Jenny Ly creates community through wild food and storytelling, but first, she eats.
Below, is about Chasing Food’s mission and why I do what I do.
The Mission
Chasing Food is a collective run by me, Jenny Ly. I share stories of urban dwellers, myself included, venturing into hunting, gathering, and heeding the call of our inner wild. Most of these tales weave my Chinese-Vietnamese heritage with British Columbia's harvest. Through cooking, entertaining vignettes, great photography, and tried-and-true tips, I hope to show an honest perspective of hunting and gathering wild foods.
Who is Jenny Ly
I associate most memories with the meals I've had during periods of delight, despair, and victory.
My story starts with a series of unfortunate and bizarre events that compelled me to quit my job and take a year off. The extra time was used to deeply reflect on what sparked my curiosity. I uncovered a persistent desire to serve others through food, but I felt I had no distinct talents beyond eating, albeit doing it well.
After months of pondering, I pursued my desire to work in hospitality and took a restaurant job at Forage that barely covered my rent. The struggle was worth it because I got introduced to a community of wild food enthusiasts that taught me how to hunt and gather. Once I started chasing all my curiousities, life got a lot more exciting.
Why I Do What I Do
The idea of Chasing Food Club started through my desire to live a more purpose-driven life and jump into a path that valued happiness over money.
The kicker is that I live in a tiny apartment in the glass canyons of downtown Vancouver. I do not own a car and, until 2018, had never spent any time in the backcountry. Fortunately, I have a rapidly growing group of extraordinary mentors and friends.
The experience has made me determined to pay it forward and inspire those around me to do the same. I hope through my living repository of recipes and stories, I encourage you to listen, truly listen to what excites you, and pursue those curiosities.
“The need for connection and community is primal, as fundamental as the need for air, water, and food.”
— Dean Ornish