Slow Food Orange County

In our fast-paced world it’s good to take a walk on the slow side now and then, escape the confines of the walls around us, spend time outdoors to enjoy, relax and rejuvenate. Living as close to the beach as I do you would think I’d be down there every day but, unfortunately, that’s not the case, especially in the summer when Huntington is over taken by surf and sun seekers by the thousands –  which is why I accepted an invitation from the Slow Food Orange County organization to attend their annual barbecue in Bommer Canyon again this year.

Last year I came away refreshed and rejuvenated with a startling new appreciation for the natural beauty that’s within a few miles of the acres of suburban sprawl we know as home in the OC. Nestled in the heart of Bommer Canyon is part of the  Old Irvine Ranch Cattle Camp where, amidst the rustic buildings under a canopy of old oaks and sycamores, Slow Food OC devotees gathered together for a magical evening of camaraderie, music, laughter, and incredible food! This year’s barbecue was the 3rd for Slow Food Orange County and each year it attracts more folks who are drawn to the vision of the Slow Food movement.

Grilling the chicken on the huge camp grill.

Local Tomato and Sweet Onion Salad
Basil Pistou, Burrata Cheese, California Olive Oil,
Lemon Juice, Monterey Sea Salt

Warm Heirloom Potato and Green Bean Salad
Garlic, Onions, Oregano, Red Wine Vinegar, Olive Oil

Grilled Corn, Bell Pepper, Summer Squash Succotash
and Chile Barbecued Citrus Marinated Mary’s Natural Chicken

The sun was low in the sky by the time the dessert of Local Berry Shortbread with a Grilled Lemon Biscuit and whipped cream arrived. Guest speaker, A.G. Kawamura, of Orange County Produce and former Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, took the stage for an after dinner talk followed by lively dancing to the country-rock strains of the 5 Star Band.

I joined the slow food movement last year. What exactly is it? Here are a few slow thoughts, if you’re passionate about any of them, then you’re a slow-foodie at heart and might like to get behind the movement and meet some other slow-foodies in your area:

• Eat locally and sustainably
• Eat fresh, seasonal foods
• Shop at farmers’ markets
• Plant a kitchen garden
• Visit a “pick-it-yourself” farm
• Preserve America’s food traditions
• Enjoy food with your family and friends
• Grow your own food or harvest your neighbor’s
• Eat together
• Join a CSA

Food is precious. Enjoy it! Taste it with others!

Many thanks to Chef Ryan Adams and his staff for the deliciously prepared farm-to-table menu and sponsors of the event:

•    Chef Ryan Adams of Sorrento Grille
•    City of Irvine
•   Irvine Ranch Conservancy
•    Honest Tea
•    LA Specialty Produce
•    Mary’s Free Range Chicken
•    Nika Water
•    Orange County Produce
•    Quivira Vineyards & Winery
•    Sadie Rose Baking Company
•    Weiser Family Farms
•    Stone Brewing Co.
•    Whole Foods Market

I’m in the process of uploading video clips from the evening to my YouTube channel. If you’d like to hear A.G. Kawamura’s talk and more, please check it out when you have a few minutes.