Cynthia Simonds, of Newcastle, best known for her MPBN show “Fresh to Flavorful” and popular cook books “Fresh Maine Salads,” “Superb Maine Soups” and “Delicious Maine Desserts,” has been named an Honorary Chef of Maine by the Dept. of Agriculture and will represent the state at the 2011 Big E Agricultural Festival in Springfield, Mass.
Simonds’ work on “Fresh to Flavorful,” a cooking-magazine show that takes viewers behind the scenes of their local farmers, chefs, and food producers, earned her an invitation to cook for the Dept. of Agriculture’s legislative delegation at their annual end of session all-staff lunch.
Attended by both Gov. Paul LePage and Commissioner of Agriculture Walt Whitcomb, the luncheon featured such delicacies as Terra Optima Braised Pork with Brandied Cranberries and Cocoa-Dusted Dark Chocolate Chevre, a crowd favorite.
“They all made the yummy noise,” said Simonds, “That’s my favorite [noise] in the whole world.”
The meal also earned the praises of Gov. LePage, who commended Simonds for her work to promote Maine’s culinary heritage.
“The Governor is very supportive of what we do,” said Simonds.
Shortly after the lunch, Commissioner Whitcomb presented Simonds with a gift bag from the department as a token of appreciation. Tucked in the bottom of the bag, alongside an autographed photo of Simonds and her daughter Elizabeth with Gov. LePage, lay a folded shirt, embroidered with the Maine Dept. of Agriculture seal and the words, “Honorary Chef.”
“It blew my mind, “said Simonds, “It was such a sweet thing for them to do.”
The gift bag came with another honor: An invitation to represent the state of Maine at the Big E, the largest agricultural fair in New England.
Held every year in West Springfield, Mass., for 17 days, the Big E, or The Eastern States Exposition, is the de facto state fair for all six New England states. The event is one of the most well-attended in the Northeast: Last year over 1.2 million visitors passed through.
This year’s fair will feature performances by former Hootie and the Blowfish lead singer Darius Rucker, country stars Blake Shelton and Reba, and American rock band Cheap Trick.
Traditional events, such as the Avenue of States with replicas of each original New England state buildings, will be showcased alongside livestock contests, butter sculptures, and auto shows.
Simonds will prepare several cooking demos for guests during Maine Day at the fair. She plans to integrate some of Maine’s most famous products into her food, such as potatoes, blueberries, and lobster.
Each of her ingredients will be brought from Maine farms and stores, including maple syrup from Uncas Farm in Whitefield, lobster from Port Clyde Fresh Catch, and produce from Spear’s Farm in Waldoboro.
Through fresh ingredients and innovative cooking, Simonds hopes to show guests at the Big E what makes Maine cuisine unique.
“Maine has a certain cache, a certain intrinsic value, because there are people that care about food that is delicious and mindful,” Simonds said, “There is a strong connection between the food and the heart of Maine.”
Perhaps most importantly, guests will have a chance to try Simonds’ creations.
“I always make sure I have food for people that come and watch me cook,” said Simonds.
“I can’t promise I can feed everyone, but at least a few hundred,” Simonds added, laughing.
This year’s Big E is Sept. 16-Oct. 2, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children. Kids age five and younger are free.
“Fresh to Flavorful” airs Saturdays at noon on MPBN. It is currently in its second season.
