New York: Unearthing the Flavors of the Sullivan Catskills with Bob Eckert

Global Journeys with Jill Dutton

In this captivating episode of Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, we embark on a culinary adventure through the picturesque Sullivan Catskills region of New York. Joining Jill is Bob Eckert, chef and proud owner of Northern Farmhouse Pasta, a culinary gem in the heart of the Sullivan Catskills.
"The Sullivan Catskills and mountains around here have soul; that, and my beautiful wife is what drew me to the area. Each village is a chapter, and the Catskills is a book with many chapters." - Bob Eckert
Bob proudly serves exclusively New York State-sourced wheat at his restaurant, celebrating the local farmers and their sustainable practices. As the conversation unfolds, Bob shares his expertise in foraging, divulging valuable tips and insights into wild ramps, mushrooms, and other seasonal treasures.
Throughout the episode, Jill and Bob paint a vivid picture of the Sullivan Catskills, showcasing its hidden gems, enchanting landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its residents. Together, they celebrate the unique blend of flavors, traditions, and stories that make this destination a true culinary haven.
HIGHLIGHTS

• Bob and Jen Eckert's journey of starting a pasta shop and eventually opening a restaurant
• Emphasis on using local ingredients and 100% locally grown wheat for pasta
• Quick overview of the Sullivan Catskills through rapid-fire questions and answers
• Discussion on the region's outdoor activities, particularly fishing
• Highlighting the year-round appeal of the region for outdoor activities
• Bob's tip for visiting the Sullivan Catskills: don't over plan, go with the flow, and engage with locals for recommendations
• Conversation on the quality of New York water and its impact on breweries and distilleries
• Jill Dutton's experience dining at Northern Farmhouse Pasta and highlighting two standout dishes: Wild Ramp and Prosciutto Flatbread, and Savory Oxtail Ragu
• Bob's insights on the use of wild ramps in dishes and the unique flavors they offer
• Bob's journey from construction to the culinary world and his passion for making pasta

RESOURCES:

• In this article, a recap of the podcast, Bob Eckert shares his Oxtail Ragu recipe: An Insider’s Look at the Sullivan Catskills: Foraging, New York Wheat, and the Flavors of the Region – Global Journeys with Jill Dutton
• Northern Farmhouse Pasta
• Visit The Catskills - NY State Getaway | Sullivan Catskills
• Catskill Fly Fishing Museum (cffcm.com)
• Upward Brewing Company | Livingston Manor, NY
• Catskill Provisions Artisanal Food from New York
• Catskills Hotel, Restaurant, Orchard & Cidery | Seminary Hill
• The Eldred Preserve
• Home - Antrim Streamside : Antrim Streamside
• Follow Jill's travels: Global Journeys with Jill Dutton
• Sullivan Catskills Itinerary: Savor th

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Kapitler

1. Intro to Sullivan Catskills (00:02:22)

2. Meet Bob Eckert (00:03:23)

3. Sullivan Catskills (00:05:03)

4. Wild Ramp Flatbread, Oxtail Ragu (00:09:52)

5. New York Wheat (00:15:02)

6. Foraging (00:21:53)

7. Sullivan Catskills: A Book with Many Chapters (00:27:50)