Kingsolver inspires vegetable garden
I know there's still plenty of chilly weather in our future, but I'm chomping at the bit for spring; I'm eager to trade my snow shovel for a garden hoe.
I'm blaming Barbara Kingsolver for my intensified interest in growing vegetables. In “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” (2007 Harper Collins). Kingsolver tells the story of her family's decision to eat only foods they could grow on their land in southern Appalachia or obtain from local suppliers. The book — cowritten with her daughter Camille Kingsolver and husband, Steven Hopp — is peppered with antidotes, recipes and arguments for the eat-local movement that continues to sweep the country.
Last year Jerome and I planted two tomato plants, some herbs and a very pushy butternut squash on a small patch of dirt between our front walk and driveway. We got some nice veggies from that little plot, but I would hardly use the term “garden” to describe it.
This year, inspired by a moderated book group discussion of “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” at the Palatine Public Library, I plan to dig up part of our sunny side yard (an ash tree in our backyard prevents a plot there) and really get serious about this gardening thing. The 2011 The Cook's Garden catalog has been my frequent companion as I dog-ear pages with seductive pictures of Myway arugula, Ladybug tomatoes and Iznik cucumbers (a good variety for patio pots if you lack tellable land).
What I grew out of the discussion (besides a deeper understanding of the book and its messages) is a circle of support. The other people in the room that Sunday afternoon came from all walks of life and with varying degrees of experience and they've have provided a wealth of information on gardening, composting and sources for local meats and produce.
As much as they've inspired me to get my hands into the dirt, they've inspired me to keep the eat-local dialogue open. By talking with neighbors, friends and co-workers I'm finding other people who have been bitten by the local and sustainable bug and either don't know where to start or are eager to share their know-how.
I've learned a lot already and know I have much more to learn in the coming months. I will share that knowledge with you. In return, I welcome advice and questions so we can learn together.
Breaking the mold: Forget what you think you know about Jell-O.
Artistic gelatin is an emerging dessert trend and you can get in on the ground floor with a class Saturday at the Wilton School in Darien.
During the 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. class, you'll discover the extraordinary effects you can achieve with gelatin from gelatin designer Lorena Frias-Hernandez. She'll will teach you how to transform simple ingredients into shimmering three-dimensional floral designs called gelatinas.
If you can't make Saturday's class (it costs $275, but the oohs and aahs your creations elicit will be worth it!), it will be taught again on Oct. 1 and Nov. 17.
The Wilton School is at 7511 Lemont Road. Register at school.wilton.com or (630) 985-6077.
Meatless Monday: If you're eager for a taste of spring, try Spring Couscous with Green Onions, Walnuts and Peas.
The recipe was developed by celebrated cookbook author Mollie Katzen for the California Walnut Board. Walnuts give the dish a pleasant crunch and provide protein and Omega-3s.
• Contact Food Editor Deborah Pankey at food@dailyherald.com or (847) 427-4524. Find her on Facebook at Deb Pankey Daily Herald.