We at rooted live smack-dab in the middle of apple country. When we say miles of orchard, it’s no boast. There are quite literally fruit trees in any direction from where ever you happen to find yourself here in the Yakima Valley. Depending on market trends and growing techniques, orchards are planted and replanted all … Continued
During the cold dormant months, our Yakima Valley chefs crave fresh locally grown produce. Thanks to J&M Mushrooms, their umami needs are met. The Polar White Oyster mushrooms we watched Michael Bennett harvest out in Selah last week, seems to be a popular item on menus right now. We asked a few of our culinary friends what they … Continued
On a frozen morning in Selah, Aileen and I drive up a short hill off Selah Loop Road. Getting out of the car, we are greeted by a dog named Hope. It’s a sign. We’re hoping to see some mushrooms growing this morning here at J&M Gourmet Mushrooms. We spot Michael Bennett and he motions … Continued
It felt sci-fi. On a winter day where the white surrendered to the cold gloom and all that was left was the gray, it was no wonder. The inside of a greenhouse in the dead of winter can feel no other way. Climate-controlled 70+ degrees, moist air, and vibrant growth all around—we could have been … Continued
The meat counter went on for miles. That was my first impression. Well, maybe the second, there was some lovely colorful produce that hit me up as I first walked through the door of Carniceria Union Gap, which was pretty great as well. But that meat case—it was something to make any decent omnivore a … Continued
It wasn’t just cold, it was crazy cold. The more the mercury hovers around zero, the more it goes from feeling like winter, to downright post-apocalyptic. Out in the countryside, the monoscape of white in such a broad space just adds to that notion. But really, it’s just a Thursday in January. After taking a … Continued
As I jump out of the car, I am surprised to sink just above my knees in the snow. Everything all around is white on white, except the beasts before me. Just on the other side of the fence are a herd of buffalo. Their giant bearded heads and humpbacks are a welcome contrast to … Continued
Lonely and hopeful. Sounds like a country music song. It is country all right, just not a song. It’s the wintry scene spilling out in all directions from the backcountry of agriculture right here in the Yakima Valley. On a recent meander through some open space on the Yakama Reservation, I had the chance to … Continued
Like the silent smoke that finds an entrance in a forest, touches trees and spreads, the spirit of the season finds an entrance to our valley, too; tagging people, streets and homes. With it, it brings a variety of colors, smells and sounds. It brings us peace. The new colors give us joy. Christmas makes … Continued
I’ll never forget the day my love affair began. It was the summer of 2014. I entered Treveri Cellars winery and from the first taste I was madly in love. The bubbles in that Blanc de Blanc shimmered and gurgled in that elegant flute, then tickled my nose like the feathers of miniature angel wings. … Continued