotion, passion, and LOVE. I am over the top with Thanks-giving to you all!
Most sincerely, Proud Member, Ruth L
Cannellini Beans
FIELD DAY, JOVIAL AVAILABLE DRY IN BULK
Who knew I could love a bean so much? Cannellinis are mild, creamy, and protein-packed. I’ve been using them in soups, on toast, and my new lunchtime go-to: Tuscan Baked Beans— a fantastic way to satisfy a spaghetti craving without the noodles. Find the recipe on Page 10.
Yogoman Burning Band performing at the Jubilee
Hot Hand Pies + Pot Pies THE CO-OP’S OWN
The most comforting food of all! Hearty fillings tucked into warm flaky crusts, now available hot in the Deli. Warm your bones with Irish Beef Potato or Beef Chickpea Kale hand pies, or any of our pot pies – veggie, turkey, chicken, and beef.
Galen, Lisa, Anthony, and Brittany after serving at the Jubilee
Here’s to another year of healthy, hearty, amazing food! Start your day with an organic fruit smoothie or a shot of sunshine, dig in to our famous Dublin coddle, or grab a fresh salad to-go! Team ice cream or Team Irish cream? We scream WIN-WIN! Like a hot chicken dinner. Here’s some of the amazing food you can look forward to in the coming months at your Co-op:
January
February
• Hot Roasted Chickens •
• Co-op Made Pizzas •
• Irish Black Bottom Cupcakes •
• Fresh To-Go Salads •
• Raspberry Chocolate Heart Cakes •
• Dublin Coddle •
• Wellness Shots •
• Sweet Tart Smoothie •
• Irish Cream Mocha •
• Fennel & Fig Ice Cream •
• Pistachio Ice Cream •
• Chocolate Orange Seville Ice Cream •
14
March
SKAGIT VALLEY FOOD CO-OP • THE NATURAL ENQUIRER • JANUARY – MARCH 2024
