In this week’s episode of Mama Baba Ganoush, I head down to one of Doha’s farmer’s markets – Al-Mazrouah Yard.

I love visiting local markets and Al-Mazrouah Yard, located just past IKEA in Umm Salal, offers an abundance of fresh produce — all grown in Qatar! You’ll find boxes of juicy, ripe tomatoes, purple eggplant, and big bunches of fresh herbs at very affordable prices.

Most vendors sell by the box but you may be able to haggle the odd piece. There’s a little garden centre that sells all types of plants and gardening tools, a small fish market, and a flower stall that offers locally grown lilies and carnations at bargain prices. Be sure to also check out the little café which features delicious homemade Qatari snacks, meals, teas and coffees.

So what are the benefits of buying local produce rather than from the supermarket? Generally local produce is cheaper, fresher, and better quality. Plus as an added bonus the negative impact of the environment is reduced — no carbon emissions from international transportation, and on top of that you’ll be supporting local businesses too. It’s a win-win situation!

The harvest season in Qatar is usually from October to April, but you still have time to check out Al-Mazrouah Yard. Open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays it’s a great morning venture out to stock up on your weekly shopping of fresh veggies and fruit so you still have time before it closes for the season. Buy local and you’ll be supporting your local farming community and saving your hard earned cash!

Have you been to Al-Mazrouah Yard or any of the other farmer’s markets in Qatar? Please let me know and maybe one day I’ll visit there too!

About Al Mazrouah Yard

Umm Salal (near Umm Salal Stadium)
Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
www.facebook.com/Al-Mazrouah-Yard
Map - https://goo.gl/LHX6Qt

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AngelPolacco

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