Preserving the Harvest with Caroline Ishii

Late September brings a flood of Ontario harvest vegetables to market stalls, but turning surplus produce into lasting pantry staples often feels intimidating. In this hands-on workshop at The Depanneur, acclaimed chef Caroline Ishii demystifies the art of root-to-shoot cooking, teaching simple, accessible preservation techniques that require no specialized pressure canners or boiling baths.

What You Will Make and Learn

Drawing on her background in Japanese culinary traditions and sustainable plant-based dining, Chef Ishii guides participants through techniques to transform often-discarded vegetable scraps—such as carrot tops, radish greens, and sturdy stems—into flavourful culinary essentials. During the session, you will prepare a vibrant root-to-shoot pesto, two distinct styles of Japanese-inspired quick pickles (*tsukemono*), and a seasonal fruit or vegetable preserve using peak local ingredients.

Beyond jarred items, the class explores straightforward domestic preservation methods including targeted freezing, quick curing, and drying. Participants are encouraged to bring clean reusable glass jars or containers to pack their creations home.

The Communal Tasting

Following the cooking portion, the group gathers around the communal table to enjoy their freshly prepared dishes alongside traditional homestyle accompaniments: comforting *yasai no misoshiru* (miso soup crafted with vegetable trimmings), fragrant *nameshi* (steamed rice with seasoned pickled greens), and warm *genmaicha* (roasted brown rice green tea).

About Chef Caroline Ishii

Chef Caroline Ishii is an award-winning chef, author, and educator best known as the founder and former executive chef of ZenKitchen, one of Canada’s earliest pioneering plant-based fine-dining restaurants. Her culinary philosophy centres on seasonal mindfulness, resourceful kitchen practices, and honouring the full lifecycle of whole foods.

Location and Details

The workshop takes place at The Depanneur's kitchen space at 192 Spadina Avenue, just north of Queen Street West in the heart of Chinatown and the Fashion District. The venue is easily reached via the 510 Spadina and 501 Queen streetcars.