Created by the Chefs of Le Cordon Bleu
What is Slow Food? To quote directly from Slow Food USA, “Slow Food USA envisions a world in which all people can eat food that is good for them, good for the people who grow it and good for the planet. In essence, food that is good, clean and fair.”
In the world of “Going Green”, I am doing my part by learning about and being inolved in this cause. Lead by the dynamic Donna Reno, the Slow Food Miami group has had many fabulous events in the past year including one last night at The Standard Hotel in Miami Beach. We feasted on Navajo Churro Lamb, cooked 3 ways and a variety of other Mediterranean delights prepared by Chef Mark Zetouni.
In September, 25 Chefs from Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School prepared a brunch at Fairchild Tropical Garden highlighting tropical fruits and organic eggs. Each chef created a unique centerpiece of carved watermelon in shapes of birds, fishes and flowers. (See the photo above).
“King Corn”, the May event was staged at the Wolfsonian Museum in Miami Beach. “King Corn”, the documentary was shown and gave an awareness of how farmers are subsidized by the government to produce corn to create non-healthy bi-products of corn and not encouraged or subsidized to grow good, clean corn. We feasted on what else? a delightful corn chowder and other deicious fresh foods. Learn more about this fascinating documentary at www.kingcorn.net .
The spring event was hosted at the private South Miami acre home of Hunter Reno and Peter Rabbino. I learned about urban “square” gardening, chicken coops and our local marine life! We tasted many regional and authentic flavors from our Bahamian and Caribbean pioneers including Blue Crab Chowder, Conch Salad and Pigeon Peas and Rice. I acquired a walled-sized “Safe Seafood” chart with recommendations on the best fish and seafood to choose that will help sustain our environment. It has become a serious reference for me when ordering out and grocery purchasing. Get your copy by here or at coopamerica.org. Sorry, Chilean Sea Bass and most “farm raised” seafoods are NOT the choices on the preferred list! This event benefited the Pre-K School Garden Program of Slow Food Miami. For more information and membership, go to www.slowfoodmiami.com or www.slowfoodusa.org.
And, for you wine enthusiasts, Slow Food Miami has organized some of the finest vineyards and suppliers to donate superb wines, specially paired with the culinary delights and enjoyed by all who attend the events.
My vote for the BEST Slow Food Miami Event I have been fortunate enough to attend so far: Informational: A tie, Gastronomical & Decor: Fairchild with Le Cordon Bleu; Warmth & Hospitality: Reno/Rabbino Seafood Event; Educational: “King Corn” at the Wolfsonian; Great Company & Ambiance: Churro Lamb at The Standard!
Yummy Thanks to Mary Pennell, my good friend and colleague at EWM Realtors Coconut Grove, for introducing me to Slow Food!