The Okanagan Valley, renowned for its lush vineyards, fertile orchards, and stunning landscapes, now finds its gastronomic soul captured in the vibrant pages of Okanagan Eats by Dawn Postnikoff and Joanne Sasvari. This cookbook is not just a collection of recipes; it’s a culinary journey through one of Canada’s most bountiful regions, offering readers a taste of the Okanagan’s rich food culture.
One of the most striking features of Okanagan Eats is its commitment to local ingredients. The authors, both deeply rooted in the Okanagan food scene, have meticulously curated recipes that showcase the region’s seasonal bounty. From succulent peaches and cherries in summer to hearty root vegetables and squash in the fall, the cookbook celebrates the freshness and diversity of local produce.
Each recipe is thoughtfully paired with tips on sourcing ingredients, whether it’s from the local farmers’ markets, U-pick farms, or your backyard garden. This emphasis on locality not only supports sustainable eating practices but also ensures that the dishes burst with authentic flavors unique to the Okanagan.
Postnikoff and Sasvari have created a delightful array of recipes that cater to a wide range of palates and occasions. From simple weekday meals to elaborate dinner party fare, Okanagan Eats has something for everyone. Tomatoes are plentiful at this time of year, so we thought you’d like to try Nick Atkin’s (15 Park Bistro at Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos) Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho in our Recipe section. Perfect for warm August days…and you can freeze the soup to remind you of summer’s sunshine.
Standout recipes include the Orchard Salad with Poached Pears, Endive and Honey-Caramelized Carrots, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that epitomizes the Okanagan summer. The Charred Apple and Triple Cream Brie Tart, with its flaky crust and tender filling, is a nod to the region’s rich apple harvest in the fall. For those looking to impress at a dinner party, the Duck Breast with Red Cabbage Purée, Seared Red Cabbage, Pickled Cherries and Miso–Red Wine Jus is a showstopper.
Beyond the recipes, Okanagan Eats is sprinkled with engaging stories and insights from local chefs and food artisans. These narratives provide a deeper understanding of the region’s food culture and the passionate individuals behind it. The authors’ profiles of local wineries, cheese makers, and organic farms create a rich tapestry of the Okanagan’s gastronomic landscape. Purchase a copy of this beautifully crafted book at https://www.figure1publishing.com/book/okanagan-eats/ or win a copy in our Giveaway section.
The visual appeal of Okanagan Eats cannot be overstated. The stunning photography by local photographers brings each recipe to life, making the book as much a coffee table centerpiece as it is a kitchen companion. The images of sun-drenched orchards, glistening lakes, and vibrant vineyards are a feast for the eyes, evoking a sense of place that enhances the overall culinary experience.
Okanagan Eats by Dawn Postnikoff and Joanne Sasvari is more than just a cookbook; it’s a love letter to the Okanagan Valley. It invites readers to explore the region’s culinary treasures, encouraging a deeper connection to the land and the people who cultivate it. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your backyard or a food enthusiast eager to experience the flavors of British Columbia, this cookbook offers a delicious and visually stunning journey through one of Canada’s most enchanting regions.
Excerpted from Okanagan Eats: Signature Chefs’ Recipes from British Columbia’s Wine Valleys by Dawn Postnikoff and Joanne Sasvari. Photography by Jon Adrian. Copyright © 2023 by Dawn Postnikoff and Joanne Sasvari. Recipes copyright © 2023 by 15 Park Bistro at Watermark Beach Resort – Nick Atkins. Excerpted with permission from Figure 1 Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher. https://www.figure1publishing.com/book/okanagan-eats/
