Chef's Corner SnackChat: November 2024

Chef's Corner SnackChat: November 2024

It is nearly impossible to overstate the power of partnership. From the confidence of support to the value of an external perspective, teaming up to tackle something as critical as culinary presentation brings both sides of foodservice the power to maximize the cultural impact on a category. The potentially fickle popularity of something becomes tangible in the hands of chefs and culinary specialists, with a grasp made even firmer by the knowledge and confidence of suppliers. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding—and so you will find in what follows here… 

 


California Giant Berry Farms

Luis Reyes, 

Culinary Specialist, Sysco West Coast Florida

“The Chef Invitational Academy was a valuable experience that allowed me to refine not only my culinary skills but also my food styling and photography. During the innovation session, I was able to perfect my Blueberry Mojo Pulled Pork Stack with a Blueberry-Jalapeño Corn Pancake, Blueberry/Corn Chow Chow, and Cilantro Lime Slaw. This dish showcases the versatility of blueberries, demonstrating how they can seamlessly integrate into a variety of cuisines, including Latin cuisine.”

Tom Smith, 

Director of Sales, California Giant Berry Farms  

“The California Giant Berry Farms Chef Invitational is a cornerstone in elevating berries as a culinary necessity. This year’s iteration of the Chef Invitational Academy, which focused on skill development for our former Top Chefs, was no different. By collaborating with renowned chefs, we are not only showcasing the versatility of our berries but also empowering them with the knowledge and inspiration to create innovative berry-centric dishes. This partnership is a catalyst for driving berry consumption and solidifying berries as a must-have ingredient in the foodservice industry.” 

 


WINDSET FARMS®

Chef Ned Bell, 

Executive Chef, WINDSET FARMS®

“As a father, chef, and local food champion, I have been focused on creating and cooking recipes that are carefully grown and harvested by farmers, ranchers, and fishers in our local communities. By staying active, and shopping for and cooking with local ingredients, we encourage a healthy mind, body, and community. Our partnership with WINDSET FARMS® aligns perfectly with these values, as their commitment to sustainable growing practices ensures that we can continue to support local, fresh, and responsibly produced ingredients.”

Randi Church,

Marketing Manager, WINDSET FARMS® 

“We love working with Chef Ned Bell to bring life to our produce. Not only are his recipes delicious and creative, but they are also relatively easy to prepare, using a few fresh ingredients packed full of flavor. It’s exciting to share these recipes with our customers and consumers to spark inspiration. Chef Ned is also a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and local produce. He’s more than just a chef, he’s a partner in promoting health, nutrition, and sustainable growing. Be sure to follow WINDSET FARMS® on Instagram and Facebook for the latest Chef Ned Bell Recipes!”

 

 


B&W Quality Growers

 

Chef Mark Yu, 

Executive Chef, Restaurant 53

“When we were opening Restaurant 53, incorporating fresh, reliable ingredients was very important to us. Water spinach was on our radar, but sourcing it daily proved difficult—until we connected with Baldor and B&W Quality Growers. Their consistent supply brought this vibrant green to our menu, and the tender bottom of the stem, unlike others we’ve tried, stir-fry beautifully. This collaboration allows us to deliver farm-fresh, comforting dishes to our customers, every day.”

See Chef Yu in action!

Todd Gosule, 

Executive Vice President of Sales, B&W Quality Growers

“At B&W Quality Growers, we take pride in the exceptional quality and versatility of our water spinach. It’s exciting to see chefs incorporating this unique leafy green, using it to create flavorful, innovative dishes. Our commitment to delivering fresh, nutrient-rich products that enhance culinary experiences is what motivates us, and we're excited to continue building strong relationships with partners in the foodservice industry.”