In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Sarah, the enthusiastic owner and head chef of Patty Smashers and Shakes, a vibrant food trailer serving up delicious burgers and shakes in the Coulee Region. Sarah shares her journey from working in commercial kitchens to launching her food trailer, which officially opened in December 2022. Listeners will be intrigued as Sarah discusses her passion for local ingredients, sourcing beef from her family's farm and vegetables from nearby growers. She emphasizes the importance of quality and freshness in her dishes, even explaining her unique use of beef tallow for frying, which adds a rich flavor to her offerings. Sarah's commitment to supporting local farmers shines through as she shares insights on the challenges and joys of running a food trailer. Throughout the episode, Sarah reveals her creative process for developing a seasonal menu, including fan favorites like the Wisco Smash burger topped with provolone and cheese curds, and her plans for future specialty burgers. Join Courtney and Sarah for a lively and entertaining conversation about the food scene in the Coulee Region, the art of cooking, and the joys of entrepreneurship in the culinary world. For more information and to follow Sarah's culinary adventures, visit Patty Smashers and Shakes on Facebook and keep an eye out for her food trailer around town!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Reagan, the passionate owner and manager of Milk and Honey Espresso Bar in Westby, Wisconsin. As the first business from Westby featured on the show, Reagan shares his inspiring journey from aspiring chef to coffee shop owner, revealing how a love for coffee and community shaped his vision for the café. Listeners will be captivated by Reagan's story of how a childhood passion for cooking evolved into a deep appreciation for coffee culture. He discusses the unique name of his espresso bar, inspired by a biblical reference and his favorite honey latte, and how he strives to create a welcoming space for customers to relax and connect. Throughout the episode, Reagan shares insights from his first year in business, including the importance of consistency, building relationships, and prioritizing personal well-being as a business owner. He also highlights the shop's commitment to quality, sourcing local ingredients, and crafting delicious food items that complement their exceptional coffee offerings. Join Courtney and Reagan as they dive into the details of signature drinks like the stunning Honeycomb Cloud latte and the Dalgona whipped coffee, along with a menu full of healthy, homemade options. This episode is a delightful exploration of the intersection of coffee, community, and culinary creativity that will inspire listeners to visit Milk and Honey Espresso Bar and experience it for themselves!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Daisy from Daisy's Corner, a charming cottage bakery specializing in sourdough bread. Daisy shares her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the Coulee Region, detailing how her personal health challenges led her to explore the world of sourdough. With a unique perspective on gluten sensitivity, she discovered that sourdough could be a delicious solution. Listeners will be intrigued as Daisy explains her meticulous baking process, emphasizing the importance of long fermentation and organic ingredients. She discusses her rotating menu of specialty loaves, including flavors like pecan cranberry, jalapeño cheddar, and even a surprising pumpkin sourdough. Daisy also highlights her popular sourdough chocolate chip cookies, which incorporate her starter for added depth of flavor. Throughout the episode, Daisy shares insights into the local farmers markets where she sells her goods, the challenges of managing a small-scale bakery, and her vision for a cozy coffee shop that fosters community connections. Join Courtney and Daisy for a delightful conversation that celebrates the art of baking and the joy of sharing homemade treats!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Dr. Patty Bartsch, a traditional naturopath from Naturally Unbridled Wellness. Dr. Bartsch shares her fascinating journey from the biotechnology industry to holistic health, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in achieving overall wellness. With a wealth of knowledge in natural health modalities, she explains how she guides clients on their path to wellness, focusing on nutrition, homeopathy, and lifestyle changes. Listeners will be captivated as Dr. Bartsch discusses the significant impact of diet on health, revealing how simple changes can lead to remarkable improvements in conditions such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and even diabetes. She shares practical tips for meal prepping, making healthy eating accessible for busy individuals and families. From delicious frittatas to creative casseroles, Dr. Bartsch provides inspiration for incorporating whole foods into your diet. Throughout the episode, Courtney and Dr. Bartsch delve into the holistic approach to health, discussing the mind-body connection and the importance of addressing emotional well-being alongside physical health. This engaging conversation is packed with insights and practical advice that will empower listeners to take charge of their health through better nutrition and lifestyle choices. Join Courtney and Dr. Bartsch for an enlightening episode that will inspire you to explore the world of naturopathy and make healthier choices in your kitchen!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes back Sy Fix, the owner and pizza expert at Saxon Hall in Brownsville, Minnesota. Sy shares exciting updates about the menu, including the addition of the Mc Saxon pizza, a unique Thousand Island-based creation that has quickly gained popularity. Listeners will also learn about the new 8-inch personal pan pizzas, perfect for kids or those looking for a smaller portion. With Summer here, Sy discusses the vibrant beer garden at Saxon Hall, complete with a fire pit and a lovely atmosphere for enjoying pizza and drinks outdoors. He shares stories about the community's love for the space, including the ability to bring dogs along, making it a perfect spot for pet owners to relax while enjoying delicious food. Throughout the episode, Sy dives into the extensive pizza offerings, from the German Sherman topped with sauerkraut and kielbasa to the popular deluxe and all-meat pizzas. He explains the variety of sauces available, including garlic butter and ranch, and how customers can customize their pizzas with a wide range of toppings. Join Courtney and Sy for a fun and informative episode that will make you crave pizza and inspire you to visit Saxon Hall. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this episode is packed with insights that will enhance your next dining experience!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Olivia Jones, the talented owner and baker behind Heritage Bakes, a delightful micro bakery specializing in sourdough. Olivia shares her journey into baking, which began just before the pandemic, and how her passion for natural ingredients led her to create a thriving business right from her home kitchen. Listeners will be fascinated as Olivia discusses the intricacies of sourdough baking, including her unique fermentation process that enhances flavor and digestibility. She reveals her popular bread offerings, from classic garlic and herb to creative combinations like jalapeño cheddar and goat cheese with sun-dried tomatoes. Olivia also touches on her commitment to using organic ingredients and the importance of quality in her baking. Throughout the episode, Olivia shares anecdotes about her adventures at local farmers markets, where she connects with the community and offers her delicious baked goods. She also talks about the joys and challenges of balancing her baking business with motherhood, providing insight into the life of a dedicated home baker. Join Courtney and Olivia for a fun and informative episode that will inspire you to explore the world of sourdough and support local businesses. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or simply looking for delicious treats, this episode is sure to whet your appetite!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Kevin Millard, the news director for WISM News, who has recently returned from an exciting trip to London. Kevin shares his culinary adventures, debunking the myths surrounding British cuisine and highlighting the delightful dishes he discovered, from traditional full English breakfasts to the iconic fish and chips paired with mushy peas. Listeners will be intrigued as Kevin recounts his experiences navigating the bustling streets of London, sampling everything from sausage rolls to gourmet burgers. He reflects on the surprising variety of dining options available, including charming bakeries and vibrant food markets, and even shares a humorous story about his quest to try McDonald's across the pond. Throughout the episode, Kevin emphasizes the rich history and culture of London, discussing the unique dining experiences he encountered, including a memorable meal in the crypt of St. Paul's Cathedral and the stunning cafeteria at the Victoria and Albert Museum. He also touches on the differences in dining etiquette, including how the UK restaurant scene prioritizes food allergies and the absence of tipping culture. Join Courtney and Kevin for an entertaining and informative episode that will transport you to the heart of London and inspire your next culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, this episode is packed with tips and insights that will enhance your appreciation for British cuisine!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler chats with Efer Christopherson, the passionate owner of MF Coffee Roastery in La Crosse. Efer shares his incredible journey from Peru, where his family are coffee farmers, to becoming a coffee roaster in the Coulee Region. Listeners will be captivated by Efer’s story of resilience, as he navigated health challenges and pursued his dream of bringing specialty coffee to the local community. Throughout the episode, Efer delves into the intricate process of coffee roasting, explaining the anatomy of a coffee bean and the various methods of processing, including washed, natural, and honey processes. With a wealth of knowledge, he breaks down the roasting phases and highlights how different beans and roasting techniques can affect flavor profiles, from fruity to chocolaty notes. Listeners will also learn about the diverse range of coffees available at MF Coffee Roastery, including unique blends and single-origin offerings from Peru, Colombia, and Indonesia. Efer emphasizes his commitment to educating the community about coffee, ensuring that everyone can appreciate the nuances of their favorite brews. Join Courtney and Efer for an enlightening and flavorful episode that will deepen your appreciation for coffee and inspire you to explore the world of specialty brews. Don't miss out on this chance to learn from a true coffee enthusiast!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with the dynamic duo behind the Coulee Lemon Co., Gail and Michaela. Celebrating nearly a year in business, these two entrepreneurial moms share their journey from a TikTok-inspired idea to a thriving lemonade stand that offers fresh, dye-free drinks made from locally sourced ingredients. Listeners will be delighted as Gail and Michaela discuss their unique approach to lemonade, highlighting their commitment to clean ingredients and customer satisfaction. They share the story of how they quickly transitioned from a basic table setup to a fully equipped trailer that allows them to serve their refreshing beverages at various local events, including farmers markets and community gatherings. Throughout the episode, the pair reveals their delicious drink offerings, including fan favorites like the Strawberry Fields and Lemon Colada, and even some creative “dirty drinks” that blend sparkling water with fruity flavors. They also emphasize the importance of collaboration over competition in the local food scene, sharing insights on how they’ve built relationships with other food vendors. Join Courtney, Gail, and Michaela for an engaging and fun-filled episode that will leave you craving a cup of their refreshing lemonade! Be sure to catch them at local events this summer and support their mission to provide enjoyable, inclusive experiences for all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes the talented Sarah Burns, owner of Omega Bakery in Holman. Sarah shares her inspiring journey of transforming her passion for baking into a thriving dedicated gluten-free bakery, where she specializes in allergy-friendly treats that everyone can enjoy. Listeners will be captivated by Sarah's commitment to quality and safety, as she discusses her meticulous processes for preventing cross-contamination in her kitchen. With a wealth of knowledge about gluten-free baking and allergy considerations, Sarah also reveals some entertaining baking mishaps that have shaped her approach to perfection in her craft. As the farmer's market season kicks off, Sarah provides a detailed rundown of the markets where Omega Bakery will be showcasing their delicious offerings. From gourmet cookies and scones to personal cakes and protein cookies, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Sarah even introduces her new protein cookie line, perfect for those looking for a tasty post-workout snack. Join Courtney and Sarah for an engaging episode filled with baking wisdom, heartfelt stories, and a sneak peek into the exciting events and farmers markets where you can find Omega Bakery's delectable treats this summer!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.