Image from Eat Local
So I’m not going to be crazy strict with this project. There are a few things I NEED, and most likely will not find in New York or the surrounding states. Coffee and olive oil top the list. And if someone decides to have me over for dinner or wants to take me out to a tasty restaurant, I’m not going to refuse the kind invitation because all elements of the meal aren’t locally grown. Then, of course, there’s life getting in the way. As much as I really try to bring lunch to work and cook every night, it’s not always possible. Between my commute and job (and when I make it to the gym), I’m usually gone early in the morning and home late. I try to cook bigger meals, having things ready to unfreeze sometimes on weekday nights or else learn to master those 30 minute pot to plate dinners, but it’s not always possible. Takeout also sometimes comes into play. I will try to limit out take out eating (for local and budget purposes), but it’s going to happen some days…
Here are the basic rules I’ve come up with (subject to change as the project evolves):
- Home cooked meals to include as much local produce, local dairy, meat and fish possible
- Freshly baked bread (I’m pushing it a little) or bread from local bakeries; same goes for pastries and pies
- Local or homemade condiments as often as possible (jams, honey, dressing, syrup, etc)
- Grains and dried products that cannot be bought locally will be in bulk–Thank you Park Slope Food Coop!
- Spices/Coffee/Oils will be fair trade and organic if possible
Let’s get LOCAL!
Brooklyn Locavore 
SINCE we all starting using better fuels and shopping locally…there has been a MARKED reduction in air pollution and “brown cloud” inversions that used to hang over ITHACA sometimes in winter, and often in summer. ( Now just get those pesky traffic lights timed EVEN better!)
In the last decade, “local” has grown to mean something more, something much bigger than just a “green” slogan. LOCAL this is THE OLD way, renewed. I feel blessed to even “graze” the edge of shopping in such a rich area for locally sourced foods, beverages and products, and even more blessed that we can be part of it. LIVE IT UP!
ee citylightsbb.com odessacofffee.com nyhotbox.com
As a retired farmer I always look for local product when shopping. So I am all for the ‘local’ scene.
For me, it’s not just the product but the relationship. I love the experience of shopping at the farmer’s market and talking to who grew my food, rather than just mindlessly buying (questionable) produce from the supermarket.
This comment may not be suitable but it follows from what you have just said. When first married my mother in law would castigate me if I mentioned (just to stir her) that the lambs were looking well and make a good roast. Then she woould head off to the supermarket and buy a leg of lamb for Sunday lunch without giving a second thought to where it came from.
That irks me so much. I mean given I haven’t experienced the full cycle of food. Never hunted or killed my own supper (well, I’ve fished) but not having (especially not caring) any connection to where your food comes from blows my mind. Last summer I saw a 8 year old fascinated that corn grew on the cob and on stalks. I think he was convinced it came as individual kernels, from the freezer section. I don’t blame him, but his parents should be more responsible.
So glad I found your blog via SITS – love your project/mission and the fact that you are realistic about it!
Thanks Kelly! Haha, I try my best. Loving your blog too. I love the power of SITS and finding such great connects.