Peach and Berry Cobbler
As August unfolds, the local farms around Cabot, Arkansas, are brimming with fresh produce. This time of year offers a bounty of fruits and vegetables, perfect for creating delicious, farm-to-table dishes. One such delight is a Peach and Berry Cobbler, which makes the most of the seasonal fruits available from nearby farms. This recipe not only highlights the natural sweetness of Arkansas peaches and berries but also supports local farmers and businesses.
Ingredients
For this Peach and Berry Cobbler, you’ll need:
- Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches from Barnhill Orchards or The Cabot Patch are ideal. Peaches are currently in season and at their sweetest.
- Berries: A mix of blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries from Barnhill Orchards and The Cabot Patch will add a burst of flavor and color to the cobbler.
- Lemon juice: A dash of freshly squeezed lemon juice from local produce stands to enhance the fruit’s natural flavors.
- Sugar: Adjust according to the sweetness of your fruit.
- All-purpose flour: Available at local grocery stores or farmer’s markets.
- Baking powder: Essential for a fluffy cobbler topping.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Butter: Use high-quality butter from local dairies or markets.
- Milk: Fresh milk from local farms to create a rich, creamy topping.
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Fruit: Peel and slice the peaches. Combine them with the berries in a large bowl. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice, and toss the fruits with half a cup of sugar and a quarter cup of flour. This mixture will help thicken the fruit juices as they bake.
- Make the Batter: In another bowl, mix one cup of flour, one cup of sugar, one tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Melt half a cup of butter and stir it into the dry ingredients along with one cup of milk until smooth.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the fruit mixture into a buttered baking dish. Pour the batter evenly over the fruit.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
- Serve: Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream from a local creamery.
Local Sourcing
- Barnhill Orchards: Known for their fresh peaches and a variety of berries, Barnhill Orchards is a staple in the Cabot community. They offer a wide range of produce that you can find at their farm or at the Cabot Farmers Market.
- The Cabot Patch: Another excellent source for peaches and berries, The Cabot Patch provides high-quality fruits and vegetables, ensuring you get the best flavors for your recipes. They offer strawberries, peaches, and more, making them a perfect choice for your cobbler ingredients.
Conclusion
Creating a Peach and Berry Cobbler using locally sourced ingredients not only ensures a fresh and flavorful dessert but also supports the local farmers and businesses in Cabot. This recipe is a testament to the rich agricultural heritage of the region and a delicious way to celebrate the summer’s bounty. Head to your local farms and markets to gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Cabot’s finest.