Rethinking Food Distribution

It seems as if all the serious food folks are celebrating local food these days. Not only are we on the brink of the prime produce season in MN, but anyone who cares about the food we put in our bodies can't help but notice that our food distribution is starting to really support local and sustainable growers with incredibly tasty results.

Growing up, I literally thought that food came from Byerly's, not a farm. I've taken up what I would call an obscene interest in both food production and preparation and it has really opened my eyes to the impact it has on our lives - if you are unfamiliar with how far the food system reaches, then you should check out Michael Pollan's books. To me, there is nothing more important than assuring that we are putting the most wholesome food possible into our bodies. No amount of exercise or healthy living can make up for a lifetime of eating modified crap, and that is why I choose to shop organic whenever possible. In addition, I choose to shop local because the food simply tastes better, is fresh and supports local farmers that produce amazing products.

If your shopping habits follow the same guidelines, then you have to be as giddy as I am right now. I can think of several points of food distribution that are right in front of me that I had no idea existed a year ago. I pass by a number of farmers markets and producers that sell directly to consumers every weekend on the way to the cabin. There is literally at least one major farmers market open everyday of the week in the metro area, and on the busier days there are several. If you haven't been to one lately, check it out. You'll be amazed at the variety of produce, meats, baked goods and other artisan foodstuffs. Not only can you purchase goods ready to eat, but now you can purchase wholesome organics to grow on your own. In combination with a strong CSA system, you can have local foods delivered to your door, or grown in your backyard. Even the Arboretum (they sell U of M cheeses, meats and their own vegetables at the summer house) and Tangletown Gardens will sell you something local and delicious.

For anyone who believes it is difficult or expensive to eat and shop local, then all you have to do is open your eyes. Local food is quite literally all around us and if you hit the markets and Co-ops (I love Linden Hills) in the peak season it is beyond affordable as well. We are really lucky to have such a great local food distribution network in place. Now is the time to take advantage. And don't forget to stretch the season - can fresh tomatoes or make and freeze your own sauces. A frozen homemade tomato sauce made from delicious in-season heirlooms will taste worlds better and be less expensive than anything you get from a jar, or worse - has been flown in from Chile in January. The time to embrace our awesome food system is now!

Happy Eating,

-Teddy

Dinning Deals in SW

So maybe the economy isn’t shifting as quickly as we would have liked under the new administration, but at least we still have a ton of great dining deals around town to help keep us satiated. A few of some of my favorite neighborhood spots are still offering some killer deals and although this list is by no means exhaustive, I feel that it gives you a great opportunity to enjoy the flavors of SW Minneapolis without breaking the bank. I’d also encourage you to visit the restaurant’s website or call ahead to make sure the dinning deal is accurate.

Prima, located over in Tangletown near the intersection of Diamond Lake Road and Lyndale Ave. is a casual Italian eatery that has some really nice antipasti, pasta, salads and a range on entrees including chops, chicken and seafood. I also am a huge fan of their Panini al Bistecca – think really thin rare roast beef with brie and caramelized onions. It’s a great place to stop after a busy day to enjoy some nice food in a casual setting – especially when you don’t have hours to spend over a long meal (I know, what a shame!).

Their killer dining deal is a prix fixe menu for two and includes half a carafe of their wine of the week, salad, pasta and dessert all for the low price of $28. Their offer is good after 8 p.m. Sun-TR and after 8:30 Fri and Sat. Kids also eat free on Monday nights (one free kids meal per adult entree).

Café Maude – Located near 54^th and Penn in the heart of SW is one of my favorite neighborhood spots. They serve creative Mediterranean creations including a lamb and saffron skewer (one of my favorite small plates), a nicoise olive and chicken flatbread and a really nice roasted half chicken with Moroccan spices and apricot to name a few. There’s a little something for everyone with their menu including small plates, sides, salads,cheese, a la carte offerings and big plates – the grilled pork tenderloin sounds awesome!

Their deal is available Sunday and Monday nights and features a three course prix fixe dinner that includes a glass of wine. A nice neighborhood setting, good food and vino is more then I could ever want for a mere $25. Café Maude is usually pretty jammed, so I’d call ahead for sure.

Broders’ – OK, I’m in love with the place. The setting is awesome, especially with their new outdoor antipasto bar and the food is top shelf all the way down the menu. The pastas are all hand made and the sauces are crafted with care and an amazing attention to detail. The variety on the menu is pretty stunning for a pasta bar.

Their deal includes a choice of 2 pastas (you have to choose from a limited menu, but there are quite a few choices including a bolognese, puttanesca and carbonara to name a few). You will also receive and olive assortment and a seasonal salad for two on top of a half bottle of a selected Italian red or white – all for just $28. This special runs Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Last, but not least, I have to include the half price bottle of wine nights at Cave Vin. It’s just right around the corner from my place and there are few places in the city where I have experienced such consistently awesome food and service.

They run the half price bottle special on Monday and Tuesday nights and their wine list has a nice selection to pair with their delicious rack of lamb and always-outstanding pork tenderloin. If nothing else you have to make your way in just to try the Mussels!

Happy Frugal Eating,

-Teddy