Why Organic? Part 4: The Biosphere

Parts 1 through 3 of the “Why Organic?” series explained that organically grown food is more nutritious—reason enough to eat (and produce) it—and contains far fewer pesticide residues, whose effects are not fully known. But if that isn’t enough to convince you to eat organic, perhaps contemplating the ecological damage caused by conventional agriculture will change your mind.

Continue Reading: Why Organic? Part 4: The Biosphere

Tags: fieldhand | organic |

Planting Cold-Hardy Veggies for Spring Crops

As you probably noticed, the weather in mid-March was more along the lines of early June. This caused some absolutely incredible early spring scenes as spring growth is about a month ahead of schedule—blossoming trees, daffodils in full display, and perennials peaking out of the dirt at a much earlier date than normal.

For us gardeners, it was so tempting to get out there and plant something. So I did. I planted several rows in my garden, knowing full well that they would need protection later from the inevitable cold snap. If you still haven’t planted, no worries—you still have lots of time to plant cold-hardy vegetables in your garden.

Continue Reading: Planting Cold-Hardy Veggies for Spring Crops

Tags: gardening |

Mushroom Recipe Contest and Shiitake Mushroom Bisque from Chef Harrison

Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to the mushroom capital of the world? (It’s in Kennett Square, near Philadelphia.) And there are plenty of foragers in the central part of our state, as well. So let’s celebrate mushrooms this month!

Tell us—do you like cremini, portobello, shiitake, chanterelles, or the very exotic truffles? Do you eat them raw or sauteed or roasted? Share your favorite recipe with the Local Food Journey by May 1st for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Fasta Ravioli Company. Find details and submit your recipe today.

Continue reading for Chef Harrison Schailey’s Shiitake Mushroom Bisque, which he serves at Harrison’s Wine Grill in State College.

Continue Reading: Mushroom Recipe Contest and Shiitake Mushroom Bisque from Chef Harrison

Tags: recipecontest | recipe | mushrooms |

The Great Coffee Adventure: Cafe Lemont

I’ve never been to Paris or any charming little French town, but I feel like Cafe Lemont should be there.

Continue Reading: The Great Coffee Adventure: Cafe Lemont

Tags: coffee |