In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Chris Wysong from Bucket of Bread back to the show for an exciting update on his journey. After a year, Chris shares the evolution of his artisanal baking kits, which combine certified organic flours into easy-to-use boxes for creating everything from bread to bagels. With a focus on quality ingredients and a commitment to sustainability, Chris discusses the recent transition from buckets to box kits, making them more accessible for retail and pantry storage.

Listeners will be inspired by Chris's infectious passion as he details his experiences at the Wisconsin State Fair, where he showcased his products and received rave reviews. He also shares insights on his mission to combat hunger by donating a portion of profits to local food charities, highlighting the importance of community support. Join Courtney and Chris for a lively discussion filled with baking tips, product innovations, and heartfelt stories that celebrate the joy of homemade bread.

Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this episode is packed with ideas to elevate your culinary adventures with Bucket of Bread!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes David from Little Gardener Microgreens, diving into the vibrant world of microgreens. David shares his journey from a casual gardening enthusiast to a microgreens entrepreneur, detailing how a simple love for gardening blossomed into a thriving subscription-based business. With a focus on sustainability, he explains the process of growing these nutrient-dense greens in a small indoor setup, making it accessible for anyone interested in cultivating their own healthy produce.

Listeners will learn about the various types of microgreens David grows, including broccoli, radish, and sunflower, and discover their culinary versatility. He emphasizes the unique flavors and textures that microgreens can bring to everyday meals, from salads to smoothies, while also highlighting their impressive health benefits. David provides insights into the best practices for storing microgreens to ensure freshness and longevity, as well as tips for incorporating them into your diet.

Join Courtney and David for an enlightening conversation about the importance of fresh, local produce and the joy of sharing healthy food with the community. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this episode is packed with inspiration to elevate your culinary creations with the power of microgreens!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Clara from Clara Bakes to explore the delightful world of macarons and cakes. Clara shares her unique journey from baking as a child to becoming a successful cottage baker, revealing how a simple request from a colleague sparked her passion for creating beautiful confections. With a focus on macarons, Clara explains the intricate process of making these French treats, from perfecting the meringue to achieving that coveted 'foot' on each cookie.

Listeners will be captivated as Clara describes her creative approach to baking, including her love for making shaped macarons inspired by her artistic vision. She also discusses her offerings, which include cakes, cupcakes, and even mini bundt cakes, all customizable to suit clients' needs. Clara emphasizes the importance of flavor profiles and shares some of her favorite combinations, from chocolate sea salt caramel to maple brown sugar.

Join Courtney and Clara for an engaging conversation filled with baking tips, the challenges of working in a humid kitchen, and the joy of sharing delicious treats with the community. Whether you're a baking novice or an experienced pastry chef, this episode is sure to inspire your culinary adventures!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Mitch Weber, the owner and chef of Sagra, to discuss exciting changes and the evolution of his culinary journey. Mitch shares the thrilling news of welcoming a new Chef de Cuisine, Quinn Schrader, who will help take Sagra's kitchen to new heights. As they delve into the dynamics of running a restaurant, Mitch explains the intricacies of menu development, sourcing local ingredients, and the importance of flexibility in a seasonal kitchen.

Listeners will gain insight into the creative process behind Sagra's ever-changing menu, influenced by the freshest produce from local farms. From zucchini and kale to unique dishes like chicken ragu pasta, Mitch emphasizes the beauty of working with what’s available. He also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of managing a restaurant, including the recent acquisition of a new building and the expansion of their catering services.

Join Courtney and Mitch for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community support, and the joy of cooking with seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this episode is sure to ignite your passion for food and the culinary arts!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Dylan from the Kane Street Community Garden, part of the Hunger Task Force, to share insights on community gardening and food security. As a newcomer to La Crosse, Dylan brings a wealth of experience from his previous work in New Mexico, where he managed a nonprofit garden aimed at feeding the community. Together, they discuss the importance of fresh produce, the challenges of food insecurity, and how the community garden plays a vital role in addressing these issues.

Dylan explains the garden's operations, including the impressive goal of producing around 30,000 pounds of fresh produce each year and the unique buffet-style distribution model that allows community members to select their own vegetables. Listeners will learn about the variety of crops being cultivated, from peas to kale, and the significance of crop rotation and companion planting in maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.

As the conversation unfolds, Dylan shares tips for home gardeners, including the benefits of starting seeds indoors and the importance of soil health. He also highlights upcoming volunteer opportunities at the garden, encouraging families and individuals to get involved in planting, harvesting, and educational workshops. Join Courtney and Dylan for an enlightening discussion that not only celebrates the joys of gardening but also emphasizes the impact of community efforts in nourishing those in need.

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler invites her father, Terry Schallert, to celebrate Father's Day with a heartwarming discussion about their shared culinary memories. As they take a stroll down memory lane, Terry reflects on his role in the kitchen while raising Courtney and her siblings, revealing how his creativity and love for cooking shaped her passion for baking.

The duo shares delightful anecdotes, including the creation of the infamous "Paper Plate Chicken," a dish that showcases Terry's improvisational skills and Courtney's childhood memories. Listeners will also hear about the laughter-filled moments of cooking lessons that doubled as self-defense training, blending fun with essential life skills.

As the episode unfolds, Courtney and Terry dive into their favorite recipes, from classic peanut butter balls, perfect for holiday gatherings, to versatile chicken dishes that can be adapted for various cuisines. With practical tips on marinades and sauces, including a flavorful Asian marinade that doubles as a teriyaki sauce, this episode is packed with inspiration for home cooks looking to elevate their meals.

Join Courtney and Terry for a delightful conversation filled with humor, nostalgia, and delicious recipes that will inspire you to create lasting memories in your kitchen. Don't miss out on this special Father's Day tribute!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by Megan and Austin from Le Chateau to discuss the exciting changes and culinary innovations happening at this upscale dining destination. Megan shares her transition from food truck and catering to the world of fine dining, revealing her multifaceted role in the kitchen and front of house. Meanwhile, Austin, the bar manager, dives into the meticulous process of crafting a unique bar menu that elevates the cocktail experience, including labor-intensive drinks that are sure to impress.

Listeners will get an inside look at the creative cocktails coming to Le Chateau's terrace, including a vegan egg white foamer and a delicious pisco sour riff. Austin explains the philosophy behind the bartender's choice, a personalized drink experience designed to surprise and delight guests. The episode also covers the importance of a welcoming atmosphere, debunking the myth that fine dining is only for special occasions. With a commitment to collaboration and community engagement, Megan and Austin are redefining the dining experience in La Crosse.

Join Courtney, Megan, and Austin for an engaging conversation filled with insights into the culinary world, innovative cocktail creations, and the warm, inviting spirit of Le Chateau. Don't miss out on the chance to discover your new favorite dining spot!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by Micah Rupprecht and Isaac Wilde from Kwik Trip to explore the exciting new food offerings hitting their stores this summer. As the R&D chef, Isaac reveals the latest creations, including two new frozen pizzas—“Queued Up” BBQ Chicken and “Giddy Up” Chicken Bacon Ranch—set to tantalize taste buds with playful names and innovative flavors.

Listeners will get an insider's look at how Kwik Trip is elevating their pizza game, with a focus on quality ingredients sourced locally in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The conversation dives into the creative process behind new menu items like the Spicy Chicken Pizza, Jalapeno Popper Pizza, and even the dream of a Reuben Pizza. Additionally, Isaac shares details about the new yogurt-based parfaits and dessert cups, including a Black Raspberry Yogurt Parfait and a Strawberry Shortcake Dessert Cup, designed to satisfy sweet cravings.

As the episode unfolds, Micah discusses the Hot Spot menu, highlighting the introduction of a mouthwatering Patty Melt and the popular Chicken Quesadilla, emphasizing the importance of convenience and quality in grab-and-go meals. With a commitment to sourcing ingredients locally and innovating every season, Kwik Trip is making waves in the food service industry. Join Courtney, Micah, and Isaac for a deliciously informative episode that will leave you eager to try all the new offerings at your local Kwik Trip!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with her husband, Barry Vaaler, to kick off grilling season just in time for Mother's Day! As the weather warms up, Barry shares his grilling expertise, discussing the best equipment, flavor combinations, and techniques to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.

Listeners will learn about the benefits of using a wood pellet smoker and how mixing different types of wood pellets can enhance the flavor of meats. Barry reminisces about the nostalgic smells of grilling and shares tips for achieving perfect grill marks on everything from burgers to country-style ribs. The conversation also touches on the importance of patience when grilling and the art of wrapping meats in bacon for added flavor.

With Mother's Day around the corner, Courtney and Barry brainstorm delicious meal ideas to impress mom, from succulent steaks to mouthwatering shrimp skewers. They emphasize the significance of thoughtful cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this episode is filled with practical advice and inspiration to help you celebrate mom in style!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Teri Market, a personal trainer and competitive powerlifter, to discuss the intricate relationship between food, fitness, and moderation. Teri, a self-proclaimed "fit foodie," shares her journey of navigating the balance between enjoying food and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Together, they explore the challenges of sticking to nutrition goals amidst the abundance of food-centric celebrations common in Midwest culture.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the concept of counting macros and how it can provide flexibility in meal planning without sacrificing enjoyment. Teri explains the importance of understanding protein intake, the science behind macronutrients, and how to make informed choices when it comes to food. The duo also addresses the often misunderstood idea of "cheat days," emphasizing the significance of avoiding guilt around food and instead fostering a healthy relationship with eating.

As they dive deeper into practical tips and strategies, Teri highlights the importance of strength training, the role of food scales in portion control, and how to adapt nutritional habits based on individual goals. Whether you're looking to lose weight, gain strength, or simply maintain a balanced diet, this episode is packed with expert advice that will inspire listeners to rethink their approach to food and fitness. Join Courtney and Teri for an engaging conversation that blends nutrition knowledge with a passion for food!

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