By Dominique Tassell
There’s plenty of wonderful local produce available at the Granite Belt Markets, with more than just veggies on offer.
Aaron Cox from Cypress Ridge says they’re at the markets every weekend, and generally have their Caramelised Garlic Balsamic, Caramelised Black Garlic, and Australian Crushed Garlic available.
Aaron says the Caramelised Garlic Balsamic is an “excellent salad dressing”, while he recommends the Caramelised Black Garlic be paired with cheese.
Their Crushed Garlic can be used more sparingly than other crushed garlic, as it doesn’t contain any filler ingredients like onion or shallot.
Cypress Ridge is a property with a garlic farm and holiday cottages located on it.
It’s a whole-family operation, operated by Aaron and Bindi Cox, their children Oscar and Chloe, and Aaron’s parents Chris and Carole.
The property has seen a lot of different produce grown over the years, starting out as a stonefruit orchard back in the 60s.
The Cox family purchased the farm in 2008 and at that time it grew hydroponic parsley. In 2010, they planted Garlic.
While it was Carole who first suggested pickling their garlic, former-chef Aaron got creative in the kitchen and worked on their Caramelised Garlic Balsamic.
The Caramelised Black Garlic reportedly came from an idea, a pie warmer, and a few bulbs of garlic.
The Caramelised Black Garlic is more subtle and sweeter than normal garlic and adds depth to any recipe you include it in.
This range is made by a family passionate about food, about living humbly, and yet with high expectations of what they do while taking care of their surroundings.
You can also find Cypress Ridge products at Sam’s Fruit Shop, Brinx Deli, Ballandean Estate, Stanthorpe Cheese, and Jamworks.
