Fresh From the Farm: Great Local Foods from New York State

I remember the first time I drove through New York. I was a sophomore in high school, headed out to a youth convention in Rhode Island. I remember seeing the rolling hills and farmland and thinking, “This is New York?”

I have since learned that New York is home to a lot of beautiful farmland, and my sister lives with her family at Word of Life Bible Camp near Schroon Lake. I haven’t made it out there to visit yet (she comes “home” quite regularly), but when I do I am definitely taking this book along!

Fresh from the Farm: Great Local Foods from New York State has a sub-subtitle that is worth paying attention to: A guide to the best shops and farms, with recipes. The emphasis is definitely on the shops and farms, and the recipes are almost an afterthought.

The publisher’s description:

With farmstands, markets, vineyards, and signature recipes, this is the ultimate food-lover?s guide to the sumptuous natural bounty available in and around the world?s greatest city. As the interest in local foods and the trend of culinary tourism continue to grow, Fresh from the Farm takes gourmets and hungry travelers on an idyllic tour of the Empire State. Trekking from the apple orchards and dairy farms of the Hudson Valley to the vineyards and oyster bays of Long Island, the authors explore the breadth of New York state?s homegrown and homemade food renaissance. New York?s agrotourism industry is booming. Vacationers flock to the state?s charming inns, picturesque farms, and seaside bed-and-breakfasts to sample local cuisine. Among the many well-known producers and foodie destinations profiled are the renowned Blue Hill at Stone Farms, Blue Moon Fish, Cattle Corn Farm, Berkshire Berrries, and Satur Hill Farms. You?ll learn the secret behind Briermere Farms? famous fruit pies, how to make pizza using Coach Farms? goat cheese, and a savory preparation of Long Island duck braised in Wolffer Estate Cabernet Franc wine. With stunning photographs, tantalizing recipes, and helpful practical information about planning getaways to all of these regions, Fresh from the Farm is an essential and inspiring gift for guests and hosts alike.

Likes:

Gorgeous photos
History and profiles of local farms and business owners
Contact info
A “tour guide” feel, content is divided by region
Intriguing recipes (Lavender Panna Cotta, Lobster Cake, Pumpkin and Cheese Crostini)

Dislikes:

Would have liked to see more recipes
The tone of the writing is guidebook-like, which doesn’t lend itself to sitting down to devour.

Overall, I give this book a B-. If you live in New York, you’ll want to get a copy. If you don’t, you’ll either be disappointed or inspired to visit.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. Also, if you order Fresh From the Farm: Great Local Foods From New York State by following the link on my website, I will get a few cents from Amazon.com. This in no way influenced my opinion of this cookbook.

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Note: Drawing will close at midnight on Friday May 7 EST.

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