An Epicurean Exchange!
by Melanie Doerksen (ItalCook)
11/01/2009
It is with great speed that I have to write this brief letter, which seems ironic because it is the exact opposite experience one has when they arrive at the doors of Ital.Cook. Eleven
lucky graduates from the culinary management program at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, Canada just recently completed the short course that was offered at the end of
August 2008. The two-week program offered some wonderful insight for the students into the world of gastronomy. But more importantly, it showcased the philosophy of Slow Food in conjunction with the regional cooking of the Marches and the passion that each Chef
at the school has for his/her craft.
Through the theory classes of wine, salumi, cheese and olive oil to the practical teaching
in the kitchen with good, clean, fair food, the students left Ital.Cook with a true understanding
and appreciation of food. But it was not just an appreciation of “Italian” food.
Fanshawe students gained a deeper understanding of what real food is like. So they not only recognize, but also value things like: the perfume and flavour of vine-ripened tomatoes
and freshly caught fish; the delicate nature of a hand-made pasta; the simplicity of a good
ragu and the pride one can take from a freshly baked loaf of bread.
Many of the students on this exchange had never been to Europe before, let alone to a country whose passion for food and wine envelops anyone who comes to visit. I believe
it was truly a liberating experience for those students who embraced the seasonal food, the
local wine, the abundant history in the area and the dynamic culture. All of these experiences
have generated a respect for the sustenance that passes across their cutting
boards and dinner tables on a day-to-day basis. It is this philosophy that will be brought
back to Canada, and I hope that it not only affects their work, but it also bleeds into their
personal lives with family and friends and ultimately into the communities in which they live.
Thank you Ital.Cook for such a great experience!
Melanie Doerksen
Chef-Instructor, Fanshawe College
Slow Food London Convivium Leader