Cooking and Using Local Foods from North Iowa

We know that there’s a learning curve with eating locally. Below are some resources to help you take full advantage of local flavors and availability.

Preserving the Harvest

For all the latest info on home food preservation, including delicious tested recipes, check out these Food Preservation Resources.

Preserving extends so much further than the canning than more think of. It can include drying, freezing, fermenting, and more! Share your favorite preservation tips and tricks with us!

Making Healthier Choices

Swaps to make for your health and your local economy.

Use a New Local Ingredient

Iowa is home to some iconic specialty crops ranging from aronia berries to morel mushrooms to sweet corn and more!

Eating Seasonally

Keep a calendar handy!

These are the best times to buy Iowa fruits and vegetables. The harvest seasons are approximate. Weather conditions can speed up or delay crop maturity.

Iowa Seasonal Harvest Calendar

Seasonal Harvest Calendar

DIY & Kitchen Tips

Using local products extends past the ingredients in your meals. Here are some fun ways to further incorporate local into your kitchen.

Check back as we add more!

Cookbook Recommendations

We know there are so many great recipe options out there – we are biased, and encourage you to explore our growing recipe database, but below are some of our favorite cookbooks to reference: