In Mansfield, GA, Love is Love Farm cultivates more than just vegetables; their cooperative model and dedication to sustainable agriculture nourish both the local community and the palates of discerning chefs. This episode explores the farm's unique produce and its vital role in the farm-to-table ecosystem.

Love is Love Farm

Credit: Facebook.com/LoveisLoveFarm

Episode Title: Love is Love Farm: Growing Community and Cuisine

Summary:

In this episode host David Zelski accompanies Chef Duane Nutter on a trip to Love is Love Farm Cooperative Farm in Mansfield, Georgia. Chef Nutter, returning to Atlanta after a stint in Mobile, Alabama, aims to reconnect with local farmers and source fresh produce for his new restaurant, Southern National. The episode highlights Love is Love Farm's mission to provide sustainable, nutritionally dense food while supporting its community and worker-owners.

The farm, which started as a small operation, has expanded significantly through a partnership with the Conservation Fund's Working Farms Fund. Demetrius Milling, a worker-owner, guides Chef Nutter through the farm, showcasing their diverse produce, including bok choy, shishito peppers, eggplant, and unique items like Roselle. Chef Nutter shares his culinary vision and discusses how the farm's produce inspires his menu.

The episode emphasizes the strong relationship between chefs and local farmers, with Love is Love Farm prioritizing customer needs and growing specific produce to meet their demands. They also focus on sustainable practices, growing food in the traditional way, and providing quality produce to both restaurants and the local community through their CSA program and plant sales.

Chef Nutter and Demetrius discuss various produce, including the unique flavors of Roselle, the versatility of Japanese eggplant, and the often-misunderstood okra. They also touch on the farm's experimentation with different crops and their commitment to traditional farming methods. The episode concludes with Chef Nutter expressing his excitement about incorporating Love is Love's produce into his new restaurant, highlighting the mutual respect and shared values between the chef and the farmers.

 

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