Local Food in Sun Valley

Local food is a term we use often.  It is one of the guiding principals of Rasberrys Catering & Bistro.  The definition is the movement which aims to connect food producers and food consumers in the same geographic region; in order to develop more self-reliant and resilient food networks, improve local economies, or for health, environmental, community, or social impact in a particular place.

We are pleased to share our partners in the local food movement.  We are adding more to this list everyday.  Please eat and buy local, whenever possible! 

Idaho's Bounty & all participating Farmers, 5B Hives, Bonnie Salmon & Steve Newton, Bread Werks, CA Bull Elk Ranch, Chocolate Moose, Ketchum Farmers Market, MM Heath Farms, Inc., Montana Meat Co., Mountain Fresh, Mountain Pride, NourishMe, Old Almo Creamery, Purple Sage Farms, Reliable Produce, Springs of Life, Sustainability Center--Al McCord, Vogel Farms, Waterwheel Gardens

The Onion Family

Onions are an everyday basic in any kitchen.  Shallots, scallions and leeks also have their place.  While the family includes almost 500 species, including wild, just a few are easily found.  Bon Appetit, one of our favorite magazines, reviewed 8 members of the onion family.  Here are a few suggested uses:  

white onions - an especially sharp variety that's best chopped or sliced raw into salads, stews and pico de gallo

red onions - usually used raw or pickled for a pop of flavor and color.  But, when you slow-roast them, they taste like candy

shallots - super versatile! Chop into marinades; slice thin and shallow-fry for salads; or roast whole with skins for an easy side

scallions - slice on a bias to finish noodles with something fresh, or toss into slaw.  They're also great charred whole on the grill.

leeks - delicate flavors come out when slowly cooked.  Remove thick green leaves and slice white and pale-green parts into a gratin.

green garlic - available in spring, it's less intense than grown-up garlic.  Stir into soft-scrambled eggs or sauteed veg to take its edge off.

spring onions - A young allium with a tiny bulb and a tender stalk.  Slice paper-thin and enjoy raw, or quarter and caramelize in the oven.

ramps - technically a wild leek.  Roast or grill to bring out fragrant garlic notes, then serve with ricotta as a luxe toast topper.  

Spring Cleaning: All Purpose Spray

There is no need to pull out your rubber gloves and surgical masks when you clean your home. It might surprise you to know that you can concoct simple and inexpensive non-toxic cleaners from ingredients already lying around your house. Using essential oils to create your own cleaning spray is not only safe on the environment,  but is safe for your family as well. This spray is perfect for cleaning hard surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, etc. 

What You Need: 

16 oz. glass spray bottle

1/4 c. white vinegar

1 3/4 c. water

30 drops essential oil

1 tsp. borax

Recommended Essential Oils:

15 drops each of lavender and lemon

10 drops of each eucalyptus, peppermint and wild orange

15 drops of grapefruit

Directions:

1 Add all ingredients to a spray bottle.  Shake thoroughly.

Editors note: Although it is natural, borax is toxic when ingested, and can cause skin irritation.  Keep away from children, pets and food preparation areas.  If you are concerned about using borax in this all purpose spray, you can omit it.