Deep Dive
How does Row 7 Seed Company create new vegetables?
Row 7 Seed Company collaborates with breeders to develop new vegetables that prioritize flavor. They take seeds that are often rejected by the industry due to lack of a definable market and champion them, bringing them to produce aisles.
Why don't chefs traditionally talk to breeders?
Chefs typically interact with farmers at farmers' markets, not breeders. Breeders, who are the architects of the food system, are usually in conversation with the industry, which prioritizes yield, storability, and shelf life over flavor.
What is the significance of flavor in Dan Barber's approach to vegetables?
Flavor is central to Dan Barber's philosophy. He believes that delicious vegetables grown from the right seed in the right soil are inherently good for the environment, health, and even democratic ideals. Hedonism and ethical farming are not separate but interconnected.
What environmental impact does the current food system have?
Agriculture is responsible for 33-35% of global greenhouse gas emissions, more than trains, planes, and automobiles combined. The current system often prioritizes monocultures and long-distance shipping, contributing to environmental degradation.
How does Row 7 Seed Company aim to change the perception of vegetables?
Row 7 Seed Company focuses on breeding and promoting vegetables for their flavor, making them appealing as center-of-plate dishes rather than sides. They aim to shift the narrative from vegetables as a punchline to vegetables as a source of pleasure and health.
What is the story behind the Badger Flame beet?
The Badger Flame beet was bred by Erwin Goldman, an Orthodox Jew from Wisconsin, who created it to make beets more appealing to kids by reducing the geosmin compound that gives beets their earthy taste. It has become a popular variety among chefs and consumers.
How does Dan Barber see chefs' role in the future of food?
Chefs are seen as ambassadors for good food, advocating for flavor and quality ingredients. They play a role in democratizing food experiences, making high-quality ingredients accessible to more people and influencing food culture beyond restaurants.
What is the Honey Nut Squash and how did it come about?
The Honey Nut Squash is a smaller butternut squash bred for flavor, developed through a collaboration between Dan Barber and a squash breeder. It started as a prototype in Barber's kitchen and is now widely available in stores like Walmart, Costco, and Whole Foods.
Why does Dan Barber believe celery needs to be re-bred?
Barber thinks celery has been bred down to a point where it lacks flavor. He believes that by focusing on breeding, we could develop a celery variety that is more delicious and versatile in cooking.
What does Dan Barber think about cooking lettuce?
Barber believes that certain lettuces, like Romaine, can be cooked to bring out their flavor. He has a dish at his restaurant that sautés salad greens as a way to end a meal cleanly and deliciously.
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