Cream of the crop!

Two Cork food producers were honoured at the Euro-Toques Ireland Food Awards held in Cavan recently.

Glensallagh Gardens and Bumblebee Flower Farm were among the eleven businesses recognised across six categories at the ceremony hosted by Cork-based food writer Caroline Hennessy and chef Richard Corrigan.

Bumblebee Flower Farm won the land award for its sustainably produced edible flowers, grown in respect of biodiversity.

Based on two and a half acres of land just outside Drimoleague in West Cork, florist Mags Riordan started growing organic edible flowers as a commercial crop in 2015. Ireland’s first dedicated edible flower farm, it has the largest selection of unique flavours and varieties.

Glensallagh Gardens was acknowledged in the craft category for its eco friendly and varied vegetable production.

Richard Speir of Glensallagh Gardens in Ballydehob specialises in Chinese, Japanese, Italian and Mexican salads and brassicas and a host of other unusual vegetables from around the world, selling produce to local restaurants and cafes.

Established in 1996 by the Euro-Toques Ireland Food Council, based on an original idea by Myrtle Allen, the awards are held annually to celebrate the best food being produced in Ireland.

Anthony O’Toole, Head of the Council said: “As chefs, this is our opportunity to continue what Myrtle Allen started many years ago and celebrate those who grow, farm and produce with integrity and flavour in mind.

“Our congratulations to all recipients, whom we welcome to the Euro-Toques Ireland community. We will continue to encourage all our fellow chefs to support current and previous winners through their menus.”