Ep 22. On the Road: Hudson Valley

Simply Ming season 16 episode 22 is titled On the Road: Hudson Valley. In this episode, chef Ming Tsai heads to the Hudson Valley to explore the local cuisine and meet with chefs who are championing farm-to-table practices. From small local farms to innovative restaurants, Ming discovers the unique and flavorful ingredients being used in the Hudson Valley.

The episode begins with Ming visiting a local farm where he learns about the importance of supporting local agriculture and the benefits of using fresh, organic produce in cooking. Ming then meets with Chef Zak Pelaccio, who takes him on a tour of his restaurant Fish & Game. Known for its inventive cuisine, Fish & Game is a prime example of the farm-to-table movement in the Hudson Valley. Ming and Zak talk about the importance of using locally-sourced ingredients and how it can benefit both the community and the environment.

Next, Ming visits a distillery to learn about the local spirits being made in the Hudson Valley. He speaks with the owners and learns about the process of making whiskey, from selecting the grains to aging the spirit. Ming even gets to taste some of the whiskey and notes the unique flavor profile that comes from using local ingredients.

Ming then heads to the Culinary Institute of America, where he meets with Chef John Novi and learns about the school's focus on sustainability and farm-to-table practices. Chef Novi takes Ming on a tour of the campus and shows him the gardens where students grow their own produce for use in the school's restaurants.

In the final segment of the episode, Ming visits a restaurant called Gaskins where he meets with Chef Sarah Suarez. Known for its innovative cuisine and use of local ingredients, Gaskins is a showcase for the best of the Hudson Valley's farm-to-table movement. Ming and Sarah discuss the challenges of sourcing local ingredients and the importance of supporting small farms and local businesses.

Throughout the episode, Ming showcases the unique and flavorful cuisine of the Hudson Valley and highlights the chefs who are working hard to make farm-to-table practices a reality. With stunning visuals and fascinating interviews, On the Road: Hudson Valley is a must-watch for any food lover or anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and local food systems.