Of Sheepish Fields and Freezer Yields

The ground here in western Loudoun is frozen hard. I am feeding my goats a lot more hay since grass is sparse and slow to grow, even in this relatively mild winter. Thanks to the drought that hit northern Virginia, hay costs twice what it did last year, and the quality is poorer. Many of the small local producers have felt the repercussions of the water shortage in the county, and both producers and consumers will be feeling the economic consequences for months to come. I wonder if, in the midst of this mid-winter funk, my goats dream of Spring-the green pasture, the tender mulberry leaves, the soft, sweet grass. I know I do right about now.

So, to shake off those winter blahs, I decided it was time to explore some of the treasures of my freezer. I rummaged through it to find some locally-raised holiday fare. Fields of Athenry is one of my favorite vendors from the Purcellville Farmers Market. So I have stocked up my freezer with their produce.

Athenry's whole chicken made a rich soup, perfect for those cold winter days we had around the New Year. Their birds are usually prepared the day before sale and fresh frozen. The boneless skinless breasts (which I wrapped and froze individually) were lean and an excellent value. I grilled them up to star in a calorie-conscious meal to help me stick to one of my recurring New Year's resolutions.


My favorite freezer item has to be their lamb sausages. They are so versatile! I have used them in stews, pasta toppings, and just grilled with onions, mushrooms, and peppers! To die for, especially served on a crusty baguette! It just goes to show that simple, high-quality ingredients can be prepared and served simply and still steal the mealtime show.

I have their ground lamb and homemade goetta still in the freezer to look forward to. You can find out all about Fields of Athenry Farm and its very personable and knowledgeable owner, Elaine Boland, at their website. You can sample some of their products at a number of local eateries, including on the Baa Baa Black Sheep special pizza at Fire Works Pizza in Leesburg, and at Magnolia's at the Mill in Purcellville. You may also be able to order some of their produce directly by calling Elaine at 540-687-3936 for current availability.