Show 437, August 7, 2021: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Birkholm’s Bakery & Café in Solvang was founded by Carl “Cookie” Sr. and Charlotte Birkholm in 1951.  2021 celebrates the 70th Anniversary of this local institution. The Birkholms have been baking as a family and the recipes and techniques passed from generation to generation.  In 1980, Carl Jr. and Elizabeth Birkholm stepped in to carry on the tradition of baking in Solvang.  Carl continues to use the original Danish recipes that “Cookie” brought over from Denmark. In 2012, son Carl “Thomas” returned to Birkholm’s and the Santa Ynez Valley with the desire to learn and continue the business like his Grandfather “FarFar” and Father had done before him.  Thomas is the 3rd generation of Birkholm bakers in Solvang and with the Family he is carrying forward the proud Family tradition. 3rd generation baker Thomas Birkholm joins us rolling pin in hand.

The well-traveled Hany Ali is the executive chef of Europa Village Wineries and Resort in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine country. His current primary area of responsibility (as the Resort expands with Italian and French winery estates in development) is overseeing the cuisine at Bolero Restaurante & Cantina at Bolero at Europa Village as well as all the on-site catering and special events. Bolero Restaurante serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily as well as Sunday Brunch. “Bolero Restaurante takes the guest on a culinary journey throughout the country of Spain—from the humble farm-to-table cuisines of Asturia, to the majesty of modern interpretations coming from San Sebastian or Barcelona. The menus celebrate the centuries-old tradition of dining and drinking together in Tapas style. Whether it is seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, or the finest cheeses and charcuteries in Europe, the meal is shared by all.” We’ll meet Chef Hany Ali.

“As a celebration of the short Hatch Chile season, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is hosting an afternoon of ‘Roasting & Toasting’ on Saturday, August 14 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at its original Tustin locationExecutive Chef Yvon Goetz and Chef de Cuisine James Chavez will be live roasting Melissa’s Hatch Chile Peppers and serving them up in a variety of unique dishes. Event attendees will be able to enjoy the Hatch Chile-focused dishes, along with beer, tequila and live music on The Winery’s recently expanded patio, situated in the heart of The District in Tustin.” Chef Yvon is our guest with Hatch Peppers in hand.

Robert Schueller of Melissa’s (our resident Prince of Produce) presented two talks on the Culinary Stage in the OC Pavilion on Opening Day at the 2021 OC Fair. On the menu were California Specialty Fruit Crops and California Specialty Vegetable Crops. When Robert was with us last month we ran out of time before he could highlight California Vegetable Specialty Crops. We’ll pick up the conversation with that. Think rhubarb, heirloom tomatoes, artichokes, and Melissa’s Steamed Line of ready to enjoy beets, chickpeas and lentils. Also, it’s now the short, but always anticipated, fresh Hatch Chile Pepper season. Robert will talk about convenient area chile roastings and the publication of Melissa’s all-new Hatch Pepper Cookbook with over 100 inspiring (and home-kitchen tested) recipes.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain… “Regenerative agriculture” is very much in the news these days. The practice can actually help reduce the carbon footprint and replenish depleted soil as a growing medium which is a big positive. What’s it all about? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 437, August 7, 2021: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part One

Hany Ali of Europa Village

The well-traveled Hany Ali is the executive chef of Europa Village Wineries and Resort in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine country. His current primary area of responsibility (as the Resort expands with Italian and French winery estates in development) is overseeing the Spanish-accented cuisine at Bolero Restaurante & Cantina at Bolero at Europa Village as well as all the on-site catering and special events. Bolero Restaurante serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily as well as Sunday Brunch.

“Bolero Restaurante takes the guest on a culinary journey throughout the country of Spain—from the humble farm-to-table cuisines of Asturia, to the majesty of modern interpretations coming from San Sebastian or Barcelona. The menus celebrate the centuries-old tradition of dining and drinking together in Tapas style. Whether it is seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, or the finest cheeses and charcuteries in Europe, the meal is shared by all.”

“Born and raised in Egypt, Chef Hany Ali had a passion for the culinary arts at an early age. While Chef Hany was born in Cairo, Egypt, he was raised in a coastal resort city named Hurghada. Hurghada, is best known for its beautiful white sand beaches, fresh seafood, and one of the most popular vacation spots with Europeans. It was an inspiration to a young Hany.”

“After graduation from the International Culinary Institute in Egypt, Chef Hany decided to travel through Europe and Asia exposing his palate to as many different types of cuisines as possible. This allowed him to broaden his talents as a chef and gave him the experience and knowledge needed to begin his career.”

“After over 13 years in the most highly regarded hotels and restaurants in the U.S. Hany found a home in the Temecula Valley Wine Country as the Executive Chef leading the culinary team at Ponte Winery. With a love for the valley, a deep appreciation for each ingredient, and a thirst for unique and thoughtful wine, he hoped his passion was palpable in every plate, sip and bite.”

“With all his many accomplishments, experiences, and rave reviews, Europa Village Wineries and Resort are pleased to have Chef Hany Ali as their Executive Chef and being part of a “food culture that respects local produce, farmers and ranchers.” He showcases that back-to-the-land reverence with farm-fresh valley produce — with some vegetables and herbs harvested just moments beforehand in the kitchen garden out back. But while the sourcing may be local, Chef Hany’s influences are global, resulting in flavorful, inventive border-crossing cuisine. He provides guests with the exceptional service, dedication, and immense love and passion for food that they have come to expect from Europa Village.”

We entice Chef Hany away from his busy kitchens for a chat.

Show 437, August 7, 2021: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part Two

Hany Ali of Europa Village

The well-traveled Hany Ali is the executive chef of Europa Village Wineries and Resort in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine country. His current primary area of responsibility (as the Resort expands with Italian and French winery estates in development) is overseeing the Spanish-accented cuisine at Bolero Restaurante & Cantina at Bolero at Europa Village as well as all the on-site catering and special events. Bolero Restaurante serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily as well as Sunday Brunch.

“Bolero Restaurante takes the guest on a culinary journey throughout the country of Spain—from the humble farm-to-table cuisines of Asturia, to the majesty of modern interpretations coming from San Sebastian or Barcelona. The menus celebrate the centuries-old tradition of dining and drinking together in Tapas style. Whether it is seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, or the finest cheeses and charcuteries in Europe, the meal is shared by all.”

“Born and raised in Egypt, Chef Hany Ali had a passion for the culinary arts at an early age. While Chef Hany was born in Cairo, Egypt, he was raised in a coastal resort city named Hurghada. Hurghada, is best known for its beautiful white sand beaches, fresh seafood, and one of the most popular vacation spots with Europeans. It was an inspiration to a young Hany.”

“After graduation from the International Culinary Institute in Egypt, Chef Hany decided to travel through Europe and Asia exposing his palate to as many different types of cuisines as possible. This allowed him to broaden his talents as a chef and gave him the experience and knowledge needed to begin his career.”

“After over 13 years in the most highly regarded hotels and restaurants in the U.S. Hany found a home in the Temecula Valley Wine Country as the Executive Chef leading the culinary team at Ponte Winery. With a love for the valley, a deep appreciation for each ingredient, and a thirst for unique and thoughtful wine, he hoped his passion was palpable in every plate, sip and bite.”

“With all his many accomplishments, experiences, and rave reviews, Europa Village Wineries and Resort are pleased to have Chef Hany Ali as their Executive Chef and being part of a “food culture that respects local produce, farmers and ranchers.” He showcases that back-to-the-land reverence with farm-fresh valley produce — with some vegetables and herbs harvested just moments beforehand in the kitchen garden out back. But while the sourcing may be local, Chef Hany’s influences are global, resulting in flavorful, inventive border-crossing cuisine. He provides guests with the exceptional service, dedication, and immense love and passion for food that they have come to expect from Europa Village.”

Chef Hany takes a break from his busy kitchens and rejoins us.

August 7: Birkholm’s Bakery & Café, Bolero Restaurante & Cantina, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Melissa’s Hatch Chiles

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Thomas Birkholm, Baker, Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe, Solvang Part One
Segment Three: Thomas Birkholm, Baker, Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe, Solvang Part Two
Segment Four: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part One
Segment Five: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part Two
Segment Six: Yvon Goetz, Executive Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Segment Seven: Robert Schueller of Melissa’s / World Variety Produce – “Prince of Produce”
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Birkholm’s Bakery & Café in Solvang was founded by Carl “Cookie” Sr. and Charlotte Birkholm in 1951. 2021 celebrates the 70th Anniversary of this local institution. The Birkholms have been baking as a family and passed from generation to generation. In 1980, Carl Jr. and Elizabeth Birkholm stepped in to carry on the tradition of baking in Solvang. Carl continues to use the original Danish recipes that “Cookie” brought over from Denmark. In 2012, son Carl “Thomas” returned to Birkholm’s and the Santa Ynez Valley with the desire to learn and continue the business like his Grandfather “FarFar” and Father had done before him. Thomas is the 3rd generation of Birkholm bakers in Solvang and with the Family he is carrying forward the proud Family tradition. 3rd generation baker Thomas Birkholm joins us rolling pin in hand.

The well-traveled Hany Ali is the executive chef of Europa Village Wineries and Resort in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine country. His current primary area of responsibility (as the Resort expands with Italian and French winery estates in development) is overseeing the cuisine at Bolero Restaurante & Cantina at Bolero at Europa Village as well as all the on-site catering and special events. Bolero Restaurante serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily as well as Sunday Brunch. “Bolero Restaurante takes the guest on a culinary journey throughout the country of Spain—from the humble farm-to-table cuisines of Asturia, to the majesty of modern interpretations coming from San Sebastian or Barcelona. The menus celebrate the centuries-old tradition of dining and drinking together in Tapas style. Whether it is seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, or the finest cheeses and charcuteries in Europe, the meal is shared by all.” We’ll meet Chef Hany Ali.

“As a celebration of the short Hatch Chile season, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is hosting an afternoon of ‘Roasting & Toasting’ on Saturday, August 14 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at its original Tustin location. Executive Chef Yvon Goetz and Chef de Cuisine James Chavez will be live roasting Melissa’s Hatch Chile Peppers and serving them up in a variety of unique dishes. Event attendees will be able to enjoy the hatch chile-focused dishes, along with beer, tequila and live music on The Winery’s recently expanded patio, situated in the heart of The District in Tustin.” Chef Yvon is our guest with Hatch Peppers in hand.

Robert Schueller of Melissa’s (our resident prince of Produce) presented two talks on the Culinary Stage in the OC Pavilion on Opening Day at the 2021 OC Fair. On the menu were California Specialty Fruit Crops and California Specialty Vegetable Crops. When Robert was with us last month we ran out of time before he could highlight California Vegetable Specialty Crops. We’ll pick up the conversation with that. Think heirloom tomatoes, purple Brussels sprouts, and variety cucumbers. Also it’s now the short, but always anticipated, fresh Hatch Chile Pepper season. Robert will talk about convenient area chile roastings and the publication of Melissa’s all-new Hatch Pepper Cookbook with over 100 inspiring (and home-kitchen tested) recipes.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain… “Regenerative agriculture” is very much in the news these days. The practice can actually help reduced the carbon footprint and replenish depleted soil as a growing medium which is a big positive. What’s it all about? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Thomas Birkholm of Birkholm's Bakery and Cafe

Birkholm’s Bakery & Café in Solvang was founded by Carl “Cookie” Sr. and Charlotte Birkholm in 1951. 2021 celebrates the 70th Anniversary of this local institution. The Birkholms have been baking as a family and passed from generation to generation. In 1980, Carl Jr. and Elizabeth Birkholm stepped in to carry on the tradition of baking in Solvang. Carl continues to use the original Danish recipes that “Cookie” brought over from Denmark.

In 2012, son Carl “Thomas” returned to Birkholm’s and the Santa Ynez Valley with the desire to learn and continue the business like his Grandfather “FarFar” and Father had done before him. Thomas is the 3rd generation of Birkholm bakers in Solvang and with the Family he is carrying forward the proud baking tradition.

All of Birkholm’s baked goods are made from-scratch using the original recipes. They are known for their Danish Butter Cookie Tubs containing nine varieties of cookies. On average they sell some 600 tubs per week.

Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe on Alisal Road remains family-owned and operated in picturesque Solvang promising to provide the personal touch “old-school.” “Committed to helping our customers achieve their sweet dreams with only the best to eat.”

3rd generation baker Thomas Birkholm joins us rolling pin in hand.

Hany Ali of Europa Village

The well-traveled Hany Ali is the executive chef of Europa Village Wineries and Resort in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine country. His current primary area of responsibility is overseeing the cuisine at Bolero Restaurante & Cantina at Bolero at Europa Village as well as all the on-site catering and special events. Bolero Restaurante serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily as well as Sunday Brunch.

“Bolero Restaurante takes the guest on a culinary journey throughout the country of Spain—from the humble farm-to-table cuisines of Asturia, to the majesty of modern interpretations coming from San Sebastian or Barcelona. The menus celebrate the centuries-old tradition of dining and drinking together in Tapas style. Whether it is seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, or the finest cheeses and charcuteries in Europe, the meal is shared by all.”

“Born and raised in Egypt, Chef Hany Ali had a passion for the culinary arts at an early age. While Chef Hany was born in Cairo, Egypt, he was raised in a coastal resort city named Hurghada. Hurghada, is best known for its beautiful white sand beaches, fresh seafood, and one of the most popular vacation spots with Europeans. It was an inspiration to a young Hany.”

“After graduation from the International Culinary Institute in Egypt, Chef Hany decided to travel through Europe and Asia exposing his palate to as many different types of cuisines as possible. This allowed him to broaden his talents as a chef and gave him the experience and knowledge needed to begin his career.”

“After over 13 years in the most highly regarded hotels and restaurants in the U.S. Hany found a home in the Temecula Valley Wine Country as the Executive Chef leading the culinary team at Ponte Winery. With a love for the valley, a deep appreciation for each ingredient, and a thirst for unique and thoughtful wine, he hoped his passion was palpable in every plate, sip and bite.”

“With all his many accomplishments, experiences, and rave reviews, Europa Village Wineries and Resort are pleased to have Chef Hany Ali as their Executive Chef and being part of a “food culture that respects local produce, farmers and ranchers.” He showcases that back-to-the-land reverence with farm-fresh valley produce — with some vegetables and herbs harvested just moments beforehand in the kitchen garden out back. But while the sourcing may be local, Chef Hany’s influences are global, resulting in flavorful, inventive border-crossing cuisine. He provides guests with the exceptional service, dedication, and immense love and passion for food that they have come to expect from Europa Village.”

We entice Chef Hany away from his busy kitchens for a chat.

Yvon Goetz of the Winery Restaurant and Bar

“As a celebration of Hatch Chile season, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is hosting an afternoon of ‘Roasting & Toasting’ on Saturday, August 14 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at its original Tustin location. Executive Chef Yvon Goetz and Chef de Cuisine James Chavez will be live roasting Melissa’s Hatch Chile Peppers and serving them up in a variety of unique dishes. Event attendees will be able to enjoy the hatch chile-focused dishes, along with beer, tequila and live music on The Winery’s recently expanded patio, situated in the heart of The District in Tustin.”

“I always look forward to hatch peppers being in season – they deliver a great balance of flavor and heat, and get my creative juices flowing,” commented Goetz, who revealed that each event guest will go home with fresh Hatch Peppers from Melissa’s, as well as their all-new Hatch Pepper Cookbook to help guide them in creating dishes at home. “One of the highlights of this event is live roasting the hatch peppers – this method adds a smoky flavor to the chile as the sugars in the pepper caramelize. Delicious.”

“Space for this event is limited and tickets are $55+ per guest. Ticket price includes Hatch Chile featured dishes, select beer and tequila, a copy of Melissa’s Hatch Pepper Cookbook, and a Melissa’s tote filled with fresh hatch peppers. All tickets must be purchased in advance by calling The Winery Restaurant in Tustin at 714-258-7600.”

“The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create an elevated dining experience. Located at The District in Tustin, overlooking the Marina in Newport Beach, and at Westfield UTC in La Jolla, The Winery culinary team is led by Executive Chef & Partner Yvon Goetz.”

Chef Yvon is our guest with Hatch Peppers in hand.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA Studio

Robert Schueller of Melissa’s (our resident prince of Produce) presented two informative talks on the Culinary Stage in the OC Pavilion on Opening Day at the 2021 OC Fair. On the menu were California Specialty Fruit Crops and California Specialty Vegetable Crops. When Robert was with us last month we ran out of time before he could highlight California Vegetable Specialty Crops. We’ll pick up the conversation with that. Think heirloom tomatoes, purple Brussels sprouts, and variety cucumbers.

Also it’s now the short Hatch Chile season. Robert will talk about area chile roastings and Melissa’s all-new Hatch Pepper Cookbook with over 100 inspiring (and home-kitchen tested) recipes.

Melissa’s Produce is featured in many cooking demonstrations on the Main Stage in the OC Pavilion, the site of the major culinary happenings. For the run of The Fair (through August 15th) they will be showcased in the Rare Fruit Growers exhibit located in the Centennial Farms area.

Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Chef Andrew is continually updating us on the real impact of the Covid-19 crisis in the hospitality field and what we, as diners, can do to support the continued survival of restaurants during the initial, highly fluid stages of the hoped-for recovery. Genuine concerns remain…

“Regenerative agriculture” is very much in the news these days. The practice can actually help reduced the carbon footprint and replenish depleted soil which is a big positive. What’s it all about? We’ll “Ask the Chef.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Thomas Birkholm, Baker, Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe, Solvang Part One
Segment Three: Thomas Birkholm, Baker, Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe, Solvang Part Two
Segment Four: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part One
Segment Five: Hany Ali, Executive Chef, Europa Village Wineries and Resort Part Two
Segment Six: Yvon Goetz, Executive Chef & Partner, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Segment Seven: Robert Schueller of Melissa’s / World Variety Produce – “Prince of Produce”
Segment Eight: Co-Host Chef Andrew Gruel of the Slapfish Restaurant Group with “Ask the Chef”