Discover how Chef Christina Ng brought ancient grains to life in her partnership with Revival Einkorn.
As we step into 2025, I find myself reflecting on the culinary journey of the past year. As a chef, the dishes I’ve created, the events I’ve curated, and the connections I’ve made all tell a story of wins worth celebrating. Reviewing photos, emails with hosts, and memorable menus, I noticed a recurring theme: the most impactful moments always included delicious food, meaningful stories, and a connection that transcended the plate.
A Highlight of 2024: Coastal Roots Farm-to-Table Dinner
One of my most cherished experiences last year was being a guest chef at the Coastal Roots Farm-to-Table Dinner series in Encinitas, California. Coastal Roots Farm, which produces over 80,000 pounds of food annually through regenerative farming practices, brings the community together through nourishing meals and education about sustainable agriculture.
This event was a celebration of seasonal, local food, and I was honored to be part of it. Guests not only enjoyed freshly harvested produce but also learned about the cultivation practices behind their meals. It was a beautiful fusion of education and indulgence.
Discovering Revival Einkorn: A True Culinary Gem
A standout aspect of the evening was the collaboration with David and Razan of Revival Einkorn. Guests were introduced to einkorn—an ancient grain and the first wheat domesticated by humans over 14,000 years ago. The meal featured Revival Einkorn crackers paired with Eggplant Caponata and White Bean Hummus as the first course and ended on a high note with a dessert made from einkorn flour, served alongside fresh seasonal fruit.
Einkorn’s unique characteristics made a lasting impression on everyone:
- Historical significance: The grain’s origins trace back to the Neolithic era, offering a story as rich as its flavor.
- Sustainability: With its natural drought and pest resistance, einkorn thrives where other crops struggle.
- Digestibility: Unlike modern wheat, einkorn is gentler on the gut, making it a more inclusive option for many.
Einkorn: The Future of Regenerative Agriculture
What makes Revival Einkorn especially inspiring is their commitment to regenerative farming. Einkorn’s natural resilience—thanks to its protective hull and deep root system—supports soil health and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. It’s not just a grain of the past; it’s a hopeful glimpse into the future of sustainable agriculture.
As a chef, it was a privilege to help showcase the potential of this ancient grain to reconnect people with their food, the land it comes from, and the stories behind it.
Looking Ahead: Gathering Around the Table in 2025
Cooking is more than creating meals; it’s an act of care, compassion, and connection. The opportunity to inspire and inform through food, as I did with Revival Einkorn at the Coastal Roots dinner, is what fuels my passion.
As we embark on a new year, let’s make it a goal to gather, celebrate, and cultivate community around the dinner table. Whether it’s with loved ones or new friends, there’s no better way to connect than through sharing delicious food and meaningful conversations.
Here’s to 2025—a year of nourishment, connection, and inspiration.
