Reviewed by Simone
I have been very much inspired by Janet Fletcher since I discovered the fantastic classic cookbook Pasta Harvest. In this older title, which is now sadly out of print, Fletcher took the the approach of choosing your vegetable first, and then making the pasta based on your choice. It has completely changed my attitude towards food.
I was very eager to find out what the focus of her new book would be. It turned out to be local farming. In Eating Local Fletcher promotes the use of locally grown vegetables and fruit over the foreign imports which have often been transported over huge distances in order to provide us with food out of season. As an alternative to this sort of waste, local farms can be supported by the community with a special investment system.
The book illustrates the concept of local farming with portraits of ten farms. The focus is on supplying the local communities with fresh and good produce. Some farms also stimulate the gathering of people on their farm, to educate, and to secure the farmer’s position in the community.
Besides this excellent concept and the great photography by Sara Remington, there are of course the delicious recipes as well. In this appealing hardback edition you will find dishes organized by vegetable or fruit. To name just some of the very diverse recipes, there’s:
Green Garlic Souffle- Pita Sandwich with Grilled Zucchini and Red Pepper Hummus
- Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette
- Lamb Burgers with Grilled Red Onions and Feta
- Warm Cherry Upside-down Cake
- Grilled Prune Plums with Anise Ice Cream
All in all, this book is a true inspiration. As well as lovely recipes, the photographs of the farmers and the fruits and vegetables show how pure and unique locally sourced produce can be!
A note for all customers who live in or near The Hague: every Wednesday you will find the Farmers Market on the Hofplaats near our store!
