Evening Series

Tastes of California

Reservations available from 5:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Events are held in the Commodity Council Room, 154 Eckles Hall.

Oct. 6, 2009

California has a rich and diverse cultural history. The Native Americans were the first residents to inhabit the region that is now known as California. The costal tribes utilized the abundance of the Pacific Ocean, while the mountain tribes worked the land and hunted wild game. Then in 1769 Junipero Serra established the first Spanish mission in modern day San Diego. Serra planted the first grape vines in California shortly after his arrival. Vineyards were limited to the Spanish missions until shortly after the California gold rush of 1849. This is how California got the nickname "The Golden State."

The gold rush brought immigrant workers from places such as Asia, Europe and South America. In addition to mining gold, immigrant workers were responsible for the completion of the transcontinental railroad connecting the east coast to the west coast. This surge changed the face of the California economy. It allowed for further development in manufacturing, shipping and banking in addition to farming. The ideal location for agriculture in California lies in the Central Valley. This valley is located between costal ranges and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Mountains form a barrier that protects the rich soil in the valleys from intense desert heat and the Pacific Ocean.

The Mojave, Colorado and Death Valley make up a triangle of deserts in Southern California. These deserts have a long growing season, abundant sunshine, fertile soil, and thanks to an extensive irrigation system, a sufficient water supply for agriculture.

California with its rich soil is host to a variety of fresh produce. For example California is the leading producer of asparagus, producing nearly 70% of the nations supply. Other vegetables grown in the region include tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, artichokes and olives. California is also a leading producer in grapes, avocadoes and kiwis. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are also common in California. Dairy production is the leading industry in The Golden State. They produce over $3 billion worth of dairy products each year. Monterey Jack is one of three cheeses invented in America and has its origins in California.

Beef was and continues to be a favorite entrée for residents of California ever since the Spanish brought cattle with them when they arrived in the 1700s. Seafood is also a popular choice in Californian cuisine due to a wide array and abundance of fish and shellfish from the Pacific Ocean.

Our menu was formed to reflect the major areas of California's cuisine. We wanted to make sure the different industries were represented in our dishes. The cheese plate gives you a sample of some of the different cheeses that California has to offer. Most of the vegetables and fruits used in the different menu items are native to the region. The entrees are traditional choices by Californians since the 1700s. A California wine is suggested with each menu item to help fulfill a complete California experience.

Tastes of California