In this cold country of ours, is it possible to make a local-food feast for the holidays?
With the growing season a hazy memory, I went on a quest to find good Ontario foods for our Holiday menu. I searched all corners of the land (technically, all corners of the Internet) for some of the best treats. Believe it or not, there is still some great produce available in December: pears, apples, squash, beets, carrots, cucumber, mushrooms, lettuce … and lots more goodies for grownups and kids to get cookin’. And with that, I proudly present my ~ * local holidays selection * ~ widely inspired by our friends at the ELLICSR Kitchen.
ELLICSR’s Parsnip and Beet Marble Cake
This recipe is just the ticket for an afternoon break after a long walk outside. Picture a roaring fire, spiced tea brewing in the teapot, and the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg bringing the family together. I’m sold! Parsnips, beets, apple sauce and eggs can be found local in Ontario.
Ingredients
Almond Flour, Spelt Flour, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Grated Parsnip, Grated Beet, Maple Syrup, Apple Sauce, Eggs, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Ground Nutmeg
Ricotta Icing
Light Ricotta Cheese, Sliced Almonds, Lemon Zest
See the full recipe here
ELLICSR’s Buttercup Squash and Farro Salad with Green Goblin Dressing
Ingredients:
Buttercup or Acorn Squash, Farro Grain (any whole grain will work), Arugula, Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds, Smoked Paprika, Olive Oil, Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper.
Green Goblin Dressing: Lemon, Juice and Zest, Fresh Mint, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Minced Garlic, Arugula, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper.
See the full recipe here
ELLICSR’s Ginger & Lime Cranberry Sauce
A holiday season is not complete without a good cranberry sauce. At this time of year, you might find cranberries from Quebec or New Brunswick (not quite local, but good neighbours).
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients: Fresh Cranberries, Lime zest and juice, freshly grated Ginger, Ground Ginger, Brown Sugar, Water
See the full recipe here
Enjoy these recipes and see you in the new year at one of our Conversation Cafés, where UHN staff can get to the heart… and plate of local food at UHN. More details here.
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Happy Holidays everyone!
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