By Carly Hall
Every year on Labor Day weekend, local farmers and small business owners bring their talent and treats to downtown Hendersonville Main Street so people from all over can have a taste. From spiced apple slushies to fried apple pies, you will not be disappointed no matter what you decide to try. Tasting all the different ways you could bake an apple was truly a delightful experience and so much fun. I tried five different foods and none of them were a disappointment, however, I had my favorites.
To start the day, I ordered a spiced apple slushy from McConnel Farms Inc. On such a hot day, this icy drink was super refreshing and a delicious way to cool off. There was slightly too much spice for me which made it a little hard to finish the entire drink but gave me a boost for the rest of the day.
After cruising the excited street the sweet smell of caramel began to fill the air, so I knew next up on the menu would have to be caramel apple slices from Rock Ridge Farm. You simply pick out what kind of apple you would like and watch as they slice it and smother it in golden, gooey caramel. But beware you will need a sanitizer wipe because these can get messy. The tart, crunchy apples paired so well with the soft, sweetness of the caramel, and were worth the sticky hands.
After that tasty snack and a little more shopping, something savory would hit the spot. Luckily Stepps Hillcrest Orchard had a big bag of kettle corn ready to go. Each piece had the perfect amount of crunch and tamed your taste buds with a super simple sweet and savory flavor. I munched on the popcorn for the rest of the day.
Just as we thought we had seen everything, a line backed up down the street caught our attention and we realized it was coming from Circle L. Farm. We knew we had to have the baked apple turnovers and the best seller, fried apple pie. Both the fried and baked apple pies were hot and fresh out of the oven, each drizzled with the sweetest frosting you will ever have. The baked apple turnover was my favorite food of the day. The breading was flakey, golden brown with gooey apple filling that made memories of fall come flooding in. The simplicity of the breading paired with the icing on top creates the perfect balance of sweetness. Each bite left you wanting one more. The fried apple pie is their best seller and rightfully so. This handheld treat has a super crispy exterior that meshes with the soft apples on the inside, creating a combination that you will feel you’ve been missing out on your whole life.
I had such an amazing day trying all the apple festival food and would recommend everyone to visit and try all the mouthwatering dishes local farmers bring for us to enjoy and admire.
