With the start of September comes a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, like peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, blueberries, pumpkin, and more! Just a short walk or drive away from a number of local grocery stores, produce stands, and markets, the Beacon's location offers many options to find fresh, local produce and spark inspiration for your fall culinary creations.

An awesome way to make your grocery choices more sustainable and support your local community is to buy locally and seasonally. Buying locally, when possible, not only helps small businesses, it reduces the environmental impact of your food by cutting down on fuel consumption and emissions associated with transportation. Local produce also tends to be fresher and more nutritious, because it wasn't bred for long shipping times and an extended shelf life. Buying locally also allows you to look for farmers avoiding or reducing their use of pesticides, hormones, etc.

According to the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, if all Maryland families who are able spent ~$12 per week on locally-grown products for 8 weeks, $200 million would be invested back into the livelihoods and growth of local farmers! Click the farmer's market guide below to find some great places to find local produce and visit the AACED website at www.aaedc.org/agriculture/farmers-markets/agriculture-guide/ for the annual Arundel Grown Guide, a directory featuring local agricultural businesses, from produce, baked goods, and honey to eco tourism, vineyards, etc.

Late summer, early fall is the perfect time to enjoy a wide selection of seasonal produce. What seasonal ingredients are you most excited to use in your recipes this season? Check out the recipes below for some inspiration:

Cozy Entrees:

Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1.5 Cup onion, diced
• 3 Cup carrots, diced
• 1 pkg (20 oz) Butternut Squash
• 1 container (32 oz) Vegetable Broth
• 1 Tbsp Vegetable Broth Concentrate
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat oil in stockpot on low. Add onions – cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 min, until soft, but not browned. Add carrots – cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 min. Increase heat to high. Add butternut squash and broth – bring to boil, about 7 min. Reduce heat to med-high. Simmer, about 30 min, until squash is tender. Add broth concentrate – stir. Remove from heat – cool slightly. Add mixture to blender in two batches – puree until smooth. Season as desired.

Turkey Pumpkin Crockpot Chili

Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 Tbsp ground coriander
• 1 Tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2lbs ground turkey
• 2 Tbsp thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 (15oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 (15oz) cans cannelini bean, drained
• 2 Cup chicken broth drained
• 1/2 c. heavy cream

Instructions:

• Sauté: In a large stockpot or skillet set over medium, heat the olive oil and sauté the carrots and onions until they become soft – about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Toast the spices: Add the minced garlic, coriander, paprika, cumin, black pepper, fresh thyme, and salt and toss with the vegetables to toast slightly for 1 additional minute.
• Brown the meat: Move the vegetables to the side of the pot or skillet and add the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it down into small pieces as it browns and then toss it together with the other ingredients in the skillet.
• Set up the slow cooker. Add the mixture from the skillet to your slow cooker along with the pumpkin puree, beans, and broth (leave the cream out). Set the temperature to low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. When ready to serve, stir the cream into the chili.

Breakfast Treats:

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup rolled oats
• 2 Cup milk or water
• 2 apples, diced
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine oats, water or milk, and diced apples. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until oats are fully cooked and apples are softened. Stir in cinnamon and sweetener, if desired. Serve hot. Garnish as desired with chopped nuts, raisins, etc.

Blueberry Muffins:

• ½ Cup Butter
• 1 Cup Unsifted Flour
• 1 Cup Sugar + 1 Tbsp for topping
• 2 Large Eggs
• ½ Cup Milk

Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy; add eggs one at a time and beat. In a second bowl, combine dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to creamed mixture along with milk and vanilla. If desired, mash 1/2 c. blueberries and stir into batter, turning it blue-tinted. Next, add remaining blueberries and stir.

Prepare baking sheet with muffin cups and preferred method for greasing. Fill greased muffin cups with batter. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired. Bake for 25-30 mins. Remove and cool in pan. Run a knife around the edge of each muffin until it is loose and can be freed from the pan, then let cool. If desired, brush muffin tops with butter and sprinkle with sugar. Enjoy!

Fall Smoothies:

Apple Pie Chia Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 apple, cut into small pieces
• 1 c. of your preferred milk
• 2 Tbsp chiai seeds
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch nutmeg & salt, to taste

Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.

Power Pumpkin Seed Smoothie

Ingredients:

• ¼ Cup vanilla yogurt
• ¼ Cup pumpkin puree
• 1 Tbsp pumpkin seeds, raw
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• ¼ Cup you preferred milk
• 1 Cup ice

Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.

Oatmeal Pear Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 large pear seeded and chopped
• ½ Cup your preferred milk
• ¼ Cup vanilla yogurt, low-fat
• ¼ Cup rolled or quick-cooked oats
• 1 Cup ice
• ½ Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp almond butter
• ½ tsp ginger, finely grated
• Pinch cinnamon, to taste and extra to garnish

Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.

Happy Fall, everyone!

The post Seasonal Tastes: Local Farmer’s Markets & Fall Recipes appeared first on The Beacon at Waugh Chapel Blog.

During its early history as a colonial capital city, Annapolis was considered the “Athens of America,” for its cultural and intellectual offerings, as well as its thriving social life. This small port town has gone by multiple names since it was founded, from the Puritan name “Providence” to “Anne Arundel’s Towne,” after the wife of land owner, Lord Baltimore. In 1649, Royal Governor, Sir Francis Nicholson, decided to move the colony’s capital city and, in doing so, give the new capital a name change. He settled on “Annapolis,” after the heir apparent to the British throne, Princess Anne. To this day, Anne’s royal badge, a crown on a Scottish thistle and Tudor rose, is depicted on the city flag. 

 Best known today as home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis played an essential role in early American history. Only a 20-minute drive from The Beacon, Annapolis is the perfect place to step back into the past or enjoy modern offerings. Check out the list below for some of our favorite places to visit! 

Historic Annapolis

Annapolis is a cozy, walkable city with plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore. One of the first cities to receive the National Historic Landmark District status, the vibrant Annapolis Historic District is bursting with ways to step into the past. This part of the city is centered on the spiritual and government hubs, with streets radiating out from there. Check out this unique city planning design as you explore. 

The Maryland State House’s spectacular wooden dome is one of the most beautiful in America and also one of the oldest. This building played an important role in post-Revolutionary America. Explore the halls that saw George Washington resign from leading the Continental Army, housed the new nation’s government from 1783 to 1784, and hosted the Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Constitutional Convention. 

From the State House, take a short walk down to the harbor to visit the Naval Academy Museum and Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. One of Annapolis’s most unique destinations, the Naval Academy Museum features two floors of exhibits focused on the history of wartime seafaring, the development of the U.S. Navy, and more. Experience the stories of men and women who served their country at sea through artifacts and multimedia displays. Focused on Annapolis’ rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, The Maritime Museum teaches visitors of all ages through engaging, hands-on exhibits, programs, and events. 

As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum offers a variety of events, exhibits, and educational programs to build appreciation of African American history and cultural. Their permenant exhibition focuses on African American nation-builders, community leaders, activists, and other prominent figures who shaped Maryland and the nation as we know it today. Be sure to check their website to see upcoming temporary exhibitions and events. 

Want to explore the city with a local guide? Consider booking a tour! If you'd like to rest your feet and still see as much as possible, the Towne Transport Historic Annapolis Trolley Tour, starting at the Annapolis Visitor’s Center, will take you past the most popular historic sites and along the waterfront. Another fun tour option is the Tours and Crawls Ghost Tour! During this leisurely stroll through historic downtown, you’ll be treated to a spooky journey through the darker side of the city’s history. 

If you’re looking for a sweet treat while exploring the Historic District, check out Annapolis Ice Cream Company on Main Street, one of four Always Ice Cream Company locations. Voted Best Ice Cream in Annapolis and Central Maryland in Best of Annapolis 2022, this Maryland small business offers homemade ice cream with unique, seasonal flavors. You can't go wrong with any flavor, but a staff favoite is Cookie Moster!

A quick drive into the countryside will also reveal a number of great destinations to both relax and learn. One of our favorites is Historic London Town & Gardens! From living history demonstrations to thriving gardens, this beautiful destination is a treat for the senses, offering a variety of learning opportunities and events.  

Looking for more to see, do, and taste? Check out visitannapolis.org or flip through the official Annapolis Visitor’s Guide. 

We hope you enjoy your Annapolis staycation! 
 

The post August in Annapolis appeared first on The Beacon at Waugh Chapel Blog.

Sometimes, though, it’s difficult to grill outdoors. It can be too hot, raining, or perhaps you want less clean-up. This Father’s Day, maybe the father figures in your life would appreciate an easy way to prepare a delicious barbecue without leaving their own kitchen? If you’re still looking for something to treat your loved ones, an indoor grill pan is a great option for a gift. They work incredibly well on gas ranges like the ones in our kitchens.

There are several options on the market and chefs suggest a heavy, thick skillet with deep “ribs” to give you the grilled look on your burgers, vegetables, etc. Click here to check out some Food Network recommendations on the best grill pans.

Now that you have the option to grill indoor or outdoor, it’s time to cook something delicious! Check-out the recipes below to get started.

We hope you and the father figures in your life have an amazing Father’s Day!

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow squash
• 1 zucchini
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed
• 1 small red onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 ear fresh corn, cut into 1-inch rounds
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Tzatziki, pesto, or Greek dressing for drizzling/serving

Instructions:
Heat a grill to medium-high and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the vegetables into similar sized chunks and thread onto 4 skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the skewers for 8 minutes per side or until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred. Remove from the grill, season to taste, and serve with desired sauce or dressing.

Classic Grilled Ribs

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork ribs
• 1/3 cup paprika 
• 1/8 cup ground pepper
• 2 spoons of salt
• 3 spoons of sugar cane
• 1 spoon powder garlic
• 1 spoon powder onion
• 1 spoon of cayenne powder
• 1 spoon of ground cumin
• Hickory sauce or Olive oil

Instructions:
First make a bunch of little holes with the tip of your knife along the pork ribs to allow the spices to soak-in while cooking and increase the flavor. Next, in a bowl mix all the spices until well-blended, and then use the hickory sauce or olive oil to rub the seasoning into the ribs; make sure to apply the mixture to the front and back. Set it on the hot grill and cook to your preference.

The post Grilling With Dad appeared first on The Beacon at Waugh Chapel Blog.

                                                          
Sometimes it is difficult to make plans when you don’t want to leave your dog home alone for the day. Luckily, The Beacon is conveniently located near a number of destinations you can enjoy with friends, family, and fur babies. Check-out the options below and let us know if you have any additional suggestions!

Towsers Branch Park – 3min
This is the closest dog park to us, a 3min drive or 20min walk away. Make a right on Evergreen Road, which runs behind Wegman’s, continue for a few blocks, then make a left on to Jackson Road. The park will be on your left.

Two Rivers Dog Park – 11min
When exiting the Waugh Chapel Towne Center, turn right onto MD-3 South and continue until the first traffic light by the Aldi. Turn right onto Conway Road and continue for a little over 2mi. Turn left onto Two Rivers Blvd and continue until you see the dog park on your left.

Bell Branch Park – 12min
Located in Crofton, this park has a lot of amenities for you to enjoy, like picnic areas, trails, and playgrounds. For more information visit: www.aacounty.org/locations-and-directions/bell-branch-park

Montpelier Farm – 21min
This pet-friendly attraction offers fun for the whole family. You can enjoy the picnic areas, playgrounds, special events, and more. Open Summer Sundays June 5 – July 31 then re-opening for the annual Sunflower Festival August 12,13, 14, 19, 20, and 21. Come Autumn, the farm will open September 17 – November 6 for the annual Fall Festival. Remember, dogs must remain on a leash while visiting the farm. For more information visit: www.montpelierfarms.com/

Watermark Journey Annapolis and Baltimore – 25min
Take a cruise (leased dogs are welcome) in Annapolis or Baltimore and enjoy the day on the Chesapeake Bay. For more information, visit: www.watermarkjourney.com/category-event/public-cruises-water-taxi/

Downs Park & Quiet Water Park – 25min
Ready to soak up the sun? Check out these two dog-friendly beaches along the Chesapeake Bay to enjoy a picnic, concerts, and events in the calm water of the shore. Please visit their websites for more info: www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/parks/downs/index.html
www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/parks/quiet-waters/

We hope you enjoy your next day out with your furry friend and don’t forget to tag us @thebeaconatwaugh in any pictures you share enjoying these local outings!

The post Dog Days of Summer – Local Outings with Your Furbaby appeared first on The Beacon at Waugh Chapel Blog.