Fraser Valley Food Show celebrates British Columbia's real food
What do Reiko Mackenzie of Real Housewives of Vancouver, a sausage making competition and a cranberry bog have in common? They were are all at the Fraser Valley Food Show. Exhibitors from across B.C. gathered at the Trade-X in Abbotsford last weekend to showcase the bountiful food of British Columbia.
Located an hour outside of Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Food Show has become the place to showcase local food from the bountiful farming community. This past weekend at the Trade-X in Abbotsford exhibitors from across BC gathered to share their passion for local food.
Real Housewife of Vancouver star and foodie, Reiko Mackenzie, was a presenter on the Celebrity Food Network stage alongside Chef Chris Remington from Penticton's Hooded Merganser restaurant.
The two hosted several cooking classes together throughout the weekend with an emphasis on the use of local ingredients. Reiko explained, "My daughter inspired me to try home gardening," since then she has become a supporter of local and sustainable produce. "It's important to support local farmers and make fresh, healthy choices," she said.
The 'houswife' even swapped her high heels for waders and mucked around in the on-site BC Cranberries, cranberry bog.
Reiko tested the crowds knowledge on the benefits of a gluten-free lifestyle and posed for photos with fans of the show after her presentation.
She also has plans for an upcoming "passion project", a cookbook which is sure to feature many healthy and gluten-free recipes from the RHOV star. "I want it to be authentic and true to myself" says Reiko about the book.
The Abbotsford Trade-X was filled with vendors showcasing many new products. Indoor herb gardens were on display, rainbows of macarons galore, chips and dip for the taking and of course the free samples. All attendees were given goodie bags full of food items to take home as well.
The Dairy Farmers of Canada held a series of seminars on cheese, which educated guests on topics such as cheese and wine pairings and how to properly store different types cheeses.
A mystery 'black box' ingredient competition was held as 17 local chefs competed in City TV's Master Chef competition. The chefs competed for not only the title but also $1,000 worth of Dudson China plus a Shun Classic six-piece Basic Block Set courtesy of KnifePro. Chef William Tse from The Sandbar in Vancouver was crowned the Master Chef champion.
In the 'Bite of the Valley' dining section local restaurants showcased and sampled their best appetizers and provided coupons for their restaurants to hungry attendees.
Local breweries and wineries were also there and people were invited to participate in the 'Grapes and Hops' education stage for tastings. With less crowds than it's counterpart Eat Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Food Fest is a fun, accessible way to discover new and local food in your community.