The Incredible Edibles: Foraging & Feasting Adventure
“One is tempted to say that most human plants, after all, are the weeds.”
~John Burrou
Shantree Kacera, R.H., D.N., Ph.D.
The Incredible Edibles: Foraging & Feasting Adventure" is an immersive experience that takes participants through nature to discover and gather wild, perennial and native edible plants that are abundant during this time of year. Led by Shantree, a well-seasoned forager, participants learn about the diverse array of foods found in the wild, how to identify them safely, and how to incorporate them into delicious meals. This adventure offers a unique blend of education, exploration, and culinary delight, showcasing the abundance and diversity of edible treasures surrounding us in the natural world.
Along the way, they learn about the ecological importance of wild edibles and sustainable foraging practices. Expert guides share their knowledge of plant identification, seasonal availability, and traditional uses, illuminating the rich culinary heritage of wild foods.
Back at base camp or in a rustic country kitchen, participants roll up their sleeves and transform their foraged finds into gourmet meals under the guidance of skilled chefs. Every dish showcases the bounty of nature's pantry, from savoury soups and salads to decadent desserts infused with wild flavours. As they dine alfresco or gather around a communal table, participants savour the fruits of their labour and forge connections with fellow adventurers, deepening their appreciation for the natural world and its culinary wonders.
Diving deep into the world of nutritional, wild, and native edible plants and trees within our ecological landscape, this comprehensive journey explores the myriad facets, values, and applications of these often overlooked treasures.
Through "Recreate, Reconnect & Recollect Forgotten Food Traditions," participants unearth ancient culinary practices and cultural traditions, revitalizing lost knowledge and forging connections to our ancestral roots. From gathering techniques to high-vibration food preparation methods, this segment serves as an indispensable guide from the soil to the table, preserving and celebrating the wisdom of generations past.
With "Plant Identification Using the Six Tastes," adventurers learn to discern edible plants based on their flavour profiles, honing their sensory skills to confidently identify safe and nutritious wild foods. This wholistic approach to plant identification goes beyond mere visual cues, tapping into the subtle nuances of taste to navigate the rich tapestry of our edible landscape.
Delving into "The Nutrition of Wild Edibles," participants discover the unparalleled nutritional benefits of foraged fare, unlocking the potential of these nutrient-rich gems to nourish body and soul. Wild edibles offer a cornucopia of health-promoting compounds rivalling the most prized superfoods, from vitamins and minerals to antioxidants and phytonutrients.
"Timing the Plant Harvest" provides insights into nature's seasonal rhythms, guiding participants in the art of harvesting wild edibles at their peak flavour and nutritional potency. By syncing with nature's cycles, foragers can optimize their harvests and cultivate a deeper appreciation for each season's ephemeral beauty.
"Recipes for Living Deep" invites participants to integrate wild edibles into every aspect of their lives, from culinary creations to herbal remedies. With a treasure trove of recipes and applications, this segment empowers adventurers to infuse their daily routines with the vitality and vibrancy of the natural world.
Finally, "Fermented Condiments & Cultured Foods" explores the ancient art of fermentation, transforming wild edibles into probiotic-rich delicacies that nourish the gut and enliven the palate. From tangy sauerkraut to zesty kimchi, participants learn to harness the transformative power of beneficial bacteria, elevating their culinary repertoire to new heights.
These immersive experiences offer a profound journey of discovery, connection, and transformation. They illuminate the abundant bounty of our ecological landscape and invite participants to savour the untamed flavours of the wild.