A Fresh Start for the New Year: PatDaddys, Flavor, and the Return of the Kansas Grown Indoor Market

There’s something energizing about the start of a new year, especially when it comes with the return of the Kansas Grown! Indoor Market here in Wichita. While winter keeps most of us bundled up and indoors, the market gives us a place to still gather, support local makers, and stock up on incredible food without freezing in the process!

For us, Saturdays at Kansas Grown! have always been about more than just selling seasoning. They’re about conversations, community, and watching PatDaddy’s grow one handshake, one recipe, and one returning customer at a time. This year is especially meaningful as I step into a new role as a board member of Kansas Grown!, helping ensure this market continues to evolve and thrive for years to come.

If you haven’t made it out yet, the Kansas Grown! Indoor Market runs Saturdays from 8:00 AM to noon at 21st and Ridge, inside the 4-H building and it’s well worth the visit!

Why the Indoor Market Matters (Especially in Winter)

Winter doesn’t mean great food stops growing; it just means it shows up differently. Right now, the market is packed with:

• Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes

• Organic and pasture-raised meats

• Local artisan products you won’t find in big-box stores

  
  

And honestly? These colder months are when seasoning really shines. Roasting vegetables, slow-cooking meats, simmering sauces…this is comfort food season. This is where PatDaddy’s fits in naturally.

---

The Best Part of the Market? The Stories

One of my favorite things about being at the market is when customers come back—not just to restock, but to tell me what they made. I’ve heard it all:

• Family members “borrowing” a bottle of PatDaddy’s… and never giving it back

• Prime Reserve turning a simple pot roast into a Sunday tradition

• Someone discovering it works just as well on popcorn or buttered noodles as it does on steak

• My favorite… someone improving a dance of elation acting out their first bit of whatever delicious dish PatDaddy’s helped deliver

  
  

Those conversations are what built PatDaddy’s. They’re also what led to opportunities I never could’ve planned, from partnerships with Scheels, Ace Hardware, Maize Public Schools, to creating custom blends for restaurants like Kobe’s Japanese Steakhouse. Every one of those started with a relationship.

Looking Ahead

This blog is something new for PatDaddy’s. It’s long overdue, really. My goal is to use this space to share:

• Seasonal recipes

• Market stories

• Behind-the-scenes looks at how our blends and the experiences they bring

• And, to bring you in on our PatDaddy’s journey!

  
  

If you see me at the Kansas Grown Indoor Market, stop by and say hi. Tell me what you’ve been cooking. And if someone in your family “accidentally” walks off with your bottle of PatDaddy’s… I’ll consider that a compliment!

Embracing the Community Spirit

The Kansas Grown! Indoor Market is more than just a place to shop. It’s a hub of creativity and collaboration. Local artisans and farmers come together to showcase their goods. Each stall tells a story of hard work and dedication. When you support local, you’re not just buying products; you’re investing in the community.

The Importance of Local Ingredients

Using local ingredients not only supports our economy but also ensures freshness. When you choose local, you know where your food comes from. You can meet the farmers and makers behind your meals. This connection enriches the dining experience. It’s about knowing the journey of your food from farm to table.

Seasonal Changes at the Market

As the seasons change, so does the selection at the market. Spring brings vibrant greens and fresh herbs. Summer is bursting with juicy fruits and colorful vegetables. Fall introduces hearty squash and apples. Winter, while quieter, offers unique treasures like root vegetables and preserved goods. Each season brings its own flavor and excitement.

Engaging with Customers

At the market, every interaction matters. Engaging with customers creates a sense of belonging. It’s not just about selling; it’s about building relationships. Sharing stories and experiences fosters a community spirit. When customers feel valued, they return, bringing friends and family along.

The Future of Kansas Grown!

Looking ahead, the Kansas Grown! Indoor Market is poised for growth. With new vendors and innovative ideas, the market will continue to evolve. As a board member, I’m excited about the possibilities. Together, we can create an even more vibrant marketplace.

Here’s to a flavorful year ahead, right at the market.