I just hung up the phone with my wife, Toni, who is currently at conference in Ojai, California where the weather is a perfect 80 degrees and sunny. To most, this is a vast improvement over the rain and cold that we are experiencing here in Milwaukee. While I certainly am jealous of the weather, I am thankful for the colors that Wisconsin currently has to offer and the vibrant foods that are a part of the fall harvest.
Last weekend Toni and I travelled up north to Eagle River for a quick weekend getaway. As we drove through the small towns along the way, we saw the changing colors of the leaves from green to bright shades of red and yellow.
While we were there we had the privilege of eating at a phenomonal restaurant, Riverstone. Chef-owned and run, the restaurant focuses on a local organics and an extensive wine list. Given the season, I was thrilled to find a dish that most perfectly fits with the season: butternut squash ravioli with an apple vodka cream sauce. By combining the sweet flavors of the butternut squash with the tart apples and creamy sauce, it was a perfect culinary dish.
In my own kitchen I am working with great squashes and the tail end of the apple season. Combining these flavors, with pumpkins and other seasonal highlights can make your table a great one.
In just a few weeks we will sit around tables all over this country celebrating Thanksgiving and enjoying a feast with friends and family. As we do this, I implore you to remember those who are less fortunate. Millions of people all over this country, in this city, and even just around the corner wonder where their next meal will come from. I urge every family to make an effort to donate canned foods, volunteer their time or donate money to organizations such as Second Harvest or our very own Jewish Community Pantry. In November you will find a donation bin in front of the cafe for your canned donations.
Within the next couple of weeks I will begin posting some great recipes for Thanksgiving and the beginning of winter. Check out my upcoming article in the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle!
Chef Jonah
