So the FSC food swap is over. It was a fun time. I've never been before and would definitely participate in one again.
Here's the basics of how it works:
You show up with your "goods" {I brought 2 Strawberry Shortcake Cakes, 3 jars of Strawberry-Chipotle BBQ Sauce and 2 bags of Homemade Hot Dog Buns}. You set them out on the table and fill out a card for each different type of item. The card includes your name, the name of the homemade item and a list of it's ingredients. You also put a name tag on so people can associate your products with you. Iced tea and sparkling water with berries were served at the sign-in table.
Once everyone is set up, the taste-testing begins. As you walk around trying samples you can take notes of items you really want.
Once everyone has had an opportunity to sample the items it's time for all to go around and fill your names out on any of the cards of the item's you are interested in. You write your name and what item(s) you would be interested in swapping for.
Once everyone has had ample time to write their names on as many cards that interest them, the swap begins. Even if someone's name wasn't on your card, you may be approached to see if you'd be willing to swap. You can also re-swap item(s) if you find something you're more interested in. Within minutes the swap is over.
What I learned - the smaller the better. Most packed their items as single or double servings. Canned goods were mostly 1/2 pint or pint. I would probably bring 6 items again, but all in the smaller size.
The types of items at this swap - hummus, flavored yogurts, homemade magic shell ice cream topping, salted caramel sauce, bean salad, beef stock, pie, granola bars, mustard, home brew, cheeses, jams, strawberry-rhubarb lemonade, granola, and lotion.
The one thing of mine that appeared to be a HUGE hit was the strawberry-chipotle BBQ sauce. I set out crackers to make it easier to sample.
I came home with wonderful goodies to try and had a great time sampling, chatting and swapping.
Strawberry-Chipotle BBQ Sauce
No cooking required to make this. It's as simple as measuring the ingredients, whisking them together, and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This sauce has the right amount of sweet, tang, and just a hint of the chipotle. It's really good. And another bonus, a great way to use up Strawberry Jam!
Recipe source: Adapted from a recipe by Tide and Thyme
1 1/2 c. ketchup
1/2 c. molasses
1/3 c. strawberry preserves
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
2 t. chipotle adobo sauce
2 T. dijon mustard
2 T. cider vinegar
3 T. honey
1/2 t. liquid smoke
salt and pepper to taste
Measure all ingredients into a medium bowl and whisk them together until combined. Taste for seasoning with salt and pepper. Store in a container in the refrigerator at least 8 hours and up to 3 weeks.