Episode 237 " Opening the Walk-in Cooler; Promoting Mental Health for Chefs - Strategies for Well-being in the Kitchen"

Join hosts Jonathan Frazier and William Stringer on “The Edible Valley Podcast” as they delve into the crucial topic of mental health for chefs. In this episode, they explore the unique challenges faced in the culinary world and share practical strategies for promoting well-being in the kitchen. From achieving work-life balance to creating a supportive work environment, managing stress, and recognizing hard work, Jonathan and William provide valuable insights and tips to keep chefs healthy and thriving. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion designed to support the mental health of those in the culinary profession.

Episode 225 ”How much to tip?”

 
Today in our latest episode William Stringer and Chef Jonathan Frazier, dive deep into the world of restaurant tipping. Join us as we unravel the history, dos and don'ts, and the intriguing reasons behind the increasing percentages. From calculating the perfect tip to exploring global tipping customs, we serve up a delectable discussion on this often overlooked aspect of dining etiquette. Whether you're a seasoned diner or a culinary enthusiast, our podcast provides insights that will leave you tipping with confidence. Tune in and let us savour the nuances of tipping in restaurants! Also this great recipe.
 
 
 
 
 
Sautéed Kale with Chorizo Recipe: Ingredients:
● 1 bunch of kale, washed and chopped● 1/2 lb (about 225g) chorizo sausage, sliced ●● 1 onion, finely chopped● 2 cloves garlic, minced● 1 tablespoon olive oil● Salt and pepper to taste● Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
● Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Prepare the Kale:
● Wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Cook Chorizo:
● In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until it starts to brown and releases its flavorful oils.
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
● Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Kale:
● Add the chopped kale to the skillet in batches if necessary, allowing it to wilt down. Stir frequently to coat the kale in the flavorful chorizo and onion mixture. Cook until the kale is tender but still vibrant green.
Season:
● Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Serve:
● Remove the skillet from heat and serve the sautéed kale and chorizo hot. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of brightness.
Optional Additions:
● You can customize this dish by adding other ingredients like, Mushroomscherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cannellini beans for extra flavor and texture.

Episode 224” What is on the Menu?

William Stringer, a seasoned food critic, and Chef Jonathan, an acclaimed culinary expert, engaged in a lively conversation about menus. They delved into the intricacies of this essential restaurant element. Chef Jonathan explained the significance of a menu as a reflection of a restaurant's identity, showcasing its culinary expertise. They discussed various menu types, from à la carte to prix fixe, emphasizing how each caters to different dining preferences and occasions, ultimately shaping the dining experience.
Feta fried eggs are a delicious and simple dish to make. Here's Williams basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
2 large eggs
2-3 ounces of feta cheese, crumbled
1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, dill, or chives), red pepper flakes, or sliced cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color
Instructions:
Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter and allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
Once the oil or butter is hot, add the crumbled feta cheese to the pan. Spread it out in an even layer, allowing it to sizzle and slightly melt. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges of the cheese start to turn golden brown.
While the feta is frying, crack the eggs into a small bowl, being careful not to break the yolks.
Gently slide the cracked eggs on top of the fried feta cheese. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cover the pan with a lid and cook the eggs to your desired level of doneness. If you prefer runny yolks, cook for about 2-3 minutes for sunny-side-up eggs. For over-easy or over-medium eggs, cook a bit longer.
If you want, you can sprinkle some optional toppings like fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the eggs during the last minute of cooking.
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, carefully transfer them to a plate, using a spatula to scoop up the feta and eggs together.

Episode 223 ”Celebrating 60 years of the Canadian Culinary Association”

Better late than never. In this exciting podcast episode, Chef Jonathan and his partner Erin embark on a culinary adventure to the breathtaking Niagara Falls for the 60th Annual Culinary Federation National Conference. As they journey to this picturesque destination, they encounter not only culinary delights but also the natural beauty of the falls. William, the inquisitive podcast host, poses the question of adventure, prompting discussions on the thrill of exploration and the culinary treasures they discover along the way. Listeners are treated to a sensory experience as the duo describes their encounters with exciting cuisine, their vibrant food community, and the mesmerizing landscapes that make this trip a memorable adventure.

Episode 216 ”Taking the right path, Where to cook?”

LOVE to cook but don't know then right career path to take? In part 1 of this 2 part episode we discuss the miriad of job opportunities for a cook or chef in the hospitality sector. *spoiler alert* there are a lot!! Join us as we explore our Edible Valley. 

Episode 215 ”The Next Chapter”

We are back! In this ‘3-3-1’ episode, your ‘3’ presenters Jonathan, Darren and William are back together! We also have 3 great guests, and 1 HUGE suprise! Join us for one episode of the Edible Valley Podcast you cant afford to miss!
 
Locals at the Old House stays Local
  When Chef Ronald and Tricia St Pierre started Locals 13 years ago, they set out to create a restaurant that highlighted the range and depth of amazing foods grown and produced in the Comox Valley, sourcing as many local ingredients as possible. Within a scant few years, the restaurant was so successful, that they needed to find a larger location.
   Serendipity stepped in, as the very restaurant that Chef Ronald established his esteemed reputation in, ‘The Old House’, had come available. Since then, the restaurant has been cemented as the Heart of Vancouver Island. 
   Chef Jonathan, Darren, Sean and Erin all grew up in this community, and the North Island, and all have strong backgrounds in food and hospitality. Aside from being a celebrated Chef of the Comox Valley for over 20 years, Jonathan started the Edible Valley podcast 10 years ago to get to the heart of the food he was featuring in all of his dishes, and the people behind that food. Darren quickly joined with his perspective as a hospitality-centered entrepreneur. Between the two of them, they have run, operated, and owned many key Comox Valley hospitality and food based establishments. 
  Sean made his mark in Vancouver Island hospitality by running the largest dining and entertainment venue in Victoria, and other successful restaurants for nearly a decade. His wife and partner is a Marketing, branding, and design professional, with experience in both in the public and private sectors – including hospitality. All 4 are eager to ply their trades and talents to further Locals’ reach.
  With a love of the menu, the atmosphere, and the culture, the new owners have no intent of changing anything, except to present the best and most polished version of Locals that it can be. A touch of modernization, a little experimentation, the introduction of a Market  Sheet – featuring  new items that highlight the best of what is available a la minute, Local’s will be the same but better.
  They wish Ronald and Tricia all the best in their retirement – although they won’t be straying too far, as they are making themselves available to mentor the crew where required.      
They invite you down to the restaurant to meet them yourself – or make a reservation today at 250-338-6493
   
 
 

Episode 213 ” Wedding Planing and Hiring a Caterer”

Williams getting married! The perfect time to talk about the unbelievably large list of food related tasks that need to get done; from questions to ask the caterer, to steps you can take to minimise things going wrong.
Its time to put your dancing shoes on as we jive into the world of wedding food!

Episode 204 ”Certifications in Cooking” Chef Series #2

On this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, chef Jonathan Frazier sits down with third year  apprentice Miguel Varela to discuss the levels and training in the cooking profession. They discuss the current three year cooks apprenticeship program to become a red seal as well as certified chef and master chef programs. Join us as we learn more about Miguels journey and what is needed to be learned to become a chef.
 

Episode 201 ”So you want to be a Chef ?” Chef series #1

On this episode, Chef Jonathan ask the question what does it take to be a chef? It’s one thing to cook it’s another thing to be the one in charge. If this interest you then join with us as we explore the world of culinary arts and the rewarding career that comes along with it. 
I guess it’s time to tattoo up and show off those cuts and burns we are about to start learning what it takes to become a chef.

Episode 200 ”#200”

Its finally here, the 200th episode of the Edible Valley Podcast. With the 10th anniversary on the horizon, Jon, Darren and William discuss some of the standout highlights from the last 10 years, covering the most memorable guests and lessons learnt. With some spoilers about the next 10 years, this is a podcast not to be missed. Join us, as we explore your, Edible Valley.