The first green buds are budding, the crocuses have pushed their way through the soil, my eyes are itchy and the air is fresh. Yes, I would say it is spring.
As we welcome back the light and the rebirth of the season, one can鈥檛 help but notice that many faiths and religions celebrate this time of year. And what is one of the biggest symbols of spring, new life and resurrection? The egg, of course!
Back in ancient times, the聽egg聽was a聽symbol聽of the universe, of creation, and in some cultures, luck, wealth and health. In Jewish tradition, it symbolizes promise. In Christian tradition, it is a metaphor for resurrection, immortality and the trinity.
Eggs are wonderfully good for you, jam-packed with nutrition and believed to be great for the eyes. They contain choline (which many of us don鈥檛 get enough of), are high in quality protein and may even help you lose weight, according to some sources.
Tracey Robertson from Stony Mountain Farm near Squamish produces free-range eggs that are full of flavour, and you know just by meeting her that she takes great care of those birds. If you dine at beloved Fergie鈥檚 just up the Squamish Valley Road, you eat her eggs for brunch. You can also find her at the Squamish Farmers鈥� Market on Saturdays to bring us those fine little gems. Best to get there early as she does run out.
In case you aren鈥檛 a frequent market-goer, I implore you to make it part of your weekly agenda. This winter season has seen some low attendance, and it would be really nice to have people out putting their money where their mouth is聽鈥� literally. Many purveyors come from far and wide to bring you the best possible baking, veggies, crafts, meat, booze, soap and other items. It is important that when we give lip service to buying local, minimizing our footprint and securing our food system that we take every opportunity to do so. Bring the whole family down and make a late morning out of it.
Having participated in many markets across the province, I must tell you that the Squamish Farmers鈥� Market is very special. Amazing people bake, grow and make beautiful things.
The last winter market at Squamish Elementary School will be held March 26, and the summer season kicks off at the outdoor location at the corner Cleveland Avenue and Victoria Street on April 2.
Enjoying eggs
Whether you are celebrating the spring equinox, Easter or another holiday, deviled eggs are a classic appetizer and, done right, create a wow reaction at any gathering.
Easter morning breakfast is made even more glorious with an oozy egg dish.
Try them over tostadas in a Mexican chilaquiles dish, an eggs Benedict with brioche instead of English muffin or in homemade breakfast sandwiches.
May the egg of life crack open to you this spring, and may your next turn around the sun be an eggcellent one!
