Of course! I'm the owner of Kashkan Restaurants and I cannot deny that the origin of the ingredients used in the kitchens is very important to me. A few years back I got a chance to go on a tour of a small organic farm that focused on growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs and wanted to do so sustainably. One thing that made an impression on me during the tour was how this farmer valued the need to keep soil and other living organisms healthy. Each stage of theirs was also creative and aimed at eco-friendly cropping after which the food was harmful no more but healthy. Understanding the level of consideration that goes into every single harvest was an eye-opener for me on the true meaning of farm-to-table. Where the workshop part was concerned, we attended sessions where we comprehended more about the cropping cycle and the type of crops that flourish at a given time. The farm also showed me heirloom varieties of vegetables that had gone extinct due to commercialization. This information has greatly influenced how I look for ingredients for my restaurant. I began concentrating more on the use of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. It is not only because they are fresher than their imported counterparts but also because they help uplift the local economy and minimize the carbon footprints brought about by transportation. I was also motivated to look for and use 'unknown' ingredients to develop different dishes for my clients. The trip enhanced my knowledge about the local suppliers and changed the way I work with the menus in Kashkan. It also stressed the need to establish connections with the farmers and know the sources of our food. Local farms such as the one I visited are not merely businesses; they are caretakers of the land and the solution to eating sustainably. Integrating more local products into our menus, in my opinion, would not only enhance our cuisine but would also positively impact the food chain.
Yes, I had the opportunity to visit a local organic farm just outside my city, and it was a best learning and enjoyable experience. The tour highlighted the meticulous care taken in growing crops without pesticides and the importance of sustainable farming. After this I am attracted towards organic land soil and after some time I also join save soil campaign by sadguru in india and they campaign to different parts of the world. Seeing firsthand how much effort went into each step, from soil health and nurture land to harvest, completely shifted how I viewed food. I now deeply appreciate where my produce comes from and prioritize buying local whenever possible, knowing it supports both the environment and the community. If you're looking to connect with your food, I highly recommend seeking out farm tours or workshops. They offer a valuable chance to understand the impact of sustainable practices and the benefits of supporting local producers. I am sure you will try gardening after these activity.