Category

What Chefs Want

Jul 28 2023
6

It’s Corn! 10 Unconventional Ways to Utilize Fresh Local Corn

By | Chef's Feed, Local, Produce, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

As summer arrives with its sunny warmth and vibrant flavors, there’s one star ingredient that dominates every farmer’s market and dinner table: fresh, local corn! At What Chefs Want, we believe in embracing creativity in the kitchen, and what better way to do so than by experimenting with this versatile golden gem? Get ready to embark on a cornucopia of fun and unique ideas that will have your restaurant patrons buzzing with excitement.

Spicy Corn Fritter Tacos

Transform traditional tacos into a fiesta of flavors with spicy corn fritter tacos. Whip up a batch of zesty corn fritters using locally sourced corn, diced jalapeños, and a blend of bold spices. Serve these crispy delights in soft tortillas topped with tangy lime crema and fresh avocado salsa for a mouthwatering explosion of tastes and textures.

Corn Popsicle Delight

Beat the summer heat with an unconventional treat: corn popsicles! Create a refreshing and surprising dessert by blending fresh corn kernels with coconut milk, honey, and a pinch of salt. Freeze the mixture into popsicle molds, and voilà – a sweet and savory delight that will have diners raving about your inventive dessert menu.

Corn and Basil Ice Cream

Take your ice cream game to the next level by infusing fresh local corn into a creamy basil ice cream base. The natural sweetness of the corn complements the aromatic notes of basil, resulting in a truly unique and sophisticated dessert that will leave your guests in awe.

Corn Ceviche

Add a twist to the classic seafood ceviche by incorporating charred corn kernels into the mix. Marinate fresh shrimp or fish with zesty lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, then toss in the corn for a burst of smoky sweetness that elevates this dish to new heights of flavor.

Corn and Chorizo Stuffed Peppers

Amplify the flavors of stuffed peppers by adding a corn and chorizo filling. Mix charred corn with spicy chorizo, black beans, and cheese, then stuff it into colorful bell peppers. Bake until tender and bubbling for a dish that packs a punch and showcases the delicious potential of fresh local corn.

Corn and Goat Cheese Croquettes

Combine the delightful creaminess of goat cheese with the satisfying crunch of corn croquettes. Blend locally sourced corn with tangy goat cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then fry to golden perfection. These delectable bites are sure to become a beloved appetizer at your restaurant.

Corn Dumpling Soup

Give traditional dumpling soup a summery makeover by adding corn dumplings. Mix cornmeal, eggs, and a dash of nutmeg to form dumpling dough, and drop spoonfuls into a flavorful vegetable broth. The tender dumplings and sweet corn make this dish a comforting and innovative addition to your menu.

Corn Pancake Stack

Brunch enthusiasts will flock to your restaurant for a delightful corn pancake stack. Blend fresh corn into pancake batter and cook until golden brown. Stack the pancakes high, alternating with layers of crispy bacon and drizzles of maple syrup, creating a sweet and savory tower that’s a feast for the eyes and taste buds.

Corn-stuffed Ravioli

Dazzle your guests with a corn-filled surprise by offering corn-stuffed ravioli. Create pillowy pockets of pasta filled with a delectable mix of corn, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs. Toss the ravioli in a luscious brown butter sage sauce for an unforgettable dish that celebrates the essence of summer.

Corn Sushi Rolls

Put a twist on sushi night with corn sushi rolls. Swap traditional nori seaweed sheets for soft corn husks and stuff them with sushi rice, avocado, cucumber, and fresh corn. Roll it all together and slice into bite-sized pieces for a sushi experience that’s both innovative and satisfying.

Search the What Chefs Want site for corn or search using item codes:

  • Bi Color Corn – item 20041
  • Yellow Sweet Corn – item 20047
  • Fresh Corn Kernel – item 17043
  • Shucked Corn on the Cob – item 17041
  • Corn Husk for Tamales – item 92208

Learn More

With these ten playful and imaginative ideas, you’re well-equipped to wow your restaurant’s diners with an extraordinary corn-centric menu. Embrace the abundance of summer corn and let your culinary creativity shine! What are you waiting for? It’s time to let the cornucopia of fun begin!
And not to end on a corny note, but if you need a little inspiration while cooking to celebrate all things corn, don’t forget about this little viral sensation: https://youtu.be/_caMQpiwiaU.

Jul 21 2023
4

Everything But the Booze: Elevate Your Restaurant’s Beverage Service with What Chefs Want

By | Beverages, Chef's Feed, Paper / To-Go, Purees, What Chefs Want

Get ready to shake things up and raise a glass! At What Chefs Want, we know that the devil is in the details when it comes to running a restaurant. From the perfect lighting to the mouthwatering menu, every element contributes to creating magic for your customers. But hey, let’s not forget about the bar service! We’re here to make sure your drinks are as extraordinary as your cuisine. That’s why we take pride in providing a comprehensive range of products that can transform your bar into a destination for exceptional libations. From paper products to skewers, mixers to garnishes, we offer everything you need to elevate your beverage service to new heights. Let’s dive into the categories we provide and explore how What Chefs Want can be your go-to partner for all your bar service needs.

Mixers

Creating delicious and refreshing beverages requires a wide range of mixers, and we have you covered. Our inventory includes Island Oasis drink mixes in a variety of flavors, ginger beer for those spicy favorites, and a selection of bloody mary mixes to appease even the most discerning taste buds. Additionally, we offer an assortment of juices, kombucha, many different flavors of syrups, and purees to unleash your creativity and craft unique and irresistible concoctions.

Speaking of purees, we currently stock Perfect Purees in meyer lemon, pineapple, pomegranate, prickly pear and strawberry and if you are looking for some summer cocktail inspiration, you can check out some of their recipes here.

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of the perfect garnish to enhance the flavors and presentation of your drinks. At What Chefs Want, we understand the importance of fresh and high-quality garnishes. That’s why we offer an array of options, including olives, cherries, and a selection of fresh produce. Edible flowers also add a delightful touch of beauty and elegance to cocktails, turning them into visually stunning and Instagram-worthy creations.

Skewers for Garnishes

Garnishes are the finishing touch that transforms a regular drink into a work of art. Our collection of skewers, made from bamboo and sugar cane, provides an elegant and eco-friendly way to present garnishes like fruits, olives, and more. Elevate your cocktails’ visual appeal and impress your patrons with these stylish and sustainable skewers.

Paper Products

While they aren’t as exciting as garnishes and mixers, no bar is complete without the essential paper products that keep things running smoothly. From high-quality napkins to sturdy straws, we offer a wide selection of paper goods that strike the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. With different sizes, colors, and materials available, you can find the perfect match for your establishment’s style and branding.

Summer Cocktail Inspiration

Ready to make one of the trendiest drinks of the Summer? This refreshing drink is built around St. Germain, giving it a light and invigorating flavor with hints of elderflower. Perfect for those who want a lighter and slightly sweeter alternative to Aperol, it’s no wonder TikTok creators are calling it the drink of Summer 23’.  

The Hugo Spritz

  • 5-6 mint leaves (item #40052)
  • .5 oz lemon juice  (item #99202)
  • .75 oz St. Germain or elderflower liqueur of choice
  • 3-4 oz prosecco
  • Ice
  • lemon wheel for garnish (item #10505)

Here’s how to make the light and refreshing Hugo Spritz:

  1. Muddle lemon juice and mint leaves in your glass
  2. Add desired amount of ice
  3. Add in St. Germain
  4. Fill up the rest of your glass with prosecco
  5. Garnish with lemon slice and/or mint leaves

Learn More

At What Chefs Want, we believe that a remarkable dining experience encompasses more than just exceptional cuisine. Elevating your bar service is crucial to leaving a lasting impression on your guests. With our wide range of paper products, skewers, mixers, and garnishes, we can be your one-stop-shop for all your bar service needs. From providing functional and stylish paper goods to offering a plethora of mixers and fresh garnishes, we are dedicated to helping you create a bar that stands out from the rest. Let What Chefs Want be your trusted partner in achieving excellence in every aspect of your restaurant, even beyond the kitchen.

To make it easy to shop our bar selections, we’ve created a feature list called Everything But the Booze. Click there to see a curated list of some of our best bar offerings!

Jul 14 2023
5

Burger Week, Local Sourcing and Inspiration: A Q&A with Catherine of Naïve and Nostalgic

By | Beef, Chef's Feed, Farm To Table, Local, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

With Cincinnati’s Burger Week wrapping up, and Louisville’s Burger Week ramping up, we are paying tribute to America’s beloved sweetheart – the Hamburger! This week we are featuring Louisville restaurants Naïve and Nostalgic Cocktail House, which have two different burgers featured for Louisville’s Burger Week.

We spoke with Catherine Mac Dowall, owner and operator of Naïve and Nostalgic. Catherine began her career in the restaurant industry over 16 years ago, working her way up the ladder from hostess, line cook and every job in between to becoming an Operations Manager for Michelin Star and James Beard Award-winning Chef Jose Andres. Catherine brought her passion for culinary excellence to Louisville in 2016, opening Naïve, starting as just a concept at a 10X10 tent at a farmers market. From its humble beginnings, Naïve has flourished into a thriving enterprise, including catering, wholesale services, and the brick-and-mortar restaurant. In February of this year, Catherine opened her second restaurant, Nostalgic. She is soon to be featured in a CNN documentary put on by Bobby Flay, so keep your eye out for Catherine!

WCW: Your menus at Nostalgic and Naïve are incredibly diverse. What makes something like Burger Week exciting to you?

This is our first burger week and we are excited about it! We’ve had a ton of success during Restaurant Week and Burger Week seemed like another opportunity to introduce ourselves to people who haven’t made it here yet. It’s a great approachable way for new people to experience us.

WCW: Can you tell us about any unique burger ingredients or flavor combinations that you’ll be featuring during Louisville Burger Week?

At Naïve we are featuring a really unique burger. It has two beef patties, a yuzu koshu aioli, basil relish and a ton of mozzarella cheese, all on a homemade sesame potato roll.  

At Nostalgic we are featuring a classic burger – our Smash Burger. It has two lacey thin beef patties with seared onions smashed into them, American cheese and burger sauce on a homemade sesame potato roll. It is such a classic burger, but the quality of the ingredients really make it special. It is one of our most popular menu items.

WCW: How important is the sourcing of meat for your burger creations, and what factors do you consider when selecting the best quality beef for your patties?

We just started serving beef at Naïve this year. We served nearly every other type of protein and our customer base was asking for it. We have always sourced very sustainably at the restaurant, using as many local ingredients as we possibly can to put really great seasonal dishes on the menu. So, when we added beef, working with Berry Beef and knowing they are local was important to us.
We brought that same philosophy to our new restaurant as well. I put a huge emphasis on doing things the right way, and the right way for me is supporting the local community.

Berry Beef is a cooperative model developed by Kentucky farmers to provide chefs and institutions with a consistent supply of regionally-raised beef.

Berry Beef cattle are raised on pasture their entire lives, eating a blend of grass and locally-grown grains. This produces the well-marbled cuts your customers love, while maintaining high animal welfare and environmental standards. Berry Beef is distributed exclusively through What Chefs Want to cities across the country.

Search Berry Beef in the app or item #26695

WCW:  Seeing how much you love local food, are there any specific local ingredients or flavors from Kentucky that you love to showcase?

We are currently obsessed with sorghum. It’s a really intriguing ingredient and so versatile!

You can find sorghum in Nostalgic’s Weisenberger Grits, Crispy Brussel Sprouts, Grilled Broccolini, and Sweet Tea Fried Chicken. You can also find sorghum on some of Naïve’s tasting menus.

If you are shopping the What Chefs Want app and are interested in sorghum, you can find Bourbon Barrel Foods Pure Cane Sweet Sorghum with item #93514

WCW:  Do you have a personal favorite burger combination or flavor profile that you always go for when you go out to eat?

It really depends on the mood I’m in. If I’m looking for something that is that comforting, I gravitate towards something I’ve had and know, but if I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll reach for something with ingredients that I’m not as familiar with or something where the preparation is unique.

WCW: Who are some of your biggest culinary inspirations?

My old boss, Jose Andres is a huge inspiration to me, not only for his culinary background, but for his business acumen. I truly admire him!

It’s hard to pinpoint a singular person or restaurant. With everyone online and at our fingertips, we can really see and explore what other restaurants and chefs are doing anywhere in the world. It never used to be that way.

I do love going out to the West Coast and trying all the different restaurants throughout LA. Gjelina Group is such a staple in LA and Rustic Canyon was doing some really interesting things that we pull inspiration from as well.

WCW: How do you stay innovative and ahead of the curve?

I believe in not taking your foot off the gas, because once you do, someone is right behind you to pass you. Always try to be creative, reinvent yourself and push your comfort zone and your customers comfort zones!

Learn More

Both Naïve and Nostalgic are open six days a week and have menus that change seasonally.

To visit their websites, peruse their menus and see their business hours, visit:

https://www.eatnaive.com/

https://www.eatnostalgic.com/

Jul 07 2023
3

Locally Grown, Delivered to You

By | Chef's Feed, Farm To Table, Local, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

In today’s globalized world, where products from around the world are readily available at our fingertips, it’s easy to overlook the significance of supporting local producers, especially when it comes to fresh produce. However, by prioritizing local sourcing, we not only embrace the unique flavors and freshness of our own regions but also foster a strong sense of community and sustainability.

Building Relationships with Local Farmers & Producers

In the heart of the Midwest, What Chefs Want has found a remarkable partnership with the Mennonite community farmers from Scottsville, KY. Hand-picking a wide variety of locally grown produce, the Hoover family behind H & H Farms provides What Chefs Want with more than 16 different types of produce. This collaboration not only showcases the remarkable diversity of our region but also highlights the vital role that local producers play in nourishing and enriching our communities.

In June, some of our What Chefs Want team members had the opportunity to visit with the Hoover family of H & H Farms. They enjoyed a gorgeous day on the farm, complete with a tour on a wagon pulled by draft horses, past fields of squash, zucchini, tomatoes, and watermelon. Our team was invited to eat lunch with the Hoover family in their home as we learned more about their family and the incredibly hard work that goes into producing the crops that go from their local farm to your tables.

Working with local farmers has many advantages for both the farmers and our business. H & H Farms will adjust their crops based on our needs, so when we saw a demand for more watermelon last year from our customers, they adjusted to grow more watermelon for us. They pick squash blossoms twice a week for us very early on the mornings that our truck is scheduled to pick up from them. This “right out of the field and onto our truck” dynamic is only made possible by working closely with local farms.

In addition to H & H Farms, the Scottsville, KY area is also home to the Miller family, who grow exquisite heirloom tomatoes. The Millers specifically cultivate and grow special varieties of their tomatoes to get specific colors, tastes and shapes. The family who produces Spring Valley Farms jams is just down the road as well.

Local Opportunities in Every Region

These are just a few of the MANY local producers that we partner with across the country. What Chefs Want works with local producers across all our different regions to provide our customers with fresh, local and seasonal produce.

Ready to Buy Local?

If you are in our ordering system and looking for local items, look for the green LOCAL tag:

Or use the local filter found in the left “filter by” column:

Local offerings will look different based on your location.

Jun 29 2023
3

Red, White and BBQ

By | Chef's Feed, Farm To Table, Local, Meats, Seafood, The Butchery, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

Grilling inspiration for your 4th of July menu

The 4th of July is just around the corner, and you know what that means—time to fire up the grill or smoker and give your customers a menu that sets off fireworks of flavor and leaves everyone craving more. That’s why we’re here to share our BBQ favorites, guaranteed to add sizzle and excitement to your holiday feast. From hand-cut, premium quality steaks to the freshest produce, we’ve got the ingredients that will inspire grilling greatness and create an unforgettable 4th of July experience.  

Center of the Plate Stars for the Grill

The sizzle and aroma of a perfectly grilled steak evoke a sense of anticipation and delight, as each bite offers a tender and juicy experience that is simply irresistible. Try one of our favorites, the Black Hawk Reserve Striploin. Black Hawk Farms cattle are selectively bred for intense marbling and robust flavor. (Search Item #26955)

Nothing says the 4th of July like a burger hot off the grill, but how can you take those burgers to the next level? It’s all about the quality of the beef itself. Try Berry Beef Burger Patties. Berry Farms dry ages their beef, allowing the natural flavors to be enhanced while making the meat more tender. (Search Item #26696)

While beef remains a favorite in star-spangled spreads, don’t overlook the incredible flavors of fish, which prove to be an excellent and delectable option for the grill as well.

It is wild caught salmon season, ensuring a steady supply of Sockeye Salmon and the perfect grilling companion, King Salmon. Sockeye salmon is known for its intense flavor and vibrant red color, while King salmon is revered for its large size, high fat content, and luxurious taste. (Search Item #28603)

Cobia, a versatile and delicious fish, is an excellent choice for grilling enthusiasts. With its firm and flavorful flesh, Cobia holds up well on the grill, allowing for various preparations and marinades to enhance its taste. (Search Item #48021)

Don’t Forget the Smoker

We can’t let the summer season start without a nod to the magic of smoked meat.

Smoking lamb neck or lamb shoulder creates a tender and flavorful culinary experience. The slow smoking process allows the lamb to develop a rich smoky aroma and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, resulting in a truly unforgettable dish. Freedom Run Farm Lamb is more tender and mild than virtually any other lamb available in the market today. (Search Item #62506 for lamb neck and #62502 for lamb shoulder)

Smoked beef brisket is a barbecue masterpiece that promises an explosion of smoky and savory flavors. We recommend smoking the Black Hawk Brisket. (Search Item #00336)

Produce that Pops on the Grill

Summer is the perfect season to showcase the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables on the grill. Grilling vegetables enhances their textures and creates a delicious char, elevating them to a whole new level of culinary enjoyment during the sunny and bountiful days of summer.

Grilling asparagus highlights the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of this versatile vegetable. With a slight char on the outside, grilled asparagus offers a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, making it a perfect side dish or addition to salads, pastas, or as a standalone appetizer. (Search Item #20000 for jumbo and #20005 for standard)

Broccolini and caulilini are excellent choices for grilling due to their unique attributes. Broccolini, with its tender stems and small florets, grills beautifully, developing a smoky flavor while retaining its crunch. The thinner stalks of caulilini allow for quick and even cooking on the grill, resulting in a delightful blend of charred and slightly sweet flavors. Both vegetables benefit from the grill’s heat, transforming into deliciously charred and caramelized delights that add a delightful twist to any summer meal. (Search Item #20012 for broccolini and #03643 for caulilini)

Sweet corn is in season as well, so don’t forget that it is a treat on the grill! (Search Item #20041)

Gourmet Goods to Enhance your Grill

Take your grilling to the next level by incorporating flavorful glazes. Elevate your dishes with the luscious sweetness of fig balsamic glaze, made by enriching balsamic vinegar of Modena PGI with fig juice, or indulge in the earthy richness of truffle balsamic glaze, infused with the aromatic essence of truffles. (Search Item #29869 for fig balsamic glaze and #29853 for truffle balsamic glaze)

Change your whole flavor profile with spices like ras el hanout or za’atar. A prized Moroccan spice blend, ras el hanout takes its name from an Arabic phrase that can be loosely translated as ‘top of the shop’, meaning the very best a spice merchant has to offer. Za’atar is a complex medley of seasonings is notable for its rich aroma and well-balanced curry-like flavor. It is an authentic Middle Eastern mix of herbs and spices, featuring sumac, thyme, oregano, sesame seeds and salt that is sure to add a new pop of flavor to your grilled favorites. (Search Item #97142 for ras el hanout and #97181 for za’atar)

Elevate your grilled fish with extra virgin olive oil with lemon or yuzu. The yuzu oil, a fantastic complement to grilled seafood, offers a refreshing twist as a versatile citrus substitute. (Search Item #18268 for EVOO with lemon and #95411 for yuzu oil)

What Chefs Want is Delivering Your Grilling Favorites

What Chefs Want has you covered with a selection of grilling favorites that will make your menu shine. From hand-cut steaks to the freshest seasonal produce, our premium quality ingredients are sure to elevate your summer menu and leave your guests craving more.

With split cases, daily delivery (even on the 4th!) and no minimum orders, we give chefs what they want and need to create summer menu magic.

*Not available in all regions – see website or app for more information.

Oct 19 2022
1

Item of the Day:  Cafiza Espresso Cleaner

By | Beverages, Chef's Feed, Cleaning Supplies, Coffee, Coffee Shop, Item of the Day, What Chefs Want

Cafiza Espresso Cleaner

Concentrated formula eliminates residue in group heads, valves and lines.

Foam and solubility balanced for powerful cleaning and optimal rinsing.

Integral to the daily backflush regimen.

Recommended for use with a wide range of traditional espresso machines. 

Check out this video! Cafiza Cleaner Overview.

Item 99319 – 12/20oz Case    

*Not available in all regions – see website or app for more information.

Oct 18 2022
1

Item of the Day:  4-Cup Carrier with Handle

By | Beverages, Chef's Feed, Coffee, Coffee Shop, Item of the Day, Organic, Paper / To-Go, What Chefs Want

4-Cup Drink Carrier with Handle

It’s the season for sharing warm drinks with friends, family, and co-workers!

Convenient and sleek, this 4 cup carrier is perfect for all of your take out beverage needs. Its 4 compartments accommodate a wide range of cup sizes, from 12 to 20 oz. Made from a moisture-resistant paperboard in a kraft color, bad weather is not a problem when your customers take their drinks to go.

Easily customize by adding a sticker!

Item 99542 – 250 Ct Case    

*Not available in all regions – see website or app for more information.

Oct 17 2022
1

Item of the Day:  Frothy Monkey Whole Wheat Bagels

By | Baking, Breads, Chef's Feed, Coffee, Coffee Shop, Item of the Day, Organic, What Chefs Want

Frothy Monkey Whole Wheat Bagels

Frothy Monkey has been a staple in the Nashville community since 2004. You can count on Frothy to deliver quality, creativity, and approachability in everything they create whether it be in one of their cafes, at their coffee roastery, or their bakery. Their relationships with farmers and others who care about where ingredients come from is at the center of who they are.

In true Frothy Monkey fashion, their bagels are made from simple, thoughtfully-sourced ingredients. Each bagel requires a three day process to achieve artisan perfection, and they use their Sourdough starter to yield a rich and deep flavor profile with a pleasant, lingering finish.

Frothy Monkey bagels have the perfect balance of flavor and texture. A Frothy Monkey bagel is delicious on its own, or served up toasted with cream cheese. With their soft, chewy texture and fantastic crust they also make a tasty sandwich even better.

Item 10569 – 12/6ct  Case   

*Not available in all regions – see website or app for more information.

Oct 13 2022
2

Item of the Day:  Minor Figures Organic Oat Milk

By | Beverages, Chef's Feed, Coffee, Coffee Shop, Item of the Day, Organic, What Chefs Want

Minor Figures Organic Oat Milk

Fall is the perfect time of year to cozy up in a coffee shop – or deliver a warm drink to a friend. Now is the time to make sure coffee shops are stocked with all their needs – like milk alternatives.

Enjoy the natural sweetness of oats over cereal, in a glass, or baked into your favorite coffee cake. Good source of lactose and soy-free calcium and vitamin D.

Organic, vegan, and kosher. Dairy-free, soy-free and gluten-free.

Item 03935 – 32oz Container  

*Not available in all regions – see website or app for more information.