Mill Road Elementary School students had a chance to taste a new roll produced in the Hudson Valley by local farmers, straight from the baker himself.
The students during their lunch periods Thursday were treated to a taste testing organized by district food supply partner Community Food Works.
The 100% whole wheat roll – which is not yet a part of Red Hook’s lunch menus but could be added based on student reaction – incorporates ingredients from several local farms with a recipe from baker Aaron Quint of Kingston Bread + Bar, who was on hand Thursday to serve the students.
Community Food Works already supplies several items and ingredients used on Red Hook’s menus, including tortillas and flour. The Kingston-based organization buys crops from farms across the region before processing them into flour, tortilla, bread and other prepared foods, and distributing them to, among other place, local schools and food pantries.
The tasting was in line with the Red Hook Central School District’s emphasis on locally sourced food and Food Services Director Sam Pride’s focus on educating students regarding healthy foods and knowing where it comes from.
The bread was available both buttered and plain, as were a deep selection of stickers which were, to the youngest students, equally desirable. As they handed out the bread, Quint and Community Food Works’ Celeste Yglesia engaged with the students by asking about what they know about where their food is produced, emphasizing the rolls were grown and created close to home.
Overwhelmingly, the students gave their approval of the bread by posting a star or happy face sticker on a rating board posted next to the table.
But, don’t worry – there were more stickers for the kids to take home.