July 2nd, 2013 • Posted by Jenny S. Gaintner • Permalink
local food, local farms, sustainable farming
What a wonderful night we had on June 25, 2013 for our first ever “Local Producers Dinner.” We started the evening sipping Champagne and nibbling on: Goat Cheese and Tomato Tartlets, Grilled Oysters with Summer Mignonette, and Deviled Eggs with Pickled Jalapeno. They were all amazing but the Eggs were my favorite, what a difference a fresh Springfield Farms egg can make. After a few words of welcome we began with our first course: Rabbit Terrine, “Water” Greens, Carrot Vinaigrette. Chef Thomas introduced us to Farmer Tom who shared some fun stories about his farm and the variety of products he provides to us. Chef Thomas explained how much fun he had coming up with this menu and how he even got to “play with his food” by adding a little molecular gastronomy to the plate. We were also introduced to the folks at Chesapeake Aquaponic whose beautiful hydroponically grown lettuces graced our plates.
As the night moved on, Kurt from JJ McDonnell helped us understand sustainable seafood practices while we enjoyed: Scallop and Pork Belly, Mustard Greens, Corn Essence. Then the gals from Pearlstone Retreat got the night’s biggest laugh with their comment: “This is the most non-kosher use of our product (delicious mustard greens) we have ever seen!” We were also introduced to Lynn from Ferguson Family Farm who reminded us that the nutritional value of local foods is important to our general health and reduction of harsh chemicals and hormones in our foods can prevent nasty things like cancer.
Our next course came with a little help from our friends at Liberty Delight Farms, who unfortunately were unable to attend, but the Grilled Skirt Steak, Roasted Spring Onion, Whipped Yukon Potatoes, Red Currant Jus was just amazing. The steak was tender and delicious and Farmer Tom gave us a helpful visual on where the different meat cuts came from. My favorite part of the dish was the tangy fresh currants from Pam at Rooster Hill Farms. Pam also provided us with beautiful flower arrangements from her garden, complete with an edible arrangement of herbs!
The evening came to a wonderful end with Cherry Clafoutis, Mascarpone Mousse, Pistachio “Dust” made by our one and only in house pastry Chef Renee. Believe me when I tell you that I will be lobbying hard for this to be a regular menu item.
The night was wonderful. We all walked away with a full belly, some new and some renewed friendships, and a sense of community that seems to be the greatest gift of all. Thank you to all who participated and keep your eyes open for the next event slated for August 13, 2013 where we will delve into local beer and BBQ offerings!
Cheers!
