What is in season in Louisville. and what to order when the market changes.
Spring
- Asparagus: Local Kentucky asparagus appears at the Bardstown Road Farmers Market through April and May.
- Morel mushrooms: Foraged Kentucky morels show up in chef menus and at the farmers markets through April and May.
- Country ham: Spring is country ham season for Derby parties; Kentucky cured hams turn up on every Hot Brown menu.
Summer
- Derby tomatoes: Heirloom Kentucky tomatoes peak from late June through August on every farm-table menu in Louisville.
- Sweet corn: Kentucky sweet corn appears at farmers markets from July through September across Louisville.
- Burgoo: The Kentucky-style summer stew of mutton, vegetables and corn appears at festivals through July and August.
Autumn
- Sorghum syrup: Kentucky sorghum is harvested in September and October, drizzled on biscuits at Louisville brunch counters.
- Apple cider: Local cider appears in cocktails and at farmers markets through October across the Louisville area.
- Sweet potatoes: Kentucky sweet potatoes anchor fall menus from October through November across Louisville kitchens.
Winter
- Country ham (Christmas): December and January are peak country ham months for Louisville holiday parties and family suppers.
- Hot Brown season: Winter is peak Hot Brown season, with the broiled sandwich anchoring lunch and late dinner menus in Louisville.
- Bourbon balls: Hand-rolled bourbon balls at Muth's and Cellar Door Chocolates peak from Thanksgiving through Derby.