Simply Son Braho: A Tale of Sustainability and Connection
In Alaró, Simply Son Braho is Cultivating a New Food Culture
Back in 2012, Brenda Irani and her partner discovered their ideal sanctuary in Son Braho, Alaró — an idyllic setting for summer leisure and tennis games. But when the world turned upside down in 2020 and lockdown descended on Mallorca, their lifestyle took an unexpected turn. Confronted with the potential threat of food shortages and long-term isolation, Brenda was inspired to explore how her family could become self-sufficient. This exploration gave birth to a novel initiative, Simply Son Braho Farm, a sanctuary where families can savor nutritious, plant-based meals crafted from the farm’s own produce.
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The Lockdown Diaries: Empty Supermarkets and Life-Changing Decisions
The lockdown period brought Brenda and her family together in a way they hadn’t experienced in a long time. With her three sons typically away at university or boarding school, their collective presence in Mallorca offered a rare chance to strengthen familial bonds. “Our evenings were filled with elaborate meals and fun games. While the lockdown was a difficult time for many, it served to fortify our family ties,” Brenda reflects. This newfound focus on shared meals and healthy eating ignited a deeper concern for the planet’s wellbeing. “As I pondered the pandemic and its worldwide impact, I saw the empty supermarket shelves in London and asked myself, ‘How can we ensure our family’s self-reliance in such times?’”
While her sons immersed themselves in their studies, Brenda embarked on a self-education journey into sustainable agriculture. She dove into books, documentaries, and expanded her kitchen garden. “The most impactful step we can take is to reduce our consumption of meat and fish. So, I prioritized that and diversified our crop variety,” she elaborates. The result was a lush haven overflowing with a variety of fruits and vegetables across five hectares of fertile land. “I planted a diverse range of crops and ended up with so much produce that it was almost overwhelming,” she confesses with a light-hearted laugh. The surplus produce inspired Brenda to connect with fellow farmers and launch her own farm shop in Santa Catalina.
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A Lesson in Sustainability: The Educational Journey
Brenda’s farm, home to a vibrant array of life from ruby-red hens and active beehives to delectable broccoli and crunchy radishes, is a testament to low-impact farming. It’s a pesticide-free zone, on its way to becoming certified organic. A local permaculture team harvests the produce, and Brenda, with the help of her plant-based chef, Jeff, prepares fresh meals. “Our mission goes beyond offering nutritious farm produce and meals. We aim to raise awareness about our dietary choices. It’s as much about education as it is about food,” Brenda underscores. At present, workshops and classes are held at her Santa Catalina base, which also features a full delicatessen and a local product corner. Brenda hopes to open her Alaró farm to families in the future. “I plan to continue developing the farm so that children can visit, bring their own baskets, and pick what they like,” she shares, eager to foster a future that marries self-sustainability and enjoyment.
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