Bringing local producers and chefs together...
On Saturday, October 26th, we joined other producers and chefs from the Almaguin and Parry Sound regions at the Near North Enviro-Education Centre (NNEEC) for the first Taste of Almaguin farm-to-table event. Julia assisted with event organization and Santosha Farm veggies and fruit featured in several dishes, including some of our apples finding their way into Chef Nghe (Guy) Tran's (winner of Chopped Canada) famous sweet and sour soup.
While every chef and farm combination warranted a second visit, a highlight was students from Parry Sound High School (remember the name Hazel Joy Downey), preparing two knock-out soups (carrot soup with potato stuffing and parsnip apple!). It was exiciting to see what young chefs can bring to the table when given the venue. Kudos to Blair Cousins of the PSHS Hospitality and Culinary Program for fostering creativity and serious skills in the kitchen. The diverse range of ingredients, dishes and chefs kept the packed house entertained and very well feed. Many connections made and conversations already bubbling away about other opportunities to feature what the region has to offer.
Thank you to Romano Marchi, Executive Director of NNEEC for bringing everyone together.