Q&A with the new Head Chef at The Double H Ranch, James Bender.
Early this year, Heroes and Horses welcomed James (Jim) Bender as our new Head Chef at The Double H Ranch. Jim has been busy building a robust menu for our 2023 season that highlights our Anti-Inflammatory Diet. We sat down with Jim to discover what inspires him and learn more about his journey to becoming Head Chef.
H&H: What inspired you to become a chef?
Jim: Escoffier and The Larousse Gastronomique, amongst many other books. I find inspiration in the raw ingredients. The delicate nature of some. On the contrary, the heartiness of others. Distinguishing different applications in the process.
H&H: Who inspires you in the culinary world and why?
Jim: Thomas Keller and his French Laundry concept. Not the price points, but locally sourced as an alternative to on-property gardening and humane raising of healthy animals.
H&H: What do you love to cook when you’re at home?
Jim: Anything fresh, local, or that I grow. At home, it is always best when others cook!
H&H: In your opinion, what are the three must-have items that each kitchen should have?
Jim: Proper equipment, clean ingredients, and respect for everything and everyone involved.
H&H: What attracted you to Heroes and Horses?
Jim: The Anti-Inflamatory - Whole food concept along with the healthy living lifestyle.
H&H: What is the most exciting part of this job?
Jim: Watching the transformation process of participants along their journey. My own growth and creative freedom are within the guidelines.
H&H: Can you talk more about the Ant-Inflammatory Diet? Why is it important?
Jim: Proper nourishment for the body, mind, and soul. This way of eating is clean and helps us to feel better as individuals. On the broader spectrum, nourishing our bodies properly creates a better personal environment. So we can make better choices, behave accordingly and take action in positive ways.
H&H: What are two of your favorite recipes at the Ranch?
Jim: Vegetable stock and Pickled Beets
H&H: What is your current go-to Sunfood recipe?
Jim: Sunfood Acai Flavor Cubes- for smoothies! Here is the full recipe:
3.5 c fresh strawberries
.5 c fresh lime juice
4 ea banana
.25 c honey
.25 c coconut milk
1 t kosher salt
2 T Sunfoods Acai Maqui bowl mix
**Blend everything together, place in proper-sized molds, freeze. Use in smoothies or protein drinks.