During the colder months, we tend to trade in the fresh fruits and vegetables we associate with summer for the rich, hearty meals of winter. Soups laden with browned meats and plump beans are a true staple of our winter diets. Even though summer has come and gone, there are still plenty of fresh vegetables available, some still growing and thriving in the garden despite the cold temperatures. These fruits and vegetables are rich with vitamins and nutrients to keep us healthy through the winter, so why not dish out the nutrients with a vitamin rich side dish using our winter recipe roundup? 

To make adding a vitamin packed side dish to your meal a cinch, we’ve gathered some of our favorite, simple fall vegetable, side dish recipes for you to try.

Leafy Greens & Brassicas

Many sturdier greens thrive in the garden through Pacific Northwest winters. Kale, swiss chard, and collard greens are among the sturdy greens that keep growing right on through the winter and are available fresh in our markets. 

Kale

Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, K, B vitamins, calcium, manganese, potassium, and magnesium. It’s no wonder kale makes the short list for power packed veggies. It is also loaded with antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects. 

On the Menu:

Easy Massaged Kale Salad

Kale Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta

Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard is packed with vitamins A and K. Just one cup fulfills your daily recommended intake of both vitamins.

On the Menu:

Wilted Chard with Shallots and Vinegar

Risotto with Swiss Chard, Radishes, & Lemon

Brussel Sprouts

Brussel Sprouts are especially high in vitamins C and K. They are also one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

On the Menu:

Fried Brussels Sprouts

Perfect Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Red Cabbage

The bright color of red cabbage comes from pigments called anthocyanins, which, in simple terms, translates to loads of antioxidants that promote a healthy immune system. Red cabbage is easy to add to a meal. Slice and use in the place of lettuce on your tacos, add to a green salad for extra color and nutrients, or mix it up in this delicious and fresh winter slaw.

On the Menu:

Winter Rainbow Slaw

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples

Winter Squashes

Pumpkins are not just for jack-o-lanterns, though we do love a skillfully carved toothy grin. Loaded with beta carotene, vitamin C and E, iron and folate, pumpkins and other winter squashes offer support for vision and promote immune health. 

Pumpkin

On the Menu:

Savory Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin Apple Quick Oats

Pumpkin Spread

Kabocha Squash

On the Menu:

Roasted Kabocha with Maple Syrup & Ginger

Paleo Creamy Kabocha Squash Mash

Delicata Squash

On the Menu:

Parmesan Crusted Delicata Squash

Roasted Delicata Squash

Root Vegetables

High in fiber and in vitamins C and A, as well as potassium, root vegetables are an easy choice to add to your winter diet. Many root vegetables are excellent for longer storage, so you can stock up and be sure to have them on hand, when you get the craving.

Beets

On the Menu:

Maple Orange Roasted Beets and Carrots

Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad

Carrots

On the Menu:

Simple Roasted Carrots

Hummus Dip for Sliced Carrots

Parsnips

On the Menu:

Parsnip & Potato Mash

Parsnip Ecrasse

Sweet Potatoes

On the Menu:

Slow Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Sweet Potato Roast

If you need even more inspiration to add a little vitamin goodness to your winter menus using fresh, local, seasonal ingredients, check out our Guide to Local Seasonal Eating or ask one of our amazing produce specialists what seasonal fruits and vegetables they particularly enjoy.

Although the good times of sitting on patios for Sunday brunch are limited these days, that shouldn’t stop you from hosting the ultimate fall brunch at home! Every season is brunch season, right?! Brunch seems to be an activity everyone looks forward to. Whether it’s sippin’ on the bottomless mimosas or bloody mary’s in addition to the amazing food, it’s a great opportunity to bring people and families together. That’s why Tacoma Boys has put together this guide for how to host the perfect fall brunch! 

Fall Brunch Beverages

There are many different fall brunch beverages that help make a good brunch lineup. Cocktails, mocktails, coffee, and juices are some of the most popular choices when it comes to brunch. Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys has everything you need to fulfill all of your fall brunch beverage needs!

Mimosas

Mimosas are arguably one of the most popular brunch beverages, and putting a fall spin on the classic orange juice/champagne combo will take your fall brunch to the next level. Head to the juice section of your local Tacoma Boys and choose a fall flavor that suits your taste. Tacoma Boys recommends any of the following R.W. Knudsen juices:

• Apple Ginger
• 100% Apple
• Pear

After choosing your juice, it’s time to pick out the bubbles. Tacoma Boys carries a large selection of sparkling wines and champagne. Some of the current favorites include:

• Riojana Argentina Sparkling Wine 
• Tarantas Cava Brut
• Vega Medien Cava Brut
• Tarantas Sparkling White Wine
• Saracco Moscato D’Asti

If you’re looking to take the fall theme up a notch, throw in a cinnamon stick, fresh apple slices, and fresh cranberries to garnish your mimosa when serving. To make these mimosas family-friendly, simply top the juice with non alcoholic sparkling apple cider instead of champagne. If you’re not a mimosa fan, check out these fall-inspired beverages for more ideas!

Coffee

If you’re hosting your fall brunch before noon, you most likely will need to have some sort of caffeine option depending on your guests! Tacoma Boys suggests keeping the coffee simple and offering 2-3 fall-inspired creamer and sweetener options if desired. If you’re looking for iced coffee options, Califia Cold Brew Concentrate is highly recommended. You can read more here about our coffee selections, but some of the current favorites include:

• Ranch Roast 
• Cutters Point 
• Poverty Bay Coffee Co.
• Umbria 
• Raven’s Brew 

Fall Creamer Options

• Nutpods Peppermint Mocha – dairy-free
• Califia Pecan Caramel Creamer – dairy-free
• Organic Valley Eggnog
• Smith Brothers Plain Half & Half

Fall Sweetener Options

• Runamok Maple Cinnamon Vanilla Infused Maple Syrup
• Coombs Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup
• Wholesome Organic Dark Brown Sugar
• Wholesome Organic Pure Cane Sugar

The Best Brunch Food for Hosting

There are numerous options when it comes to brunch foods. However, when you’re hosting it’s best to keep it simple so you can enjoy the brunch yourself and not have to worry about being in the kitchen the entire time. Choose an egg dish, protein, and something sweet. This way you are able to have a range of foods while keeping it simple!

Egg Dishes

Being that eggs are one of the most common brunch foods, it only makes sense to have some sort of egg dish in the lineup. Head on over to the refrigerator section where the eggs are and choose between options like Stiebrs Farms Organic Free Range Brown Eggs or Vital Farms Pasture-Raised Eggs. If you want to keep it extra simple we recommend scrambling the eggs with some Green Valley Lactose-Free Grass-Fed Butter and a little sea salt. Other egg dish options include:

• Apple, Sweet Potato, and Sausage Breakfast Casserole by Raising Generation Nourished
• Eggs Benedict Breakfast Bake by Foodtastic Mom
• Fluffy & Delicious Scrambled Eggs by Savory Experiments

Protein Options

Everyone loves a good side of bacon or breakfast sausage! Check out the deli section at your local Tacoma Boys and choose between the thick-cut bacon options: Hickory Smoked, Applewood Smoked, and Cherrywood Smoked. You can also find Jolly Posh Foods Back Bacon and Tender Belly Uncured Breakfast Sausage in the freezer section. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are many meat-free options you can find in the freezer section as well!

Sweet Options

Offering a sweet food option at brunch is a must. Whether that’s pancakes, french toast, or cinnamon rolls, there are many different ways to offer something sweet when hosting brunch at home. From quick box mixes to frozen waffles, to homemade recipes, Tacoma Boys has your sweet brunch needs covered.

Quick Mixes

• Stonewall Kitchen Traditional Crepe Mix
• Birch Benders Pumpkin Spice Pancake Mix – gluten free
• Annie’s Pancake & Waffle Mix
• Pamela’s Pancake & Baking Mix – gluten free

Freezer Section

• Van’s Gluten Free Original Waffles
• Katz Gluten Free French Toast
• Kodiak Cakes Protein Packed Power Waffles

Fall Sweet Brunch Ideas

• Pumpkin French Toast Casserole by Just So Tasty
• Apple Pie Crepes by Tidy Mom
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes by Sally’s Baking Addiction

Hosting Brunch with Tacoma Boys

Whether you’re hosting brunch for a small group or just for your family at home, Tacoma Boys has all the food and drink you need to create the perfect fall brunch. Hosting doesn’t have to be a big glamorous event! Keep it simple so you’re able to spend quality time with loved ones! Pop on over to your local Tacoma Boys and take a stroll through the store to find all of your fall brunch needs. If you need guidance on any choices, don’t hesitate to ask one of the Tacoma Boys helpers for advice and direction! 

Happy brunching! 

What exactly does local seasonal eating mean? Local seasonal eating involves consuming produce that is ready for harvest in its correct season depending on where you live. For fall, that means all of your favorite local fall produce is ready for harvest during the fall season! This is why you see an influx of apples, pumpkins, turnips, pears, and more at your local Tacoma Boys when the fall season approaches in the Pacific Northwest.

Although it may be exciting to get your pumpkins and go on a fall baking rampage, there are numerous other benefits that come with eating and shopping locally and in-season. Some of which you may not know! From personal health benefits to local farming support, local seasonal eating is Tacoma Boys’ way to go. 

Local Seasonal Eating & Its Benefits

It’s Good For Your Health

When you’re eating locally, this typically means you’re loading up on local fresh fruits and vegetables that have recently been harvested. It also means you are getting a wide variety of whole foods in your diet throughout the year. Different fruits and vegetables have individual nutrient dense compounds that help build your immune system and fight off free radicals. This can be antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phyotchemicals that can help prevent and protect from various diseases and sometimes even cancer. For example, you can read here the multiple health benefits that come with eating fall favorite pumpkin!

The Produce Tastes Better

Choosing to eat local, in-season produce means you are getting freshly picked fruits and vegetables. The result of freshly harvested goods is that the produce tastes amazing! Local produce should also have a brighter and more vibrant appearance as opposed to produce sitting on store shelves for long time periods. Produce that is grown out-of-season is typically harvested early, transported, and ripened artificially in a hot house. After this, it is sent to large chain stores to be sold.

What sets Tacoma Boys apart is the fact that we are able carry fresh produce that may not be in-season in the PNW. How is this possible? Out-of-season produce is often flown in and has only been off the vine for less than 24 hours. This allows Tacoma Boys to provide fresh produce from all seasons year-round without any artificial ripening or unnecessary, prolonged transportation.

Supports Local Farms 

When you purchase food that is grown locally, it helps support local farmers maintain their land and continue to grow produce for you! An amazing benefit that comes along with this is that local farmers can tell you how and where the food was grown. This allows you to have more knowledge about where your food is coming from and how it was brought up – providing peace of mind overall. 

In Season Local Fall Produce

Some local fall produce that Tacoma Boys looks forward to seeing every year in the PNW:

Fruits

• Pears
• Apples
• Grapes
• Quince
• Persimmons
• Pomegranates

Squash

• Pumpkin
• Acorn squash
• Butternut squash
• Zucchini

Other Vegetables

• Eggplant
• Fennel
• Beets
• Brussels sprouts
• Peppers
• Carrots
• Turnips
• Sweet potatoes
• Potatoes

Herbs

• Rosemary
• Parsley
• Thyme 
• Sage

Cooking in Season with Tacoma Boys

Breakfast

There are numerous breakfast dishes that allow you to use fresh PNW fall fruits and vegetables. From sourdough fig toast to baked eggs, below are a few of Tacoma Boys’ favorite ways to use all of fall’s favorites. 

Pumpkin French Toast Casserole by Inspired by Charm

French toast, pumpkin, and a casserole?! It doesn’t get much better than that! This is a great dish to prepare ahead of time and bake the next morning. 

Sausage Apple Breakfast Casserole by Live Love & Good Food

What is it about sausage and apples that makes such a great pair? Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys has a large selection of sausage and fall’s favorite fruit (apples) to choose from to make all of your breakfast dreams come true. 

Lunch & Dinner

Gingered Butternut Squash Soup

This recipe was created by one of Tacoma Boys’ customers – Faye of Tacoma – and embodies everything there is to love about fall! The soup is warm, cozy, and requires minimal ingredients. Be sure to add this to your list this season!

Brie, Fig, & Apple Grilled Cheese by Two Peas & Their Pod

Didn’t think it was possible to make a fall-inspired grilled cheese? Think again! This recipe features the popular cheese, brie, as well as fig jam. Tacoma Boys’ very own Strawberry Fig Preserves would be the perfect addition to this recipe!

Butternut Squash Chili by Spend With Pennies

This is the ultimate recipe for living in the Pacific Northwest! A good hearty bowl of chili loaded with butternut squash. The best part? It’s done in the slow cooker – saving you cook and clean up time. That’s a win-win! You can scout all of your squash recipe needs at your loacal Tacoma Boys.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken by Delish

Oh yeah, you read that right – Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. Mind completely blown. This recipe is warm and comforting, using a couple fall favorites – sweet potato and apple cider. It’s a pretty simple recipe that is sure to please the entire family – kids, too!

It’s time, yet again, to don your lederhosen, twist up some pretzels, and crack a malty german beer. If lederhosen aren’t your thing, you can still throw a great Oktoberfest beer tasting party in your American casual wear. The extensive beer selection at Tacoma Boys has you covered. 

Beer with a Side of History

Oktoberfest began in 1810 when Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria was married to Therese Charlotte Luise of Saxony-Hildburghausen (don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz). The king threw a party for the people in his new wife’s honor with free beer, food, and horse races. Suffice it to say he threw a party worth repeating. For over 200 years Oktoberfest is still celebrated at the beginning of October in Germany and all around the world. And, while you may not care to celebrate a queen long since departed from us, you might get behind the idea of beer and celebrating the end of a good summer harvest.

A typical Oktoberfest beer has a strong, toasty malt aroma, is brewed in spring and aged throughout the summer. American made Oktoberfest beers can vary from one another and from the traditional style served in Germany. So why not throw an Oktoberfest beer tasting party and see how they all stack up next to one another?

Tacoma Boys Oktoberfest Beer Contenders

Festbier
Occidental Brewing Co.
Portland, Oregon

Petrichor
Skookum Brewery
Arlington, WA

Oktoberfest
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Chico, CA

Festbier
Reuben’s Brews
Seattle, WA

Fest Bier
Chuckanut Brewery
Bellingham, WA

Oktoberfest
Left Hand Brewing Co.
Longmont, CO

Pretzel Day
Matchless Brewing
Tumwater, WA

Oktoberfest
Black Raven Brewing Co.
Redmond, WA

Make It a Competition

Be playful in the way you present the beer selection. Sure, you could just drop those beers in a cooler with ice for your guests. That’s a great approach for a casual Oktoberfest. But, to make it a festive occasion, why not set up a true Oktoberfest tasting and rank those beers?!

Sampler Trays

Called a “flight” in the beer world, a selection of 4-6oz pours of beer is a great option to give guests a true sample of each beer selection. Keep it simple by placing a large sheet of butcher paper across your table and hand labeling each beer directly on the butcher paper. While beer connoisseurs will tell you there is correctly shaped glassware for each style of beer, you can make your life easy and use small mason jars for tasting glasses. You’ll still get a great tasting beer and you can save those jars for all that jam you plan to make when berry season comes back around. 

Beer Tasting Cards 

Create a simple card for guests to rank beers and then compare notes. Tasting cards make comparing beers more straight forward. Typical beer tasting cards might include categories like: appearance, smell, taste, aftertaste, and drinkability. You can also throw in a fun category like “describe beer using a song lyric” or “if this beer was a color it would be _______.” Why not give a prize for the most creative responses, while you’re at it?

Tournament Bracket

Create a simple bracket and have guests sample two beers at a time, taking a vote to see which beer will advance into the next round. This is a great, interactive way to compare the beers. 

If you want to go the extra mile, start the night out by letting each guest make a guess at which beer will take home the championship and send the winner home with a six pack of beer or a gift card to pick out their favorite beer at Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce.

Don’t Forget the Nosh and Beer

There’s a reason why taprooms are notorious for snack pretzels. Beer and food go hand in hand. Tacoma Boys has your german grub covered. Here are some ideas to keep your guests well fed.

Brats and Beer

…a match made in heaven. Tacoma Boys is your local fresh meat market. If you’re not sure what to get, ask your Tacoma Boys butcher for their favorite german sausages to try. Grill up sausages and then cut them into bite sized portions to serve on a platter with toothpicks and ample amounts of stone ground mustard and sauerkraut.

Pretzels and Mustard

Pretzels are the quintessential German snack food. Make easy, shortcut soft pretzels with our ready-made pizza dough by Kalama Sourdough Bakery found in our cheese section. For a true German treat, dip those tasty pretzels in mustard. Pick out a sampling of mustards from our large selection.

Spicy and Aged Cheeses

Skip the mild cheeses that might be drowned out by the robust flavor of a fest beer and head for the sharp cheddar, jalapeno jack, blue cheese, and goudas. You’ll have plenty to choose from at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. The cheese aisle is almost as much fun as our candy aisle.

Something for Every Palate

If beer is really not your jam, come check out the extensive selection of wines, ciders, and even hard kombucha drinks at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. If you’re looking for a new culinary adventure or for something to pair with your dinner, one of our wine and beer specialists is sure to have a suggestion for you.

Pumpkins are here, and not a moment too soon! With the rain settling in for the season, we could use a spirited orange squash to brighten up the place. And this year’s crop does not disappoint! Looking for more than your typical run-of-the-mill pumpkin to spruce up your porch this fall? In keeping with what you’ve come to expect, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce has a wide and unique selection of autumn squash. We’re certain you’ll find something to fall for! 

Tacoma Boys’ Surplus of Sensational Squash

Did you know that pumpkins, like most produce, come in many varieties? If you’ve ever been to one of Washington’s famous pumpkin patches, you’ve probably seen many of them. Lucky for you, you don’t have to go all the way to a pumpkin farm to grab one for yourself! We’ve got pumpkins a-plenty right here at your neighborhood Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Let’s meet the contenders. 

The Warty Goblin

Whoever names these things either has an immense imagination or none at all. This gorgeous gourd looks just like it sounds. Perfect for…well, we’re not exactly sure what it’s good for, but we sure love it! You don’t even have to carve this one up for it to be a spooky spectacle, it’s already got all the ghoul you need. Or pair it with some mums in your best attempt to soften its…dramatic..features. Either way, this little guy has all the makings of a front porch showstopper. 

The Cinderella 

Put it next to your Warty Goblin, and you’ve got yourself a fairytale! Cinderella Pumpkins are known for their rich color, flattened round shape, and creamy sweet flavor. Grab three, stack them on top of each other, stuff some leaves in between, and you have yourself a centerpiece. 

The Porcelain Doll Pink 

It’s said these pumpkins were created to raise awareness of breast cancer. Cute as a button with a heart of gold! What more could you want in a pumpkin? 

The Ghost 

In keeping with the Halloween theme, this white pumpkin is all the rage for decorating and carving alike. Prefer painting to carving? A Ghost Pumpkin makes a perfect blank slate. (Moms, pumpkin painting is a great substitute for carving for the littles among us.) A classy alternative to the typical orange and red motif of fall, cluster a few white pumpkins together for an understated effect. 

The One Too Many 

We would say you can’t make these names up, but somebody clearly did. Cheekily named for its resemblance to the bloodshot eyes of someone with a hangover, One Too Many Pumpkins are a great blend of white and orange all in one squash. Cluster with one white pumpkin and one orange for a pleasing symmetry, or let this striking autumn squash stand alone. 

3 Ways to Enjoy Your Autumn Squash

Now that you know what you’re getting, we’ll talk you through what to do with them!

1. Chow down. 

This is the most obvious and least likely reason you’ll purchase a pumpkin this year. You’ll probably make your pumpkin pies, scones, breads, and donuts from canned pumpkin like the rest of us (we have some canned pumpkin by the way, if that’s the route you choose, but we digress…) If you do choose to upstage us all with your Martha Stewart ways, you probably already have a recipe passed down from your great grandmother. But in case you don’t, you can give this one from Allrecipes a try. For this, you’ll want to use a sweet, smooth variety, like a Sugar Pumpkin or the Cinderella. Most pumpkins are edible, but some are better for eating than others, so do your research. May it be worth your extra efforts!

2. Carve a Jack-O-Lantern!

Is it even fall if you haven’t spent some time elbow deep in a pumpkin, digging around for the last vestiges of its slimy innards? We think not. Do you go for the classic toothy grin and triangle eyes? Or do you prefer to get creative with well known cartoons or pumpkin versions of political figures? Either way, you might want to go with the traditional Jack-O-Lantern pumpkin. Although technically, you can pick any kind of autumn squash you want, as long as it’s big enough to withstand whatever carved creation you choose. 

3. Decorate for fall. 

This is the easiest of your options AND works perfectly in combination with either of the above. Here’s how it works. You buy a pumpkin. Any pumpkin will do. However many you want. Then you put them literally anywhere. And suddenly it’s fall! Want a cute porch? Put a pumpkin on it. Need a fall tablescape? Pumpkin it up! Wondering what to do with your mantle now that the leaves are falling? One or two pumpkins will do! You get the idea. Leave it there as long as you want (not too long…it’s still food), dust it off, and cook it up or carve it out. Who knew a fruit so orange could be so multifunctional? Also, who knew pumpkin is a fruit? Now you know. You’re welcome.

Fall in Love With Tacoma Boys

In addition to a wide variety of pumpkins, you’ll find a large assortment of other autumn squash with which to cook or decorate at your nearest Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce. Swing by and ask one of our friendly store associates for help picking a pumpkin or other squash that best meets your needs! And for the finishing touch on your fall decor, don’t forget a pot or two of our beautiful fall mums. We’re confident you’ll find everything you need to welcome this fall season with open arms.

Summer and long road trips go together like ice cream and waffle cones. And here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have everything you need to fuel your road trip this summer!

Maybe it’s that windows-down, warm-breeze-in-your-hair feeling, or the way the late evening sunshine makes it feel like you could explore to the end of the world and back before bed. Whatever it is, these warm summer months have us bit bad by the travel bug–especially travel via the open road! And what’s the number one supply necessary for a great summer road trip? Fuel, of course. For your car sure, but let’s face it…it’s the road snacks that are going to make or break the ride. Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have just the thing. Whatever you like to keep in the center console–sweet, salty, crunchy, or fruity–we’ve got you covered. So, buckle up for our top contenders to be your ride or die snacks for your road trip this summer.

Our Favorite Snacks to Fuel Your Road Trip

Cruisin’ Candy

Candy is essential on any summer road trip. It can act as a quick pick-me-up when you’ve come a long way, but you still have miles to go. Or it can be a reward for the miles well traveled. Either way, it’s a great way to make the trip just a little bit sweeter. And when it comes to candy, we have it all (seriously, come see our candy aisle. It’s extensive), but we’ve rounded up some of our favorites. The best part? They’re all crafted locally!

Gig Harbor Candy Company Tiger Butter

If you haven’t tried Gig Harbor Candy Company’s Tiger Butter…run, don’t walk. A delectable mixture of vanilla, milk chocolate, and peanut butter, this candy is a melt-in-your-mouth treat you don’t want to miss. 

Cobb’s Naturally Naughty Peanut Butter Cups

A husband and wife team in Olympia, WA founded Cobb’s in 2013 out of their passion for delicious treats even someone with allergies can enjoy. Their peanut butter cup is dairy and gluten free and sourced responsibly, so you can fuel your road trip guilt free!

Tacoma Boys’ Dried Fruit 

Ok, not exactly candy. But for long hours in the car, maybe natural sugars are a better bet. From our bulk section check out dried kiwi slices, apricots, banana slices, papaya chunks, zante currants, raisins (regular and golden), coconut chips and more!

Savor It

While sugary treats are loads of fun, your savory sides will give you the balance you need to keep on trucking! These bite-sized salty snacks are the best for keeping the car clean and one hand on the wheel. 

Tacoma Boys’ Trail Mix

While you’re in our bulk section, take a look at our variety of trail mixes! With flavors like Simply Chocolate, Simply Kettle Sweet’n’Spicy, Tropical Paradise, and more, you’re sure to find a trail mix to your taste! We also have mixed nuts, cacao covered almonds, sliced, raw, and whole almonds–everything you need to mix and match your own trail mix just how you like it!

Beecher’s Flagship Cheese Crackers

If you’ve been to Pike’s Place Market, you’ve likely seen–and hopefully sampled–Beecher’s handmade cheese. Straight from the Seattle cheese maker you love,  Beecher’s Flagship Cheese Crackers will not disappoint. They melt Beecher’s Flagship cheese right into the cracker for a delicious crunch without hydrogenated oils. 

Hero Jerky Meat & Cheese Trail Mix 

Grab a pack of Hero Jerky Meat and Cheese Trail Mix for the perfect amount of protein to fuel your road trip! These packs have beef jerky, meat sticks, and colby jack cheese. All your favorites in one ideally portioned packet!

Car Cookies

There’s something exorbitant and extra fun about indulging in a car cookie. Great for in between rest stops and filling your belly, here are some of our favorite low-crumble cookies. 

Magic Flavors Vanilla Crescent Cookies

Magic Flavors is a local small business that specializes in bringing international flavors to the Pacific Northwest. Their take on Vanillekipferl (or German vanilla crescent cookies) are light and nutty and they melt in your mouth–perfect for car snacking! 

No Bake Cookies 

These no bake cookies from the No-Bake Cookie Co. are a delicious blast from the past! No-Bake Cookie Co is woman owned, and their cookies (all gluten free) are hand crafted in Bend, OR. Try them in Coconut Macadamia, Peanut Butter, or Chocolate!

PNW Cookies

PNW Cookie Company makes gluten free, soy free and vegan cookies right here in the PNW! Choose from Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate, Molasses, Oatmeal & Raisin, Peanut Butter, and Snickerdoodle and feel great about supporting local business while fueling your road trip!

Tacoma Boys: The Best Travel Buddy!

Wherever you go–whether it’s thirty minutes to Sunnyside Beach, or three days across the country–take Tacoma Boys with you! We’d be honored to fuel your road trip any way we can, so stop by today, say hi, and grab some car snacks before you hit the open road!

There are so many great things about camping, it’s nigh impossible to pick a favorite. But if we HAVE to choose the absolute best part? The food, of course! There are meals you can have in the great outdoors that simply aren’t the same anywhere else. And we’ve put together a lineup of meals you have to try this summer. We’re confident after trying one or two, you’ll be one happy camper!

When you think of the best camping trip you’ve ever had, what comes to mind? Snuggling up under a tarp with a warm cup of hot chocolate to wait out the rain? Finally opening up a steaming packet of tin foil to a mouthwatering dinner after waiting what felt like an eternity for the fire to cook it? Or maybe it’s the smell of burnt marshmallows when that almost perfect mallow accidentally slipped into the fire and you had to start over. If you’re anything like us, camping memories are made around the fire, usually while eating a meal. And while the joy of camping is often found in its simplicity, that doesn’t mean meals have to be boring or subpar! We’ve put together some of our favorite ways to have quality meals in the great outdoors. Some may already be in your repertoire of camping traditions, and we hope others are new to you and worth adding. Here we go!

Tacoma Boys Guide to Good Food in the Great Outdoors

Have It Your Way Overnight Oats

First things first, let’s talk breakfast. The thing about the first meal of the day in the great outdoors is if you want it warm, you’ll have to wait. Remember camping trips when mom and dad had hot chocolate and eggs waiting for you when you woke up? It’s because adults can’t sleep on the ground and they were up at the crack of dawn. Now you’re the adult, and if you want hot breakfast, you’ll have to make a fire for it yourself. So we have a great solution to keep you from getting hangry whilst you stoke the fire for your own children. Or your significant other. Or yourself. Overnight oats! Make this recipe for overnight oats from Parked in Paradise before you leave the house. Then, keep it chilled in the cooler overnight, and breakfast is already served! For your sweetener, check out our selection of locally sourced honey. We recommend Georgetown Pantry Supply Raw Honey. It’s 100% raw, unfiltered honey, sourced in the PNW (bonus: consuming local honey can help with allergies!). Then, peruse our produce section for the most delicious fresh berries. Finally, check out our dry goods for Tacoma Boys Coconut Chips, Dried Cranberries, or Zante Currants. Let each family member add whatever toppings their hearts desire, and they won’t even mind waiting for their morning coffee (or hot chocolate)!

Grown Up Foiled Chili Dogs

We find absolutely no fault with the classic hot dog roasted on a stick. But if you already have a few camping trips under your belt this season (read: you’ve had your fill of hot dogs with ketchup) or you simply want to mix things up a little, we’ve got just the twist you need. The best part? You can prepare the filling at home, so it’s less work and fewer dishes to clean. Which means more time enjoying the great outdoors! Start with eight chopped hot dogs (or brats). Want to amp it up? Opt for Mozzarella Smoked Bratwurst from our deli in lieu of traditional hot dogs. Then, chop one onion. Mix the hot dogs and onion into 8 ounces of chili. Finally, gut eight hot dog buns (as in, remove some of the fluff to make room for the filling). When you’re ready to cook them, lay each bun on its own sheet of tin foil. Then, fill the buns with the hot dog mixture and wrap tightly in foil. Cook for 20 minutes on a grill over the flames, or 15 minutes directly in hot coals. Adults and kids alike are sure to love this simple, warm meal with a grown up twist!

Fancy Shrimp Scampi Foil Packets 

Camping can be full of surprises, and not all good. Surprise your campmates in the best way by pulling out these Shrimp Scampi Foil Packets from Damn Delicious. Rule number one: when it comes to quality, don’t skimp on the shrimp! As always, you’ll find only the freshest, best quality shrimp in the PNW in our seafood section. If the only kind of seafood you’ve had while camping has been fish you caught earlier that day, you’ll be delighted by this recipe. And, you can prepare it ahead of time as well. Just keep your foil packets nice and cool in the cooler until you’re ready to enjoy. Then, place the packets in the fire and viola! Shrimp scampi alfresco! Eat it with crusty bread or on chips for a little extra crunch. 

Roasted Stuffed Bananas

When you think of traditional camping desserts, what comes to mind? S’mores! Us too. But apparently, there’s another camping tradition for some, and we’re here for it! The concept couldn’t be simpler. It’s like if a banana split and a s’more had a baby. Essentially, you slit a banana down the middle, add toppings, and wrap it in tinfoil. Then, let the fire make a delicious gooey mess of it. Glorious. For more detailed instructions and ideas for fillings, check out this recipe for Campfire Banana Boats by Fresh Off the Grid. Their advice is to include “something melty, something sweet, and something crunchy,” and we have it all. Check out our bulk selection for yogurt chips, cocoa covered almonds, trail mix and more! Or get melty, sweet and crunchy all in one with a Seattle Chocolate Company’s Triple Toffee Bar from our candy aisle. Seattle Chocolate Company is woman owned, responsibly sourced, and local. So you can feel great about supporting a fantastic small business while you enjoy arguably the best dessert you’ve ever had in the great outdoors (sorry, s’mores).

Let Us Feed Your Adventure!

There’s nothing like camping in the PNW, and there’s no one better to feed your adventure than Tacoma Boys. As always, we’re committed to offering you high quality ingredients to elevate your experience in the great outdoors. Stop by one of our locations today, and ask one of our friendly associates how we can help make this camping trip your best ever! 

Love the idea of a quaint picnic in the shade on a breezy summer day, but not sure how to make that dream a reality? Here’s a handy how-to guide to give you great ideas and help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of your perfect summer picnic!

For us, picnics come with the mental picture of a slow, warm summer day full of happy moments with loved ones spent on a red and white checkered blanket eating a delicious four course meal. What you don’t see are all the thoughtful preparations it took to get to that mental image, let alone a how-to guide for achieving it. So how do you keep your picnic from devolving into a puddle of unmet expectations? Let us help! While reality might never live up to the idealistic version in your head, picnics can be a blast! All it takes is little planning. We at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have compiled a simple list of tips and tricks to help make your summer picnic absolutely perfect. Or at least not a total disaster.

How to Make Your Summer Picnic (Almost) Perfect

1. Lower Your Expectations

This is the easiest and probably the most important step! Sometimes we miss the best moments in life because we’re too busy looking for “perfect.” Our suggestion? Let it go, and have some fun. Keeping your expectations loose and low will guarantee you have a great time, even if your blanket isn’t checkered (or is actually two towels you had in the car because you forgot the blanket), the ants move in, or the weather is terrible. If the point of the picnic is quality time and making memories with the people you love, a little rain won’t hurt (it could actually help!)

2. Keep It Simple

Speaking of reasonable expectations, it’s good to keep in mind there can be some complications when it comes to eating outdoors. Especially when you have to carry the meal TO the outdoors. Because of this, a picnic is not the time to overreach with your choice of fare. Your best bet is to keep it simple with the classics. At a loss? We have some ideas you can try:

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches

When was the last time you had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? No time like the present to give that blast from the past a try! But classic doesn’t mean boring. Quality ingredients will take your meal from thrown-together to alfresco gourmet. Consider checking out Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce’s vast array of local jellies and natural peanut butters for ideas. We recommend Maury Island Farms Red Raspberry Jam and Wild Friend’s Classic Creamy Peanut Butter (or Sunflower Butter if you’re working around a peanut allergy). Bonus: Wild Friend’s is female founded and based in the PNW! You’ll love biting into this childhood favorite with grown-up ingredients.

Charcuterie “Board”

When packing a picnic, it’s probably best to leave behind the actual board, but the idea is the same. Meat and cheese and crackers in any combination are perfect for picnics! Just slice, cube, and cut everything into bite sized pieces back at the house to save you from the struggle once it’s chow time. Then, toss everything in a reusable container and you’re on your way! Feel free to check out our cheese selection for new favorites, but you can’t go wrong with Beecher’s Flagship Cheese. And have you tried Hellenic Farms’ Fig Salami? Completely vegan, their Pistachio Pepper flavor is a must have for your perfect summer picnic. Additionally, Delreal Organic Medjool Dates from our produce are a great no-mess option for your picnic charcuterie. Pack some toothpicks and let everyone make their own mini kebabs!

3. Make sure it travels well.

There’s nothing quite so disappointing as opening your picnic basket to discover a mashed and mangled mess. To avoid this, be sure to include foods that can be packed easily into locking containers or that won’t be ruined if they get a little jostled. We recommend this recipe for Chicken Pesto Pasta by Damn Delicious. Just be sure to secure the tupperware lid! Or, make a dish sturdy enough to handle the ride in a Ziploc bag. For example, these Ham and Cheese Sandwiches with a gourmet twist from Delish. Again, quality ingredients are everything. For this recipe, in lieu of making your own honey mustard, try AJ’s All Natural Walla Walla Sweet Onion Mustard from our condiment section! AJ’s is local, and they source the majority of their ingredients right here in Washington state. And add Tacoma Boy’s Sweet Pickle Chips rather than plain old dill pickle slices. You can’t go wrong with either the Chicken Pesto Pasta or the Ham and Cheese Sandwiches. Both will look as great coming out of the basket as they did going in!

4. Have a little something on the side.

Now that you’ve figured out the main fare, it’s time to pack the bonuses! This is like stockings after the big presents are unwrapped. So, make it good! The easiest choice is fresh fruit. Peruse our produce aisle for the freshest fruit in the PNW. Look for great deals on local Rainier Cherries (Can you think of a more quintessential picnic food?) or our sweet and juicy plums (in season right now, and so delicious).  For another great healthy side option, try this recipe for Avocado Tomato Salad. Tacoma Boy’s Corn Relish would go great in this scrumptious side dish! Again, it doesn’t have to be fancy, just make it something you’ll be excited to pull out of your basket. 

5. Don’t forget dessert!

Nothing will make your perfect summer picnic complete like topping it off with a little something sweet! For a less messy take on strawberry shortcake, grab a Strawberry Log from Magic Flavors (a small business in Kent, Wa) from our refrigerated section. Enjoy as is, or top with additional strawberries and/or whipped cream. For a gluten-free homemade option, try Bob’s Red Mill Brownie Mix in our GF section. Or simply grab a package of Olivia Superfree Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes–also gluten free, and vegan! As you’re savoring the last morsels of your dessert, don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a moment that feels as good as you imagined it would. 

All In One Basket at Tacoma Boys

We’re confident your perfect (ish) summer picnic is just around the corner, and we would love to be part of it! You’ll find everything you know you need (and probably a few pleasant surprises) at your local Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce. From the basics to those specialty items that will keep your picnic fresh and unique, we’ve got you covered. Stop by today and fill your basket with high quality local products to make your summer picnic absolutely almost perfect!

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate the man in your life by cooking meat outdoors. Let us help make this year memorable with everything you need for a great Father’s Day barbecue. 

Summer is finally here, just in time to celebrate dad his way. Time to fire up the grill, marinade some meat and pop a cold one! Father’s Day is a great day to kick back, soak up some sun, and spend some quality time with dad. Make this Father’s Day great with mouthwatering meat, great sides, and perfect drink pairings. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have everything you need to make great food the best part of your dad’s day. From the main course to locally brewed beer and everything in between, we’re your one stop shop for the perfect Father’s Day barbecue. Not sure where to start? Check out these great ideas for perfectly paired meats, sides and beverages. 

4 Meaty Meals for Your Father’s Day Barbecue

1. Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs and Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon

Main Meat: Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Kebabs

A little sweet, a little savory, and every bit delicious, the whole family will love these hearty BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kebabs from Damn Delicious! Start by swinging by our butcher and grabbing our all natural boneless, skinless chicken breasts.Then, mix things up by seasoning your chicken with Tacoma Boys Honey BBQ Rub. Or use Tacoma Boys Spicy Asian Honey marinade in lieu of traditional Teriyaki sauce to add a little extra spice. Just the right balance of sticky and saucy, these Hawaiian-style kebabs have it all–meat, peppers, onions, and pineapple–all on one stick. They’re sure to go fast and become a Father’s Day favorite!

On the Side: Grilled Watermelon

While you’re in the business of throwing fruit on the grill, why not give watermelon a try? This recipe for Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon from The Stay at Home Chef turns a typically sweet summer fruit into a smoky, savory side dish. Gorgeous grill marks and a finish of sea salt and cilantro make this side perfect for your Father’s Day barbecue! 

Pair with: San Juan Island Brewing Co Outer Island IPA

2. Grilled Bone-In Pork Chops & Mexican Corn

Main Meat: Bone-In Pork Chops

Thesel Bone-In Pork Chops from The Kitchn couldn’t be simpler…or more delicious! Start with bone-in pork chops (always born, raised, and harvested in the USA) from our butcher. Don’t forget to brine your pork chops first to add flavor and help the meat retain moisture. Then, try Tacoma Boys Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Rub for a southern smokey flavor, or Tacoma Boys Kickin Maple Honey Rub for something on the sweeter side. Grill and enjoy!

On the Side: Mexican-Style Grilled Corn

Keep it simple with your pork chops, but add a little flair to your sides! Grilled to perfection, then slathered with a sour cream cilantro sauce, this recipe for Mexican Grilled Corn is packed with unique flavor. If you haven’t tried Mexican-style corn yet, now’s the time! Easy to make, and a sure crowd pleaser, this recipe will slay at your Father’s Day gathering.

Pair with: One Tree Stay-cation Hard Cider

3. Burgers, Brats, and Potato Salad

Main Meat: Burgers and Brats

Sometimes it’s best to stick with the classics. This Father’s Day, you can’t go wrong with good old fashioned burgers and brats. Let us do the hard part for you by choosing from our amazing premade gourmet hamburger patties. We have Applewood Bacon Cheddar Burgers, Jalapeno Pepper Jack Kobe Burgers, Lamb Burgers with Rosemary and Feta, Bleu Cheese Black Pepper Burgers and more! We also have Smoked Bratwurst, Chicago Beef Hot Dogs, and Hebrew National All Beef Franks if you’re looking for brats and hot dogs. Swing by our expert butcher and let us prove that tradition doesn’t have to be boring!

On the Side: Grilled Potato Salad with Charred Onions and Peppers

In keeping with a traditional theme, this recipe from Crumblog takes classic Potato Salad to the next level…on the grill! Everything but the vinaigrette is grilled, just be sure to chop your veggies in large enough pieces so they don’t fall through the grill. Follow the directions exactly, or add Tacoma Boys Garden Goodness Vegetable Seasoning to your vinaigrette for extra flavor. Your dad will love the familiar flavor of potato salad with the extra smokey taste of veggies on the grill!

Pair with: Silver City Brewing Panther City Porter

4. Kobe Zabuton Steaks and Grilled Vegetables 

Main Meat: Kobe Zabuton Gold Grade Steak

Also known as Denver cut steak, our Zabuton is a highly marbled cut, so it’s extremely soft and tender. Spoil your father (or the father-figure in your life) with this high quality cut of beef from Snake River Farm right here in the United States. It’s easy to grill, so keep it simple with Tacoma Boys Gourmet Olde Canadian Steakrub or Steakhouse Marinade, and let the meat speak for itself. 

On the Side: Balsamic Grilled Vegetables 

It’s impossible to upstage a steak as good as Kobe Zabuton, so the goal is a perfect complement. We think this recipe for Balsamic Grilled Vegetables by SweetPhi does just that. The secret to these veggies is the marinade, so make sure you give it plenty of time. With a blend of zucchini, mushrooms, and peppers, this side is packed with nutrition and mouth watering flavor that’s sure to make your Father’s Day barbecue one to remember!

What to Drink?

Airfield Estates “2017 Founders Michael” Red Wine

One Stop for A Complete Father’s Day Barbecue

Whether you’re spending this Father’s Day with your dad, grandpa, father of your children or a special father figure, we know you want to make his day. With only the best meats and high quality produce for your sides, as well as a slew of spices and marinades, we know you’ll find everything you need at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. So, stop by one of our locations this week, and ask one of our friendly store associates how we can help you make your Father’s Day barbecue a great one!