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| - OTFM was a zoo today (in a good way). I've never seen it so packed with people, but it's refreshing to see that so many people are looking to buy local lately! I was lucky enough to get one of ten seats for the kick-off of The Farm Sessions... what a treat.
For those that don't know, The Farm Sessions will take place each week at the Farmers Market from now through the end of the season (May 29, 2010). Each Saturday, a local chef will demonstrate (to a group of ten people), as they shop the farmers market and prepare a dish using fresh ingredients. Viking is the main sponsor, and I believe the space itself is there thanks to the Chef's Loft as well. But The Farm Sessions' concept is thanks to Joe Garcia, who brought his vision to fruition - kudos for that!
Today's session was led by Chef James Porter of Petite Maision. He did an incredible job, keeping the session fun and interactive. I learned a ton and I scored one of the eco-friendly totes as well. Chef James made it look easy to create a gourmet meal of pork chop with salad and goat cheese and a fresh melon drizzled with honey and goat cheese for dessert.
Our group of foodies followed James around the market and found the ingredients from the following vendors:
-Made By Bees
-Triple V Farm
-Rhiba Farms
-On the Vine
-Seacat Gardens
-Queen Creek Olive Mill
-Pork on a Fork
While today was free since it was the first one, going forward, the cost will be $40 per ticket and participants will receive enough ingredients to prepare the same dish at home for two, a recipe card, shopping/resource list and a market shopping tote.
I am excited to see the line-up of chefs that are participating for future sessions - I am sure this will sell out each week, so plan on purchasing your tickets early! (You can do so on their website).
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