As the summer begins, Canola Growers has kicked things off with their Canola Eat Well Farm Tour Chef Retreat, hosted by Fidel Gastro’s Chef Matt Basile. The retreat was the third of an eight-part event series and since these events are Canola-inspired farm-to food-experiences, it had only made sense to take the guests out of Toronto and into the country.
Guests were treated to an exciting itinerary including a morning of rhubarb picking at Andrews’ Scenic Acres in Milton, a trip to Harvest Goodies and a family-style BBQ by Chef Matt Basile.
Upon arrival at Andrews’ Scenic Acres, the group was greeted by owner Bert Andrews who taught them all about growing and the harvest of asparagus and rhubarb. Soon after, guests headed into the fields where they could pick their own rhubarb crops to take home
Everyone then loaded back onto the bus for the quick drive to Harvest Goodies where the group was treated to a cold Estrella Damm, the Beer of Barcelona, and appetizers of Red Snapper Ceviche from Chef Basile.
After the appetizers, Canola Growers’ Ellen Pruden led the group in a Canola Crush activity; a new learning experience for many as it was the first time some of these guests had actually seen the seeds responsible for making canola oil.
Wrapping up the trip was a family-style BBQ lunch from Chef Basile featuring a canola-inspired menu including Shaved Asparagus Spring Salad, Carolina Ribs, Sticky Ribs, Smoked Lamb Leg, and Tandoori Potato Salad. Guests were then treated to a delicious dessert; Sweet Cornbread with Burnt Rhubarb Sauce & Mint Drizzle, but that didn’t end up being the last treat of the day. The menu was paired with Lacey Estate Vineyard wines.
Guests were introduced to winemaker Matt Setzkorn, of Scotch Block Winery, who treated them to a surprise fruit wine tasting followed by a group photo opp and a giveaway of Canola-inspired swag.
We hope our guests enjoyed their afternoon of meeting new friends and enjoying all that Milton had to offer. Feel free to follow #CanolaConnect on Twitter and Instagram for more photos and stories from the day! See you next time!
