Edible Vancouver Island November/December 2023

ISLAND EXPERIENCE

THE ART OF THE WINTER FEAST There's no need to let the colder temperatures of winter keep you from enjoying a meal al fresco.

WORDS TEDDY COSCO

F or the intrepid outdoor enthusiast, winter's embrace offers more than just short days, long nights and snow-laden landscapes. A canvas for a culinary escapades, where the chill of the air meets the warmth of gourmet delights, there is no better time to enjoy a meticulously prepped and ready-to-be savoured meal amidst nature's grandeur. FROM THE KITCHEN TO THE CAMPFIRE The secret to a seamless outdoor meal, particularly in the winter, lies in the preparation. The comfort of your home kitchen is an excellent starting point. Here, you can take your time to front-end load your efforts so you can spend more time outdoors enjoying time with friends and family. I like meals that are cooked low and slow: think rich chilis, hearty stews or a creamy butternut squash soup. These types of dishes take their time, flavours get a chance to meld and

develop, and are generally very straightforward to prepare. One of my favourite go-tos is a hearty seafood soup cooked up with some local Chinook, spot prawns and beer. Once your masterpiece is ready, the next step is crucial: the transfer. This is where items like double-walled travel crock pots come into play. Designed to retain heat and maintain the integrity of your dishes, these vessels ensure that your food remains hot and flavourful, even hours after it's been cooked, which is ideal when you’re trying to bring meals into the outdoors. Beyond the meal itself, double-walled vacuum flasks are indispensable. These vessels come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit a variety of the food or beverage options on your menu. Whether you're looking to feed a crowd your signature pulled pork or fill some mugs with a rich hot chocolate, there’s a double-walled

32 NOV/DEC 2023 EDIBLE VANCOUVER ISLAND