Got it Sussed

The economic recession may actually be having a positive effect on the environment. As purses tighten, shoppers are looking for cheaper ways of living. Starting with the most important of all: food.

Contrary to popular opinion, buying local and organic food can be a cheaper way of living. Fresh local produce is reasonably priced as it's in season and doesn't have to travel far. And buying food by weight rather than pre-packed gives the consumer the choice of how much they actually want, causing less waste from both the food and the packaging.

As the economic downturn sets in, it is much cheaper to buy raw ingredients and cook up a healthy and cheap meal. This maybe common sense, but in today's world of fast food and ready meals, not many of us are taking the time to cook a wholesome family meal.

And eating organically in restaurants and cafes needn't be a drain on finances. Last night I attended the SUSSED Ethical Feast at Coast restaurant in Porthcawl. The ethical feast sourced produce that was local, organic and fairtrade where possible. Upon arrival we were all given a glass on Fairtrade wine, which was a brilliant Sauvignon Blanc and can be found at Co-op. After being taken to our tables, we were presented with canapes and a homemade seeded roll. But it was the starter that excited me: Swansea Bay Mussels served with a Mariniere sauce of garlic, onion and Welsh cream. The French wouldn't be disappointed with this Welsh alternative. The main course was a choice of Steamed Halibut Fillet with Candied Lemon, Potato & Truffle Puree, Steamed Swansea Cockles, Shellfish Bisque & Crispy Seaweed; Pan Roasted Organic Chicken Breast with Braised Leeks, Roasted Baby Potatoes & Perl Las Blue Cheese Sauce; or Creamy Wild Mushrooms with Linguini Pasta & Glazed Tintern Cheese, Green Herb Salad. Again I went for the fish, which was perfectly cooked and the creamy mash melted in my mouth. The tomato bisque was a perfect compliment to the white fish. The finale was only going to be one option for me: an Assiette of Chocolate; Warm Chocolate Cake, White Chocolate Ice cream, Chocolate Panacotta & Chocolate Sauce. So indulgent and completely divine. It was simply a taste of heaven in my mouth. Saying this, my companion went for the selection of Welsh cheeses of which were equally delicious. A perfect end to a pretty much perfect meal....or so we thought. Coffees were served with homemade biscotti and fairtrade petit fours and by the this time I was struggling to fit them in. But of course I managed.

The whole evening was an explosion of fresh flavours, textures and tastes. Whatever people say about organic and local produce, you really can tell the difference. When it comes to food, quality really does over ride quantity. Going back to my point earlier the whole night came to just £27.50. This just proves that organic food doesn't have to cost the earth.