Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair!

Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair!

As much as we love formal events like the Imua Ball and the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, one of our favorite annual events to attend is the Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair. There has been an enthusiastic resurgence in island farming in recent years, and The AgFest celebrates and encourages that. Did you know that in the past few years a local group has successfully planted over one MILLION fruit trees? Yes. From new fruit tree crops to the delight of frequent bursts of glorious sunflower covered acres, farming is a part of Maui life, even in today’s world.

For more than a decade, our island has been a leader in the “farm-and-pasture-to table” concept. When you see Dine Out Maui or “Localiscious” on a restaurant menu, you know the dish features products that are grown here. We enjoy patronizing these establishments, not only to support the economy and enjoy the wonderfully fresh fare, but to also provide motivation for a new generation of farming professionals.

Agriculture has always been a rich part of Hawaii’s heritage. From cattle and wild boar in the 1800’s to pineapple, sugar and coffee in the 1900’s, farming is key to what makes Maui … Maui. And it’s not just tropical crops. Our Maui onions, Kula corn and tomatoes, watermelon and of course taro – are the BEST.

If you are lucky enough to attend this classic community event in a few short weeks, don’t forget to check out the “Grand Taste”. An interactive Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair favorite where you’ll a chance to see what our island chefs will create by using locally grown produce, island raised meat or fresh caught seafood. This year the competition will determine not only what item would make the best pot-luck style dish but for our dessert lovers out there, they are also introducing a first annual “Grand Dessert.” And yes, there WILL be sampling stations!

We’d tell you more, but writing this has made us hungry. See you next month!

Aloha, Greg & Leah

A “homegrown” recipe from Edible Hawaiian Island Magazine in honor of the upcoming Agfest!

Recipe by Chef Hillary Barsby.

Maui Salad

Instructions

Salad:

1. Wash and spin salad greens.
2. Shave heart of palm, and set aside.
3. Dice or slice avocado into strips.
4. Peel and cube beets, and roast in a 375-degree oven with avocado oil, salt, and thyme for 20 minutes or until tender.
5. Place raw macadamia nuts on a sheet tray. Bake in a 350-degree oven until toasted, 5-7 minutes

Dressing:

1. Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender (such as a Vitamix or Blendtech), and blend for 15 seconds or until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Thin the dressing with a splash of water if it is too thick.

Assemble and Serve:

1. Place greens into a salad bowl with some of the beets, heart of palm, and sprouts.
2. Toss with 3 tablespoons of dressing to start and add more to your liking.
3. Place onto plates and garnish with additional ingredients.
4. Grind fresh sea salt and black pepper over the top.

Maui Salad Recipe from Edible Hawaiian Island Magazine