Here's what's cooking around town today...
I've been ranting for years about how the eco-footprint of a product can't and shouldn't be taken into consideration when choosing local foods because local isn't always the more environmentally friendly choice. And while this piece is a bit incoherent in terms of its message, the study it discusses does prove the point. We're seeing lots of examples of products (both New Zealand lamb and apples, for instance) that are more eco-friendly than local, but buying local does far more to support the communities in which we live. Can we please... PLEASE... get out from under the guilt of having to be constantly vigilant and enviro-conscious and comparing every single thing we put into our mouths in terms of how eco-friendly it is? [Globe and Mail]
Think it's tough to eat meals that are both healthy and cheap? The folks at Well Preserved are starting a weekly recipe column where they intend to prove that theory wrong. [Well Preserved]
The rumours are true - Chef Lynn Crawford has purchased Citizen from Chef Rod Bowers with plans to re-open it in the spring. [Toronto Star]
I usually harsh on the world's obsession with bacon, but I am intrigued to try a vegan eggplant version of the stuff. [Vegan Cookbook Critic]
Worried that you'll have to do your grocery shopping at (ew!) supermarkets? Fear not - there are still seven farmers' markets that will remain open all winter. No guarantee on how local any of the products will be though. [Toronto Life: Daily Dish]
Homebrewers are producing beers as good - or better - than many mainstream breweries. [Toronto Star]
From the "almost everything is edible" file - crabapple jelly is one of the best rewards of the foraging harvest. [Not Far From the Tree]
Sheryl,
If you ever want to give it a taste just let me know!