Edmonton’s food culture thrives in its street food offerings and vibrant farmers’ markets. From the freshest local produce at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market to the flavorful dishes served up by food trucks, Edmonton has become a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re after artisanal cheeses and baked goods or street food staples like tacos, shawarma, and Korean BBQ, there’s no shortage of delicious finds in the city. This article will dive into Edmonton’s street food and markets and provide insights for cooking some of these iconic dishes at home.
1. Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market: A Local Treasure
The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is Edmonton’s go-to spot for locally sourced products. Every Saturday, vendors come together to offer a wide selection of meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and handmade products. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to support local artisans and farmers.
Cooking Tips for Farmers’ Market Finds:
- Artisanal Cheeses: Add local cheeses to your charcuterie boards, or melt them into sauces for pasta or fondue.
- Fresh Meats: Grill or roast market-fresh meats like beef, bison, or pork for a flavorful main course. Slow-cooking methods like braising can make meats even more tender.
- Baked Goods: Pick up fresh bread or pastries to enjoy as-is, or use them as a base for sandwiches and appetizers.
2. Edmonton’s Food Trucks: A Street Food Paradise
Edmonton’s street food scene is bustling with food trucks offering everything from Mexican tacos and Middle Eastern shawarma to Asian-inspired Korean BBQ. These mobile restaurants are scattered across the city and provide quick, flavorful meals for people on the go. Popular trucks like Drift Food Truck, Calle Mexico, and The Lingnan Express have become mainstays in the city.
Cooking Tips for Street Food at Home:
- Tacos: Create your own street-style tacos by using soft corn tortillas and filling them with grilled meats, fresh salsa, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Shawarma: Marinate chicken or beef in a mix of yogurt, garlic, cumin, and lemon juice, then grill until perfectly charred. Serve wrapped in flatbread with tahini or garlic sauce.
- Korean BBQ: Thinly slice beef or pork, then marinate in a soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic mix. Grill quickly on high heat and serve with rice and pickled vegetables.
10 FAQs About Edmonton’s Street Food and Markets
- What makes Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market special?
- The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is Edmonton’s longest-running indoor market, featuring over 130 vendors selling fresh, locally sourced food and handcrafted goods.
- What kinds of food trucks can I find in Edmonton?
- Edmonton offers a diverse selection of food trucks, including those serving Mexican tacos, Middle Eastern shawarma, Korean BBQ, gourmet burgers, and even specialty desserts.
- How can I cook shawarma at home like the food trucks?
- Marinate chicken or lamb in a yogurt-based mixture with garlic, cumin, coriander, and lemon juice. Grill on high heat, then serve with flatbread, fresh vegetables, and a garlic sauce.
- What are some popular dishes I can buy at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market?
- You can find a range of fresh products such as homemade pies, artisanal cheeses, locally raised meats, baked goods, honey, and organic vegetables.
- What’s the secret to making the perfect taco?
- Use fresh, soft corn tortillas and top them with flavorful, well-seasoned meats, a tangy salsa, and garnishes like cilantro, onions, and lime for a street-style experience.
- What local meats are available at Edmonton’s farmers’ markets?
- You can find bison, elk, pork, chicken, and grass-fed beef, all sourced from local farms. These meats are perfect for grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking.
- What’s the best way to prepare Korean BBQ at home?
- Marinate thin slices of beef or pork in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Grill quickly at high heat, and serve with rice and Korean sides like kimchi.
- How often is the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market open?
- The market is open every Saturday, year-round, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering fresh goods even during the colder months.
- What’s a common price range for street food in Edmonton?
- Food truck meals typically range from $8 to $15 depending on the dish, making it an affordable option for a quick and tasty bite.
- Are there any vegan or vegetarian options at the markets and food trucks?
- Yes, both the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market and Edmonton’s food trucks offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, including plant-based tacos, fresh produce, and baked goods.
Conclusion
Edmonton’s street food scene and farmers’ markets provide a diverse and flavorful experience for food enthusiasts. From the locally sourced meats and cheeses at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market to the vibrant, multicultural offerings of the city’s food trucks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving tacos, shawarma, or artisanal products, Edmonton’s food scene brings international flavors right to your doorstep. Plus, with these simple cooking tips, you can recreate some of these beloved street foods in your own kitchen, enjoying a taste of Edmonton no matter where you are.