The Benefits of Eating Seasonally & Locally
In the world of wedding catering, the choices we make about ingredients can transform an event from ordinary to extraordinary. Embracing local and seasonal ingredients not only adds a distinct flavor to dishes but also contributes to a more sustainable and community-driven approach to food.
Choosing seasonal ingredients is an important step towards environmental sustainability. Seasonal produce is more likely to be grown locally, reducing the need for extensive transportation and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with your meals. It's a small but impactful way to contribute to a healthier planet.
Seasonal eating often goes hand in hand with supporting local farmers. When you choose to consume what's in season, you're fostering a connection with local agriculture. This support is essential for the livelihood of Chicagoland farmers. There are over 27,000 farms in Illinois and many are right here in Cook County!
Seasonal eating also encourages culinary creativity. As ingredients change with the seasons, so do the possibilities in the kitchen. Challenge yourself to explore new recipes and cooking techniques that highlight the unique produce of each season.
Some excellent ways to shop for seasonal ingredients include visiting your local farmers market. Some excellent Farmers Markets here in Chicago include city sponsored sites, neighborhood markets like Lincoln Park and the Logan Square markets. The 61st Street Farmers Market is open year-round, and offers indoor shopping in the winter months.
You can also catch the Fresh Moves Mobile Market which is a converted bus that acts as a “produce aisle on wheels”
Consider joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). Community Supported CSA is a production and marketing model whereby consumers buy shares of a farm’s harvest in advance. Consumers become CSA members by paying an agreed amount at the beginning of the growing season, either in one lump sum or in installments. Check out Nichols Farm & Orchard, The Urban Canopy and Tomato Mountain, all of which are local farms that deliver fresh produce right to your door.
Locally sourced foods often travel shorter distances from farm to table, reducing the carbon emissions associated with transportation. Additionally, local farmers often prioritize sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and reduced pesticide use, contributing to healthier ecosystems and soil quality.
One of the joys of working with local ingredients is the ever-changing palette that each season brings. Caterers can create dynamic and seasonal menus that showcase the best of what the Midwest has to offer at any given time. You can "eat with the season" by using locally available produce. For example, everyone loves caprése skewers, but when local tomatoes aren’t available your caterer might offer a fall/winter version with Michigan apples instead!
Big Delicious Planet (a Green Wedding Alliance Member) takes it one step further by using their own organic urban farm just steps from their kitchen! This allows them to have a sustainably focused menu that includes produce that was harvested hours before each wedding reception.
By sourcing locally, caterers can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Shorter supply chains mean fresher produce, less energy consumption, and a smaller environmental impact. To learn more about Big Delicious Planet and other sustainably minded caterers, check out the Green Wedding Alliance's Green Guide.