Fargo FAQ: Vegan Eclairs, Having a Conscience is Expensive! "Ask For Help" 🌱🍰💸🤝

We explore frequently asked questions about life in Fargo, the challenges of creating vegan baked goods, and the unique characteristics that define Fargo residents.

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In this episode, we start with an intriguing conversation with Ebony Kungle, owner of The Colorful Cookie, who specializes in gluten-free macarons. Ebony shares insights into the complexities of making vegan macarons, a challenge she has been tackling for over a year. The conversation reveals that vegan macarons are particularly difficult to perfect due to the essential role eggs play in the structure of traditional macarons. Despite experimenting with substitutes like potato starch and chickpea water, also known as aquafaba, Ebony describes how the process remains unpredictable and costly. Her struggle mirrors a sentiment shared in the popular TV series "Breaking Bad," where the cost of maintaining a conscience—much like adhering to vegan principles—can be high.

The show then shifts to a discussion about Ebony's involvement in a local networking group, where she and the host meet weekly. The importance of community and networking is highlighted as they discuss the upcoming Berry Festival, where Ebony plans to showcase her gluten-free treats, including cinnamon croissants and éclairs. The conversation delves into the intricacies of baking gluten-free éclairs, revealing that while they may seem deep-fried, they are actually made from a simple choux pastry base, consisting of flour, butter, and milk. The host humorously suggests that he may never invite a cook onto the show again, as discussing food during the lunch hour makes him increasingly hungry.

As the conversation progresses, the topic shifts to the recent launch of T's Tacos, a new addition to the local food scene offering indigenous tacos and bowls made with wild rice and bison meat. This segment underscores Fargo's growing diversity in food options while also hinting at the challenges of maintaining a vegan diet in a region where traditional meat and dairy-based dishes are prevalent.

Ebony also touches on her ability to make vegan-friendly bagels, explaining that the base dough is naturally vegan, consisting of just flour, water, and yeast. She mentions that by omitting the egg wash typically used at the end, she can offer a fully vegan option. The host, a realtor by profession, expresses his enthusiasm for bagels, lamenting the overabundance of donuts at his open houses and sharing his preference for bagels as a more exciting and enjoyable treat.

The episode continues with a deeper exploration of Fargo's community spirit. Ebony, who is originally from out of state, discusses her experiences living in different regions, including Iowa, Detroit, and Washington. She reflects on the idea that Fargo's harsh climate might shape its residents' resilience and toughness. However, Ebony suggests that the friendliness and willingness to help in Fargo may be more a product of small-town living than the weather itself. This leads to a broader discussion about the similarities between small towns across the Midwest and beyond, emphasizing that the close-knit, supportive nature of these communities is a shared trait, regardless of geographical location.

One of the most interesting moments in the episode occurs when the host shares a "Dad fact" about Fargo's unique building restrictions. He explains that the city's soft dirt limits the height of buildings, as taller structures risk tipping over unless they are built on deep, reinforced foundations. This fact adds a quirky, local flavor to the discussion, highlighting the peculiarities of Fargo's landscape and infrastructure.

Towards the end of the episode, the host poses a thought-provoking question to Ebony: If she could send a three-word message back in time to her 18-year-old self, what would it be? Ebony's response, "Ask for help," encapsulates a powerful lesson learned through her experiences in the military, her upbringing, and her journey as an entrepreneur. She reflects on the Midwest culture of self-reliance and how it can sometimes hinder people from seeking the assistance they need. Ebony's advice resonates with the show's theme of community and support, offering listeners a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out when needed.