Cultivating a Strong Food System with Monica Petrella

In this inspiring episode, Ginain Grayes welcomes Monica Petrella, a passionate advocate for local food systems and Food System Program Coordinator for Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems. They dive into the importance of community gardening, the benefits of homegrown produce, and how individuals can contribute to a sustainable food system.

Key Topics Discussed

• Monica's Urban Gardening Journey: Transitioning from believing she couldn't garden due to space limitations to thriving in balcony gardening with the help of EarthBox systems.
• Benefits of Urban Gardening: Monica highlights the sustainability, accessibility, and health benefits of growing one's own food, even in limited spaces.
• Introduction to Homegrown Hillsborough: Monica discusses the role and mission of Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems and encouraging community gardening efforts.
• Food Insecurity in Hillsborough County: The discussion delves into the issue of food insecurity, its impact on communities, and how local efforts can make a significant difference.
• Getting Involved with Local Food Systems: Monica offers insights on how individuals can support and engage with their local food systems, emphasizing the importance of community participation and education.
• Recipe Share: Monica shares a simple yet delicious recipe for cherry tomato bruschetta, showcasing how to use homegrown produce to create healthy, flavorful meals.

Resources and Links

• Homegrown Hillsborough: Learn more about their initiatives and how you can get involved in supporting your local food system. Homegrown Hillsborough - Hillsborough County - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS (ufl.edu)
• Take the Residential Food System Survey
• UF/IFAS Extension: Discover classes, workshops, and resources offered by the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension service. UF/IFAS Extension Website
• EarthBox website: Planting Boxes | Container Gardening | EarthBox
• Recipe for Cherry Tomato Bruschetta: Dive into Monica's easy recipe, perfect for making use of your garden's bounty.

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

8 roma tomatoes, diced

⅓ cup chopped fresh basil

1 ounce Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

¼ tsp kosher salt

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Gather all ingredients
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
3. Brush bread slices on both sides lightly with 1 tbsp oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 5 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Toss together tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Mix in balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper.
6. Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread slices.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Links & Contact Info:

Join our NEW Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/COOKTHEGARDEN

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topic Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

Happy New Year, Garden Foodies! In this episode, Ginain shares her holiday experience and emphasizes the importance of planning for the year, especially when it comes to kitchen and garden adventures. From trying new recipes to adopting sustainable practices, this episode is all about setting and achieving your kitchen garden goals for 2024.

1. Expanding Growing Space
   • Ginain revisits her plan to expand her garden space
2. Trying New Plants
3. Implementing Sustainable Practices
   • Water conservation strategies, including using a rain barrel.
   • Pros and cons of rainwater collection.
   • Continued focus on sustainable kitchen practices and reducing waste.
4. Educating and Involving Others
   • Involvement in Homegrown Hillsborough, a community initiative.
   • Future plans for local food system education and engagement.

Special Segment: Annual Smoothie Challenge

• Announcement of the annual Smoothie Challenge with new detoxifying recipes.
• Availability of a free guide with recipes and tips on 
  CookPraySlay
• Or you can sign up here 
• Reminder to consult healthcare providers before starting new diet changes.

• Share your kitchen garden goals for the new year with Ginain!
• Look forward to bonus episodes and the new season of Cook The Garden.
• Encourage sharing the podcast with friends and family.

Links and Resources

Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cookthegardengroup/

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

In this episode, we sit down with Tulani Thomas, a passionate advocate for sustainability and environmental care, to discuss the impact of our everyday choices in the kitchen on the planet. We explore practical ways to use kitchen scraps and dive into the importance of sustainability in our daily lives.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Importance of Sustainability: Understanding its impact on our lives and the planet.
2. Creative Uses of Kitchen Scraps: Practical tips for reducing waste.
3. Personal Sustainability Journeys: Tulani shares her experiences and motivations.
4. Tips for Starting Your Sustainability Journey: Simple steps everyone can take.
5. Tulani’s Collard Greens Egg Roll Recipe: So delicious:[
   Air Fryer Egg Roll Recipe with Collard Greens

Connect with Tulani Thomas:

• Twitter: @TuTusGreenWorld
   
• Instagram: @tutusgreenworld
   
• LinkedIn:Tulani Thomas 
• www.tutusgreenworld.com

Episode Highlights:

• Quote from Tulani: "Sustainability is not just a concept; it's a lifestyle that we can all embrace in small, meaningful ways."
• Questions about composting basics, containers and eco-friendly containers? Visit www.tutusgreenworld.com

Cook The Garden Resources:

Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cookthegardengroup/

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

Show Notes: Plant-Based Holiday Feast with Amy Katz

Today we’re talking to vegan food blogger, Amy Katz - a returning guest who's no stranger to our podcast! Listen to hat episode here:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/incorporating-more-plant-based-meals-into-your-diet/id1642443203?i=1000609459779

Gardening Chit-Chat: Amy shares her recent gardening updates, focusing on the growth of citrus, particularly her kumquat tree. Ginain discusses her kumquat tree and plans to for her harvest.

Adapting Traditional Dishes: Amy and Ginain discuss the possibility of adapting traditional holiday dishes to suit different dietary preferences.

Alternative Holiday Centerpieces: Amy mentions the availability of various plant-based turkey alternatives in the market but advises that creating a variety of side dishes is a great way to cater to different tastes without the need for a meat substitute.

Herbs and Seasonings: They highlight the significance of using fresh or dried herbs and seasonings in plant-based recipes, adding flavor to dishes. Sumac is recommended as a flavorful seasoning, particularly in roasted vegetables, to achieve a delightful citrusy note.

Amy’s Scrappy Kitchen Tip: Amy's utilizes kitchen scraps by incorporating them into soups, making creative and waste-reducing dishes.

Show Links:

Amy’s Recipe:

Sauteed Green Beans with Mushrooms - Veggies Save The Day

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Resources mentioned in this episode:

Amy's website, Veggies Save The Day: 

Vegan Recipes Inspired by a Mediterranean Diet

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Join our Facebook Group: 

Cook The Garden - Recipes & Garden Tips | Facebook

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

Ginain kicks off a special mini-series within Cook The Garden called "Scrappy Kitchen," focusing on sustainability and creativity with kitchen scraps. As autumn's chill fills the air, Ginain is eager to infuse homes with inviting scents, even in her Florida location that lacks a traditional fall experience.

Ginain shares a personal story about using leftover pineapple scraps to create a tropical twist in her simmer pot, emphasizing the value of sustainability and kitchen creativity. 

In this episode, Ginain explores the reasons for crafting DIY fall simmer pots:

• Natural scents vs. artificial fragrances in store-bought air fresheners.
• Cost-effectiveness and use of readily available kitchen ingredients.
• Customizability to match personal scent preferences.
• The cozy atmosphere created by simmer pots.

Listeners learn about the essential ingredients needed for making fall simmer pots, such as a large pot, water, kitchen scraps, and a stovetop or heating source.

Ginain shares a variety of delightful fall simmer pot combinations, each with detailed descriptions of ingredients. This offers listeners a range of ideas for creating seasonal aromas.

The episode provides step-by-step instructions on creating a fall simmer pot, including maintaining the water level, ensuring safe simmering, and tips for storing and reusing simmer pots.

In the spirit of community engagement, Ginain encourages listeners to share their favorite simmer pot recipes and creative kitchen scrap ideas. She invites them to join the Cook The Garden Community on Facebook and Instagram.

Latest blog post for specific recipes and seasonal aromas: Scrappy Kitchen: Turn Kitchen Scraps into Cozy Simmer Pots (cookprayslay.com)

Cook The Garden Resources:

Cook the Garden Resources:

Join our NEW Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cookthegardengroup/

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

If you have a deep-rooted love for garden-to-glass drinks and cocktails, today's episode is an absolute must-listen!  We're thrilled to introduce the one and only Camille Wilson, the mastermind behind The Cocktail Snob and the ultimate cocktail connoisseur. 

Based in the vibrant heart of New York City, Camille has been shaking up the cocktail scene with her captivating creations and making happy hours at home an art form.  Since kick-starting her blog in 2018, she's teamed up with acclaimed brands like Woodford Reserve, Perrier, and HBO Max, all while sharing her signature blend of elevated yet approachable mixology. 

It's just Ginain today, and it's been a while since she's given you all an update on her garden, which has seen better days, but she's excited to share her journey with you! 

In this episode, we dive into:

1. The State of Ginain's Garden: Find out how Ginain's garden fared during the scorching Florida summer. From abundant okra harvests to not-so-great tomatoes.

2. Embracing Life's Curveballs: Life and work have been a whirlwind, leading to some garden neglect. Setbacks happen to us all, and it's okay. It's all part of the journey.

3. Fall Garden Plans: Ginain shares her plans for the upcoming Fall and Winter garden.

4. Words of Encouragement: For all those struggling with their gardens, Ginain offers some encouraging words. Remember, it's about the journey, not just the destination. Every step forward is a victory!

5. Introducing "Scrappy Kitchen Series:" Ginain's excited to announce our new series, "Scrappy Kitchen," focused on sustainability and reducing waste. What's your favorite No-Waste cooking, gardening or kitchen hack? Let Ginain know on social media or email info@cookprayslay.com

GUMBO RECIPE: 

New Year's Gumbo (cookprayslay.com)

CTG Resources:

Join our NEW Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cookthegardengroup/

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

In this episode, Ginain is joined by the incredible David Crowley to discover the delicious ingredients you can find in Fall and Winter CSA boxes. David shares expert tips on meal planning with seasonal items from CSA boxes, helping you create culinary masterpieces even from the most mysterious vegetables. We'll also explore how to find the perfect CSA service for your needs and uncover the health and economic benefits of Community Supported Agriculture. Plus, don't miss David's mouthwatering recipe for Creamy Roasted Acorn Squash Pasta!

• Evolving Contents of CSA Boxes
  • David discusses how the contents of CSA boxes change as we transition from summer to fall and then into winter.
  • Highlights typical vegetables and produce items people can expect in Fall and Winter CSA boxes.
• Meal Planning with Seasonal Produce
  • David & Ginain share tips on how to plan meals with the seasonal items from CSA boxes.
  • Offers creative strategies for making the most of unfamiliar ingredients.
• Finding the Perfect CSA
  • David provides insights on how to find the right CSA service for your needs.
  • Discusses the importance of connecting with local farmers and the origins of your produce.
• Health and Economic Benefits of CSA
  • Explores the benefits of eating seasonally, not only for individuals but also for the environment and local economies.
  • David highlights the positive impact of supporting local agriculture.
• David's Creamy Roasted Acorn Squash Pasta Recipe
  • David generously shares his delicious recipe for Creamy Roasted Acorn Squash Pasta.
  • Ginain and David discuss variations and serving suggestions.

Connect with David Crowley:

Cooking Chat

Instagram (@cookingchatwine)

 and threads @cookingchatwine

Instagram (@cooklocaleatlocal)

cookingchat

YouTube @CookingChat

CTG Resources:

Join our NEW Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cookthegardengroup/

Connect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cookthegarden

Visit the Food Blog: www.cookprayslay.com

Email with Feedback and Topics Requests: info@cookprayslay.com

Hey garden foodies! Welcome to a fresh, new season of Cook the Garden podcast! We're kicking things off with a fantastic episode featuring two remarkable guests: Bita Arabian and Beata Nazem Kelley. They're the dynamic co-hosts of the Modern Persian Food Podcast and passionate food bloggers, bringing a unique and modern twist to Persian cuisine.

In today's episode, we embark on a flavorful journey into the heart of Persian cooking. Get ready to discover how Bita and Beata work their culinary magic with fresh herbs, infusing traditional Persian dishes with a burst of vibrant flavors and aromas.

Fresh Herbs and Persian Cuisine

Fresh herbs have long been the unsung heroes of Persian cuisine, and our guests are experts in showcasing their power. Bita and Beata will share their insights on how these aromatic greens play an essential role in elevating Persian dishes to a whole new level. From mint to cilantro to tarragon, we'll uncover the secrets behind their use and the unique touch they bring to Persian culinary traditions.

A Delicious Recipe to Try

Bita and Beata share a traditional Persian noodle bean soup recipe called Aash Reshteh. It's been personally tried and tested, earning rave reviews from my family! See links below for recipes!

Connect with Bita and Beata

If you're as captivated by Bita and Beata's passion for Persian cuisine as we are, be sure to connect with them- all the links are listed below. You'll find their podcast, blogs, and more, ensuring you can continue exploring Modern Persian Food.

Recipes:

Asheh Reshteh

Beata has two from her site, Beats Eats for this soup:

https://beatseats.com/asheh-reshteh-persian-noodle-soup/

Asheh Reshteh – Persian Noodle Soup – Original Recipe Post

Bita has one from her recipe site, Oven Hug:

Aash Reshteh | Persian Noodle Soup

Sabzi Khordan

Sabzi Khordan | Persian Herb Appetizer

Check out this episode dedicated to Sabzi Khordan on the Modern Persian Food podcast as well,

Episode 42: Sabzi Khordan

Check out their podcast:

Modern Persian Food 

IG: @modernpersianfood

Youtube: Modern Persian Food podcast

TikTok: modernpersianfood

LinkedIn: Modern Persian Food