Littleton Food Coop

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2020 Patronage Dividends

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We are excited to announce, on behalf of the Littleton Food Co-op’s Board of Directors and our staff, that we will be issuing a Patronage Dividend for Fiscal Year 2020. 

A Note From Our General Manager

The Littleton Food Co-op, like everyone else, experienced plenty of challenges in 2020. Despite all of the added COVID issues, the Co-op had a very strong year with sales over $16.8 million in 2020. Our annual Patronage Dividend is determined by our Net Income, which was also well above record levels. After discussions with the LFC Board of Directors, we’re pleased to announce a Patronage of 3.53% of sales; 50% of which will be paid to Members, and 50% will be retained by the Co-op as capital. This is by far the largest Patronage we’ve ever paid.

I would like to ask that our Members consider donating some or all of their Dividend to the Littleton Food Co-op Community Fund. The LFCCF is the Non-Profit Fund of our Co-operative which makes your donation tax-deductible. Every year all proceeds of the fund are donated to one of the many nonprofits in our area. This year, the Co-op will be matching all donations to the Community Fund through December 2021, up to $50,000! This is just another way that the Co-op gives back to our community. We’ve always been impressed by the generosity of our Members, and for that we thank you. 

None of this would have been possible if it weren’t for the great team of employees at the Co-op and our volunteer Board of Directors. We also have to thank our Membership, over 8,000 households in the North Country, that own the Littleton Food Co-op and support it by shopping here. I am proud and honored to serve such a fine community-minded organization.

Cooperatively, 

Ed King, General Manager

FAQ’s

What is a Patronage Dividend? 

  • Patronage Dividends are determined by the Net Income of the Co-op in a given year (2020), as a way for the Co-op to share its earnings with Members.
  • Each year the Board of Directors votes on whether to issue a Patronage Dividend, based on the Net Income of the previous year.
  • This is one of the most powerful tax benefits we derive from being a Cooperative. Co-ops are allowed to distribute the net income earned from sales to Members, as a rebate to Members. The Co-op does not pay taxes on this amount. Nor is your share considered taxable income, since it’s essentially a deferred price reduction on purchases you’ve already made.

How is the Patronage Dividend Calculated?

  • The 2020 Patronage Dividend is $400,000, or 3.53% of Member purchases.
  • 50% ($200,000) will be distributed among our Members as a Patronage Dividend Rebate.
  • 50% ($200,000) will be retained by the Co-op as capital. Retaining capital is one way of strengthening the long-term health of your Co-op, allowing us to re-invest in future improvements to the store.

How do I know if I qualify for a Patronage Dividend Rebate?

  • To qualify, you must:
    • Be a current Member of Littleton Food Co-op;
    • Have owned at least 1 Member Share between 12/29/2019 and 1/2/2021;
    • Be in good standing with the Co-op; ie, your Membership has not ever been revoked or refunded due to disagreement or belligerent behavior.
  • The more you shopped at the Co-op between 12/29/2019 and 1/2/2021, the higher your Patronage Dividend Rebate will be.
  • Qualifying Members with rebates greater than $5.80 will receive a letter in the mail in October 2021 notifying them that they have Patronage funds available to them.
  • All available funds from Patronage Dividend Rebates will be applied as a credit to Members’ accounts. Your cashier can look it up in our system.

How do I use my Patronage Dividend Rebate?

  • Rebates are redeemable at Littleton Food Co-op and have been applied as a credit to your account.
  • When making a purchase, let your cashier know that you would like to use your rebate.
  • We encourage you to donate your rebate to the Littleton Food Co-op Community Fund (LFCCF).
  • Now through 12/31/21, the Co-op will match all donations made to the LFCCF, up to $50,000.
  • If your rebate is $50.00 or more you may request payment by check. Contact Minnie Cushing at mcushing@littletoncoop.org.

What is the Littleton Food Co-op Community Fund?

  • LFCCF is a non-profit 501c3 that allows Co-op Members and shoppers to contribute to an endowment that donates to local non-profit organizations.
  • The Co-op earns interest from this Fund, which is then donated to a local organization each year.
  • For more information about LFCCF, click here.

Using Overlooked Ingredients to Reduce Food Waste

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Many of us cook at home and throw away perfectly good food scraps, trimmings, and peels, which could be otherwise used in lots of delicious recipes! Not only is it economical to make the most of the food in your pantry and fridge, it’s also eco-friendly to use up everything and keep it out of the landfill. Here are some delicious recipes that use odds and ends which often get overlooked and discarded – not only do they reduce food waste, but include ingredients that add a lot of creativity and delicious, unexpected flavors to your cooking!

Apple Core Syrup

Ingredients

18 – 20 APPLE CORES – DESEEDED
2 CINNAMON STICKS (OPTIONAL)
1/4 CUP HONEY

Directions

Add apple cores to a large pot with 4 cups water and cinnamon sticks, if using.
Simmer over medium-low heat for 1 hour, stirring and pressing down on cores with a wooden spoon occasionally.
Strain out cores using a fine-mesh strainer, and return the liquid to the pot.
Reduce by half over low heat, 15 – 20 minutes, and add honey. Stir to dissolve, and cook for an additional 5 – 10 minutes.
Remove from heat, and let cool completely.

Store in the fridge in airtight jars for up to 2 weeks.

Broccoli Stem Salad

Ingredients

BROCCOLI STEMS
1/2 TSP. SALT
1 CLOVE GARLIC, MINCED (OPTIONAL)
1/4 TSP CANE SUGAR
1 TSP SESAME OIL

Directions

Cut off the broccoli stem from the florets Ingredients and reserve the florets for another dish
Trim off the outer layer of the broccoli skin from the stem using a knife and/or a vegetable peeler.
Rinse the stems before cutting them into small bite-sized pieces.
Place the broccoli stems in a small bowl and add the salt and garlic.
Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, drain any excess liquid and give the broccoli a quick rinse and drain to remove any excess salt
Add the cane sugar and sesame oil (to taste) and refrigerate to serve cold.

Easiest Ever Carrot Chips

Ingredients

4 MEDIUM CARROTS
1 – 3 TEASPOONS OLIVE OIL
1/8 TEASPOON SALT

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Peel carrots, then slice into strips using the vegetable peeler. Avoid rotating the carrot for as long as possible to make wider sections; the thicker the pieces, the better they will turn out!
Add the carrot strips to a bowl, and toss with olive oil. Start with a smaller amount— you don’t need much! If they seem dry at the full 3 teaspoons, add another teaspoon.
Place carrot peelings in a single layer on a cookie sheet, sprinkle with salt.
Bake for 10 – 20 minutes until crispy, tossing once or twice during cooking. (Exact cook time will depend on the thickness of the slices).
Serve and enjoy!

Rosemary & Olive Oil Crackers

Ingredients

3 CUPS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
1 TEASPOON SUGAR
1 TEASPOON SALT (SET ASIDE TWO PINCHES)
1 CUP WATER
1/4 CUP OLIVE OIL
1 TABLESPOON DRIED ROSEMARY

Directions

Set oven racks to the lower half of the oven and then preheat to 450 degrees.
In a bowl, mix 3 cups flour, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt (minus two pinches, set aside), and 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
Add 1 cup water and 1/4 cup oil. Stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Adjust with additional water or flour as needed
Put half the dough on one large baking pan.
Roll out to 1/8 inch or less, directly on the pan. Cut into pieces using a rotary cutter (such as a pizza cutter) – rectangles, squares, triangles, whatever shape is desired– just keep them all uniform in shape and size.
Brush with water and evenly sprinkle on a pinch of salt over dough. Prick with a sharp tool (fork, skewer, knife, etc.) so the crackers bake flat without puffing up too much.
Repeat with the second half of the dough then bake for about 15 minutes, switching and rotating pans halfway through.
Remove crackers from the pans as they turn brown and let under-baked ones continue baking. Cool on a cooling rack until they are crunchy.

Store in a jar for up to 5 days.

Egg Shell Powder

Ingredient

DOZEN EGGSHELLS, RINSED

Directions

Preheat the oven to 225 degrees F.
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the eggshells and cook for 2 minutes.
Remove the shells from the water and transfer them to a baking sheet.
Bake the shells for 45-50 minutes, until they are completely dried out.
Transfer the dried shells to a spice grinder or high-powered food processor.
Blend until the shells are completely broken down into a fine powder.

The eggshell powder will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. Add to smoothies for a calcium boost.

Kale Stem Hummus

Ingredients

1 CUP DRIED CHICKPEAS
1 TEASPOON BAKING SODA
STEMS FROM 1 BUNCH KALE (SEE NOTE)
3 GARLIC CLOVES
2/3 CUP TAHINI
1 TEASPOON FINE-GRAIN SEA SALT
2/3 CUP FRESHLY SQUEEZED LEMON JUICE
ICE WATER
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, FOR SERVING

Directions

The night before:
Place the chickpeas in a large bowl, cover them with at least 2x their volume of water, and soak overnight.
The next day:
Drain and rinse chickpeas.
Add chickpeas and baking soda to a medium-size pot over high heat, and stir constantly for 3 minutes.
Add 6 – 8 cups of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pot and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the chickpeas are very tender. Check on them occasionally to skim off any foam or chickpea skins on the surface.
Fill another medium-size pot with water and bring to a boil. Add kale stems and cook 30-45 minutes until they are very tender, then drain.
Blend kale stems, garlic, and tahini in a food processor.
Once the chickpeas are cooked, drain & add to the kale stem mixture along with salt and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
Add 2 tablespoons of ice water and blend for 5 minutes until the hummus is creamy. Continue adding ice water gradually, blending as needed.
To serve, spoon into a shallow bowl and drizzle with olive oil.

Store in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Carrot Top Pesto

Ingredients

1 CLOVE GARLIC CHOPPED
2 TBSP FRESHLY-SQUEEZED LEMON
JUICE (ABOUT 1/2 OF A LEMON)
1 TSP FRESH LEMON ZEST
(ABOUT 1/2 OF A LEMON)
CARROT TOPS FROM 1 LARGE OR
2 SMALLER BUNCHES OF CARROTS
(YIELDS 1 CUP BLANCHED)
1/4 CUP FRESH MINT LEAVES
4 GREEN ONIONS FRESH GREEN PARTS ONLY
1/2 CUP RAW WALNUTS (OPTIONAL)
3 TBSP OLIVE OIL
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE

Directions

First, blanch the carrot tops:
Bring a pot of water to a boil, and prepare a large bowl with ice cubes and cold water in it.
Remove thick stem pieces, then add the carrot tops to the boiling pot, stirring occasionally.
Once the carrot tops are bright green and tender, remove them from the pot, drain, and dunk in ice water.
Drain, wring out excess liquid and spread on a plate to dry.
Add all of the ingredients except olive oil to the food processor and blend into a chunky paste.
Add the olive oil a tablespoon at a time until combined.
Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if desired.

Once cooled to room temperature, store in the fridge in an airtight container for several days. The bright green color may fade to a darker green – this is normal.

To use as a pasta sauce, cook your pasta in salted water according to package directions.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Add the reserved cooking water and carrot top pesto, stir to combine, and cook over low heat until warmed. Serve immediately.

Learning About Juneteenth

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Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and emancipation, and while it’s been a well-known holiday in Black communities in many parts of the country, it’s not as widely recognized in other areas. It was just recently declared a federal holiday, and is often celebrated as a second Independence Day on and around June 19.

So let’s learn: what is Juneteenth all about?

First, a history lesson: Although the Emancipation Proclamation was declared in 1863, word traveled slowly, and not every enslaved Black person knew they were free right away. It wasn’t until two years later – June 19, 1865 – that 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas and announced that slavery had been abolished.

Learn more about Juneteenth’s history here.

For years Juneteenth has been widely celebrated with parades, music, festivals, storytelling, family reunions, and of course lots of great food. Cookouts and potlucks are traditional, along with traditional southern food like beans, black-eyed peas, catfish, potato salad, fried chicken, and greens.

Toni Tipton-Martin wrote a great article about Juneteenth food traditions.

Red foods are a special Juneteenth tradition since the color red symbolizes the strength and resilience of enslaved people. Hot sauce, red velvet cake, strawberry soda, hot link sausages, watermelon, and strawberry slab pie are all common foods at Juneteenth gatherings.

Here’s Nicole Taylor’s recipe for Strawberry Slab Pie! 

Most importantly, Juneteenth is a day to uplift Black voices, celebrate their achievements, and listen to their experiences! 

The Fruit and Veggie Grilling Guide

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While most people associate outdoor grilling with burgers, hot dogs, and steaks, the grill imparts big flavors to fruits and veggies too. A wide array of produce paired with spice rubs, marinades, and sauces galore will keep your patio table overflowing with delicious additions to your grilling repertoire.

Seasonal summer vegetables just happen to be perfect for grilling: zucchini, eggplant and bell peppers are naturally tender and become even sweeter on the grill. Slice these vegetables about 1/4-inch thick and toss them in an easy marinade for 30 minutes (or better yet, overnight) before grilling for a few minutes per side.

A simple combination of wine vinegar, olive oil, chopped garlic and herbs, and salt and pepper are all you need for a tasty marinade. This easy mix will turn grilled vegetables into Italian antipasti to serve with bread, olives, and cheese. Or change the blend to vegetable oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chopped garlic and ginger for Asian-flavored vegetables that are delicious with rice. Store-bought dressings with a vinegar base make wonderful marinades as well.

Summertime peaches, apricots, nectarines, and figs are delicious grilled. Cut fruit in half and remove any pits, then coat lightly with oil. For a sweet-savory side dish to grilled pork, chicken, or lamb, sprinkle on a little salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar, then grill for a few minutes per side. And for dessert, dust with brown sugar, then place the halves on a clean part of the grill for a few minutes per side before serving with ice cream or pound cake (or both).

Some grilling tips

  • Use moderate heat (not high); if it’s a charcoal grill, move the charcoal to one side and grill your fruits and veggies on the other side, over indirect heat.
  • Be sure to oil your grill thoroughly—fruits and vegetables are high in natural sugars, which means they can easily burn and stick to the grill. Before you begin cooking, clean the grill well, preheat it, and then use several layers of paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to grease it.
  • Cut vegetables into the largest possible pieces to prevent them from falling through the grill grate and avoid extra time spent flipping more pieces. For example, cut zucchini in slices along the length of the vegetable, rather than slicing into small rounds.
  • Corn doesn’t always cook through on the grill. Blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes, then grill for 5 to 10 minutes to finish

This article originally appeared on Co+op Welcome to the Table.

Game Day Snacks

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Sriracha Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Total Time: 40 minutes; 15 minutes active
Servings: 6 (makes 24 meatballs)
Spice up your next gathering with these amazing meatballs. Try them as an appetizer, made into sliders or atop rice.

Ingredients

Meatballs
1 pound ground turkey
3 green onions, minced
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 teaspoon tamari
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Glaze
1/3 cup apricot preserves
1 to 2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon tamari
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°F.
In large bowl, gently combine all meatball ingredients until everything is evenly distributed. Form mixture into small balls, using 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of meat per ball. Place the meatballs onto a rimmed baking tray and into the oven. Bake for 10 minutes and turn the meatballs. Bake for another 10 minutes until cooked through.
While the meatballs bake, combine all glaze ingredients in a small pot. Whisk and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes or until mixture is slightly thickened. To serve, toss or brush meatballs with warm glaze.

Serving Suggestion
Served whole and garnished with sliced green onion or toasted sesame seeds on an appetizer platter or made into sliders, these meatballs really bring the heat if you double the amount of ginger and Sriracha in the mix. Make it a meal by serving the meatballs on a bed of steaming hot jasmine rice.

Nutritional Information
275 calories, 12 g. fat, 105 mg. cholesterol, 482 mg. sodium, 18 g. carbohydrate, 1 g. fiber, 24 g. protein

Big Game Guacamole

Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
This fabulous guacamole is simple to make and is sure to be a crowd pleaser served as a dip or on burgers, burritos or tacos.

Ingredients
3 Haas avocados, ripe
1/4 cup diced fresh tomato (seeded)
2 tablespoons diced red onion
1 teaspoon chopped garlic (one clove)
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lime juice (half a lime)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1 teaspoon fresh cilantro, minced (optional)

Preparation
Slice the avocadoes lengthwise, remove the pits and scoop the green flesh (discard any brown flesh) into a bowl. Use a fork to mash the avocado pulp to a chunky texture. Add the lime juice, garlic, onion, and spices and mix well. Add the tomatoes and cilantro, mix and serve.

Serving Suggestions
Guacamole is a popular snack with crisp tortilla chips and a common ingredient in burritos, tacos and burgers. Try it on top of chili or inside a grilled cheese with some fresh pico de gallo.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 190, Fat: 15 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 5 mg, Carbohydrate: 14 g, Dietary Fiber: 9 g, Protein: 4 g

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Ingredients- Pulled Pork
2 1/2 to 3 pounds boneless pork loin roast (or use a traditional pork shoulder or butt)
1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
2 cups barbecue sauce (purchased or homemade)
1 cup salsa
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon salt

Ingredients – Nachos
12 ounces tortilla chips
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup pico de gallo, homemade or store-bought
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
1/2 cup guacamole
1/4 cup jalapenos
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons sour cream

Pork Preparation
Remove excess fat from pork. Place pork in 3 1/2- 6-quart slow cooker; arrange onion on top. Mix barbecue sauce, salsa, herbs, and spices; pour over pork. Cover and cook on low heat 8 to 10 hours or until pork is very tender. Remove pork; place on large plate. Use 2 forks to pull pork into shreds.

Nacho Preparation
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet.
Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on the baking sheet. Top with shredded pork, beans, pico de gallo and cheese.
Place into oven and bake until cheese has melted, about 10-12 minutes. Top with fixings, including guacamole, jalapenos, cilantro and sour cream.

Apple Cheddar Turkey Burgers

Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Juicy grated apples are the secret to these moist, flavorful burgers.

Ingredients
1 small and 1 medium apple
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon ground sage
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, divided
3/4 teaspoon salt
Fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 pound lean ground turkey
4 whole wheat buns, toasted
1 tablespoon honey
4 ounces cheddar cheese, thinly sliced

Preparation
Grate or shred the smaller apple into a large bowl. Add onion, sage, Dijon mustard, salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Mix the ingredients well, then add the turkey, and gently mix with your hands. Divide the mixture into four even portions and form patties.
Thinly slice the medium-sized apple crosswise and remove the seeds. Toast the buns. Stir the Dijon and honey together in a small bowl.
To cook the burgers, place a large skillet with a lid over medium heat and heat for about a minute. Spray or brush the pan with canola oil and add the patties. Let cook for about 5 minutes per side, uncovered, then insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the patty. When it reads 160°F, the burgers are done. (See Tips & Notes below for a grilled version.) Top each patty with a slice of cheddar, cover the skillet, and remove from the heat to allow the cheese to melt a bit. Place each patty on a bun; top with apple slices and honey-mustard spread. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestion
Serve these cheeseburgers and with thick-cut potato chips and coleslaw or—to carry the apple theme even further—a Waldorf salad.

Tips & Notes
For a grilled version, grill the burgers for 4-6 minutes per side until cooked (an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the patty should read 160°F).

Nutritional Information
480 calories, 20 g. fat, 110 mg. cholesterol, 1010 mg. sodium, 46 g. carbohydrate, 7 g. fiber, 36 g. protein

Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges with Jalapeño Sour Cream

Total Time: 50 minutes; 10 minutes active
Servings: 6
These tasty wedges pair perfectly with roast turkey sandwiches, breakfast hash, or a big bowl of chili.

Ingredients
2 pounds sweet potatoes, washed and cut lengthwise into large wedges
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper

Jalapeño Sour Cream
1/2 cup light sour cream
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Pinch of salt

Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
In a large bowl, mix together the oil and spices. Add the sweet potato wedges and toss until well coated. Spread the seasoned wedges out on a large sheet pan. Place in oven and bake for 20 minutes, stir or flip the wedges, and bake an additional 20 minutes until browned and tender.
While potatoes are roasting, mix together the sour cream, jalapeño pepper, lime and salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Remove the wedges from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving with the jalapeño sour cream.

Serving Suggestion
These tasty wedges are the perfect accompaniment for roast turkey sandwiches, breakfast hash, or a big bowl of chili; or serve as a party snack.

Nutritional Information
247 calories, 7 g. fat, 10 mg. cholesterol, 136 mg. sodium, 45 g. carbohydrate, 7 g. fiber, 3 g. protein

Veggie Chili with Beer

Total Time: 30 minutes; 15 minutes active
Servings: 5
Veggie chili is a great dish to share with friends and family, it’s hearty and satisfying for everyone, and vegetarians will be grateful for the option. Adding beer elevates a simple chili to a rave-worthy one, great with a hunk of cornbread and, of course, a beer.

Ingredients
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
1 medium yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 large carrot, chopped
1 cup wheat beer, red ale or lager
1 14-1/2 ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes, puree
1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Sauté the onion for five minutes over medium heat, until soft. Add the chili powder and chipotle and stir until fragrant, then add the peppers, carrot and beer. Raise heat to high and bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to medium-low for 5 minutes. Uncover and add the remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors and thicken the chili.

Serving Suggestion
Serve with a green salad, a hunk of cornbread and beer.

Nutritional Information
185 calories, 3 g. fat, 0 mg. cholesterol, 855 mg. sodium, 32 g. carbohydrate, 9 g. fiber, 7 g. protein

These recipes originally appeared on Co+op Welcome to the Table

2020 Gift Guide

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White Mountain Apiary Sampler Gift Packs

You haven’t had honey until you’ve had honey from Littleton’s native bees.

Upper Valley Coffee Company

This whole-bean, locally-roasted coffee is from South Ryegate, VT. It’s a favorite at the Littleton Farmer’s Market and now you can have it at home!

White Mountain Images 

Gorgeous local landscape prints by Chris Whiton, our Ops Manager – available as cards, prints, calendars, and more!

Bee’s Wrap Reusable Beeswax & Paper

These sustainable Sandwich and Leftovers Wrappers are ec-friendly and will help keep your leftovers fresh.

Co-op Houseplants

Nothing beats the winter doldrums like a leafy plant in a sunny windowsill!

Lake Champlain Chocolate Restore Bars

This scrumptious local chocolate from Burlington, VT comes in eye-catching rainbow ombre wrappers and is made with fair trade certified ingredients.

Everyone for Everybody 3-In-1 Face, Body, & Everywhere Lotion

A universal stocking stuffer that’s great for anyone who wants smooth, soft skin.

Eddie’s Bakery Apple Cider Doughnuts

These aren’t your typical ‘donut’ style doughnuts, no. These are classic, ’59 Bel Airs, doughnuts made the way the great fried creator intended — fresh, homemade, and delicious.

Arvum Balsamic Cream with Spanish Sherry Vinegar

Sweet, smooth, and a little tart: perfect for sauces, dressings, marinades, or desserts.

Side Hill Farm Pear or Plum Paste

Perfect for gifting or put a dollop on your cheese board to add a bit of sweetness.

La Riojana Cooperative Fair-Trade Wines

Great for sipping on a winter evening with a good book, or serve at your holiday table.

Wood Stove Kitchen Mixers

These cocktail (or mocktail!) syrups are locally produced in NH and are infused with fruit and herbs.

Bota Box Minis

500 milliliters of Vine-grown deliciousness to help your Oenophilliac (lover of wine) wind down after a long day. Enjoy responsibly.

Angry Goat Pepper Hot Sauces

Award-winning hot sauces with heat ranging from “mild,” to “tell my wife I love her,” from White River Junction, VT.

Vann’s Spice Blends

Bulk bags of savory spice blends are perfect for anyone who makes their own sausage, or likes to smoke and cure their own meats.

VT Smoke and Cure Gourmet Summer Sausage

Serve some up on your next fancy grazing platter alongside some cheese, olives, and crackers. Or just snack on it straight up, we don’t judge.

Marich Milk Chocolate Covered Maple Bourbon Pecans

A staff favorite here at the co-op! Find these dangerously tasty treats in our Bulk Department.

Littleton Food Co-op Branded Klean Kanteens

Keeps the cold stuff cool and keeps your hot stuff hot — all without adding more plastic to your neighborhood’s landfill.

Littleton Food Co-op Original Canvas Tote Bags

Sturdy, classy, and fashionable — plus they’re produced locally by our friends at Enviro-Tote in Londonderry, NH!

A Littleton Food Co-op Giftcard

Give the gift of Cooperation, available any time the Co-op is open.

October is Co-op Month

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October is Co-op Month! Co-op Month has been celebrated annually across the United States for more than half a century. It is a time for cooperative businesses to reflect on their shared principles and to educate others about the value of belonging to a cooperative.

The theme for this year’s Co-op Month is “Co-ops Commit: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” highlighting how co-ops like ours are working to create diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces and boards, and how co-ops can better meet the needs of communities that have been excluded from economic participation and advancement.

We’re also celebrating Co-op Month in 2020 by promoting the Littleton Food Co-op Community Fund! During the month of October, all of the Round-Up dollars donated at the register will go towards our fund, with support from the Cooperative Community Foundation. Learn more about our Community Fund.

Across the Northeast, people have used food co-ops to improve access to healthy, local, affordable food, and build stronger, more inclusive communities. Most of these grocery stores got their start during times of social and economic change, enabling people to access healthy food, support local producers, and provide good jobs. More recently, a new wave of startups has been growing, representing a renewed interest in food security, and racial and economic justice. Today, the Neighboring Food Co-op Association (NFCA) includes 40 food co-ops and startups, jointly owned by more than 150,000 members and employing over 2,350 people. Together, these co-ops generate shared annual revenue of nearly $347 million, with local products representing close to a third of total sales.

Food co-ops are not alone in their contribution to more inclusive and resilient local communities. Co-ops are everywhere, and they provide all kinds of products and services. From farmer co-ops to worker co-ops, credit unions to mutual insurance, and housing co-ops to energy co-ops, co-operative businesses thrive across the U.S. economy, where 350 million people are co-op members. Nationwide, co-ops generate $514 billion in revenue and more than $25 billion in wages, according to NCBA CLUSA. And because they are member-owned, co-operatives are rooted in their communities and governed by the people who use them to meet their needs, rather than outside investors. Learn more in this great little video:

Stop by Littleton Co-op, or a nearby co-op if you’re not from our area, and learn more about what makes co-operatives different. Look for the “Go Co-op” signs on the shelves that identify products that were “co-op made”. You may be surprised by what you find, including dairy products from Cabot Creamery Co-op and Organic Valley, fresh produce from Deep Root Organic Co-op, fairly traded coffee, tea, and chocolate from Equal Exchange, beverages from Katalyst Kombucha and La Riojana wines, seeds and bulbs from FEDCO, naturally fermented vegetables from Real Pickles, Northeast Grown frozen fruits and vegetables from your Neighboring Food Co-ops — and many others!

 

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This past June we celebrated Pride Month by raising a rainbow flag on our flagpole and re-affirming our fundamental belief that everyone is welcome here at the co-op. We received varied feedback about it from our Membership as well as people in the community, which lead to a lot of conversations regarding inclusion, diversity, and human rights.

This week our General Manager, Ed King, received a very touching letter from one Member and longtime local resident who was moved to write to us about the positive impact of our rainbow flag:

“Dear Ed King,

My name is Ronnie Sandler and I have been a Coop member since the early days. I am Member #617. I am writing to thank you for flying the rainbow flag during Pride Month in June. I also want to acknowledge the work of the new North Country Pride organization.

The first time I drove into Littleton down Cottage St., with the rainbow flag flying off the flagpole in front of the Coop, my heart was full. And then to drive down Main St with 16+ more rainbow flags in many shops and restaurants was amazing.

I have been an out proud Lesbian in the Littleton area since the 1970’s. When we first asked the women’s center, which was in the Opera House back in the mid-seventies, to have a Lesbian Support Group, they said they would be happy to host it, but we would have to call it a “women’s sexuality support group.”

I am so proud to be a part of this North Country community which is showing how welcoming we can be. I have heard from a few younger LGBTQ kids how good seeing those flags made them feel!

So, thank you for showing your pride this June.

Someone suggested that I might do an article for your upcoming member newsletter…or feel free to reprint this letter. 

Thank you,

Ronnie Sandler”

https://littletoncoop.com/rs-letter/

August Recipes from Cooking With Chad

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Bun-less Burger Bowls

Serves 2

Ingredients
2 Burger patties (beef, turkey, lamb, falafel, bean, etc…)
Any grill-able veggies on hand – onion, zucchini, bell pepper, tomato, asparagus, eggplant
2 large handfuls of fresh greens – spinach, baby kale, arugula, and other salad greens
Fresh veggies – shredded carrot, grated beet, cucumber, celery, radish, cabbage, tomato,
avocado, etc.
Dressing – bottled Caesar, balsamic, tahini, a simple lemon and olive oil, or anything else
desired.
Optional – seeds, nuts

Directions
1. Pre-heat grill to medium-high
2. Cook burgers and grill-able veggies, transferring to a plate after cooked
3. Assemble bowls with greens, raw veggies, grilled veggies, burger and drizzle with
dressing. Can top with and optional items like seeds/nuts or fresh herbs.

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Zucchini

Serves 4

Ingredients
4 medium summer squash or zucchini (about 1.5 lbs)
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup unseasoned rice vinegar
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 Tbsp. hot chili paste
2 Tbsp. with cooking oil (avocado recommended)
1 lime, halved
½ small shallot, thinly sliced into rounds
¼ cup coarsely chopped cilantro leaves and small tender stems
1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
Salt to taste

Instructions
1. Prepare a grill for medium-high heat
2. Cut each zucchini in half, lengthwise, then score a criss-cross pattern with a knife
3. Toss zucchini with 1 tsp. salt in a colander set over a bowl and let sit for 10 minutes -pat
dry with a paper towel
4. Meanwhile, combine homey, vinegar, soy sauce, and chili paste in a small saucepan and
bring to simmer over medium-high heat until reduced by half (5-7 minutes). Remove
from heat and stir in 1 Tbsp of oil.
5. Toss the zucchini in remaining oil. Turn zucchini cut side up and brush with glaze
6. Grill zucchini cut side down about 3 minutes, until lightly charred around edges.
Continue to grill another 2-3 minutes, turning the zucchini every minute and brushing
cut side with glaze. Reserve any leftover glaze.
7. Transfer zucchini to platter
8. Squeeze juice from 1 lime into a medium bowl and add shallot and cilantro; season with
salt and toss
9. Drizzle zucchini with any leftover glaze and top with the herb salad. Sprinkle with
sesame seeds and enjoy!

Grilled Carrots with Avocado & Mint

Serves 4

Ingredients
1 tsp. toasted and crushed cumin seeds or ground cumin
3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tsp. honey
¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 serrano or jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
1 1” piece ginger, finely grated
1 ½ lb. medium carrots, scrubbed, tops trimmed and halved lengthwise
2 avocados, cut into large pieces
½ cup mint leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
1. Prepare grill for medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, add cumin, lemon juice, and honey.
3. Whisk in ¼ cup of olive oil until combined.
4. Stir in chili and ginger and season
5. Toss the carrots with remaining 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a rimmed baking sheet
6. Season with salt and pepper
7. Grill carrots, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred ~12 minutes
8. Immediately transfer to bowl and toss with sauce, season with salt and pepper
9. Arrange carrots and avocado on platter, pour any additional sauce over and top with mint.

Grilled Pineapple Dessert

6 servings

Ingredients
1 Pineapple but into spears
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup melted butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
1. Lay the pineapple spears on a pan. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. Whisk together the
butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread on top of the pineapple using a
cooking brush.
2. Grill for about 7-10 minutes or until it is starting to turn golden brown. I always like to
brush the excess sauce from the pan back on top of the pineapple before serving.

Staying Eco-Conscious During COVID-19

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On a large scale, the Coronavirus pandemic has given us hopeful stories relating to how our global slowdown has resulted in positive environmental signs, such as reduced carbon emissions and cities with clearer water than ever before. But on a more individual level, many people are finding their eco-conscious habits interrupted, either by state mandates or by personal concerns about contamination and just how far one reusable really does travel. However, there are still ways to practice environmental sustainability without breaking any laws or making yourself feel uncomfortable. 

Speaking of uncomfortable: It is important to note that we *are* currently living through a global pandemic right now, where self preservation should be of the utmost importance. If environmental sustainability is not at the forefront of your mind right now that is completely and totally okay. Being an eco-warrior is a lifelong journey, and as we know, journeys often veer off their intended path. But the path is always available when you’re ready to start again. 

1. Leave your reusable bags in the car

We know, this one sounds a little silly. Isn’t the point of bringing your reusable bags into the store to…ya know…bring them into the store? At the time of publication (7/8/20) Governor Sununu’s mandate is still in place that no personal or reusable bags can be used in the store. Yes, even if you leave them in the cart. Yes, even if you bag yourself. No bags in the store. So where does that leave us? Our innovative customers have found the perfect way to get around this is to leave your bags in the car, repack your groceries into your basket or cart, and wheel them outside to be packed in the car. It may take an extra minute or two out of your day, but it will save a lot of material from your trash can. Thanks to the genius customers who suggested this practice! 

Feedback on the temporary reusable bag ban? Contact Gov. Chris Sununu at (603) 271-2121

 

2. Shop in the bulk department

While bags at the front end are a no go, we can still invite (and encourage) customers to use their own containers in the bulk department. The bulk department is where you can get grains, nuts, baking supplies, coffee, and more with zero packaging. All you have to do is get the weight of your empty container; strap on a pair of gloves (available at the bulk section); fill your container with one bulk product; and label the container with the PLU (price-look up) number. You don’t have to worry about disposing of the packaging or paying an extra price for the packaging on your favorite staples. 

 

3. Look for packages with naturally reusable containers

 

Aside from the bulk department, many other reusable containers sit hidden in plain sight throughout the store. Some are purposely designed to be reusable and will advertise themselves as so. For instance, one popular item is cheesecake varieties that come in reusable glass ramekins. Hatchland Farms offers milk in glass bottles for a $2 deposit; you can either keep the container or bring it back to the store for your deposit and Hatchland will use it again (after sanitizing it of course). There are more reusable containers throughout the store, but you have to be more creative to find them. An old oatmeal container can make an innovative car trash can with a lid. A wine or kombucha bottle makes a thrifty vase. A deli package can be rinsed and used to pack another lunch. The possibilities are pretty far reaching. 

 

4. Be conscientious about your produce bags

Many of us still retain the mindset from our parents that it goes “pick up a piece of produce, put it in a bag.” But, it doesn’t always have to be like that. Some produce comes with it’s own natural bag, like a peel or a rind that you wouldn’t eat anyways. In addition, it is recommended you wash your produce when you return home anyways, which will do the job of a bag in getting rid of any unwanted germs. Another option is to put the produce sold by the each with others sold by the each; for example, avocados, lemons, and scallions can co-habitate. This is not a precursor to us removing the produce bags; they will always be there for those who want them. All we ask is before you reach for that white or green bag you pause and ask yourself, “do I really need a bag for that?”

 

5. Try making fewer larger trips instead of more frequent smaller trips

This doubles as a Coronavirus protection tip and a sustainability tip. The easiest way to point out the eco-value of this strategy is in the gas you save driving or otherwise getting yourself to the store. But in addition, think about this: how many times do you get to the cash register and say “I wasn’t planning on buying this much?” Pretty often, right? We naturally lean to wanting to fill the basket or cart we have, even if it means through unnecessary items and impulse buys. This isn’t fun for your wallet, but it also means more packaging used and potential food waste. Going to the Co-op with the intention of filling your cart means your cart will be a greater percentage of the food you actually need, the minimum packaging required, and you will have to expose yourself to all the people in the store less. Don’t be embarrassed either about your cart size at checkout–no matter how big you think your order is, we’ve seen bigger. 

 

6. Keep reusable silverware in the car

We’ve all been there; you enter the store and smell something delectable and you think “I’ll just take a glance at the prepared foods section.” And 20 minutes later you’re walking out with 3 sides, 2 entrees, and a dessert to share. While we’re happy to provide you with silverware, a great tip is to keep one or two sets in the glovebox of your car. Keeping some reusable silverware in a pencil pouch or other storage means you’re always ready for an impromptu picnic or a new item that just can’t wait until you get home. If you are concerned about the spread of germs and bacteria through surfaces, this is also a way to ensure you are the only one handling your eating utensils. 

 

While these are all tips and tricks for staying more eco-conscious during the pandemic, they can certainly be applied to any moment of your life, or even any retail establishment outside of your local food co-op. What environmental sustainability tricks have you discovered recently? 

 



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