Nothing says Alberta like a feast of pig, liver and rabbit, no-sir-ree. There was all of that and more at the first Winter Solstice Dinner hosted by local culinista Valerie Rogers-Lugonja, and her husband Vanja. I’m lovin’ Alberta right now which is a good thing considering winter began only three weeks ago.

The hosts graciously supplied a 40 pound roasted piglet and a smorgasboard of appetizers while Slow Food Edmonton members pitched in by bringing dishes for a potluck style meal. There were delectable little frittatas made with Greens Eggs and Ham’s duck eggs, a very interesting Mung Bean Stew (who knew?), and an array of vegetable dishes that included heritage greens and sweet beets (again from Greens Eggs and Ham), a scrumptious squash dish, sausage risotto, and a counter overflowing with Alberta cheeses, artisanal breads and more. This wasn’t your grandma’s potluck.

The little roasted piggie wasn’t the only star of the show. Valerie makes some incredible spiced yogurt balls and those little morsels spread over a piece of Vince and Colleen’s wood oven baked bread topped with a swack of roasted peppers was just ridiculously good.

If you’re still pondering joining Slow Food Edmonton, ponder no longer. Go here to join, there are some great events coming up. If you’re the type of person who’s always looking for an excuse to eat great food, you’re going to like what Edmonton’s convivium does.
More info on the Winter Solstice Dinner can be found at fellow blogger sites: Canadian Foodie, and  Only Here for the Food. Happy reading and happy eating! Enjoy.