What’s Cookin’? Genisys Credit Union Farmers Market Cooking Demos Return in 2022

For the second year in a row, Taste the Local Difference is partnering with Genisys Credit Union and local chefs to organize chef-led cooking demonstrations at four farmers markets in Southeast Michigan. Between July 16 to October 22, we will host 12 demos at the Rochester, Royal Oak, Plymouth, and Oakland County Farmers Markets. 

Demonstrating chefs will combine ingredients available at the market to inspire market goers while they shop. Chefs will share classic recipes and techniques, but these chefs have a lot of tricks hidden up their sleeves and under their hats, so don’t be surprised if they highlight a new piece of produce or other Michigan product.

“Our hope is that market goers become inspired to cook with local ingredients; strengthening the relationship between food & community,” says Jackie Buchanan, President & CEO of Genisys Credit Union.

What’s Cookin’ Demo Schedule

The Chefs

  • James Beard Nominated-Chef Omar Anani. Owner and chef at Saffron De Twah on Detroit’s east side. Known for his contemporary and Halal Moroccan food, Chef Omar is also a leader in his community and the restaurant industry.
  • Sam Van Buren – Co-owner of Detroit Soul. Soon to open a second location in the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood, Detroit Soul’s 8 mile location has become a bastion of delicious and comforting favorites.
  • The team at Parker Grant will also be showing off their culinary chops. The Rochester based caterer and events company has a broad network of talented chefs and cooks who will bring their flair to demonstrations.

See the schedule and find the recipes shared on the Taste the Local Difference website.

Find more information about the 12 scheduled demos at the Genisys Credit Union (@GenisysCU) and Taste the Local Difference (@localdifference) Facebook Pages under Events.

Paul Green is the Local Food Retail Specialist at Taste the Local Difference. He is based in Detroit.