In the heart of Arizona, amidst the picturesque landscapes of Tempe, stands the historic Hayden Flour Mills, an iconic landmark dating back to the late 19th century, that has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, serving as a symbol of resilience and innovation. At the helm of this enduring legacy stands Emma Zimmerman, a remarkable woman who has made her mark in the world of wheat.
Emma’s journey with Hayden Flour Mills began in 2012 when she took the reins of the mill, alongside her father Jeff. Her appointment marked a significant shift in the traditionally male-dominated industry, where women have often been overlooked for leadership roles. However, Emma's passion for wheat and her deep understanding of the milling process quickly established her as a trailblazer in her field.
Born and raised in Arizona, Emma developed a profound appreciation for the region's agricultural heritage. She recognized the importance of preserving the rich history of the Hayden Flour Mills and its role in shaping the community, and under her stewardship, the brand underwent a transformation, incorporating modern techniques while staying true to its roots, all while embracing her dedication to sourcing local, sustainably grown wheat grown here in the East Valley. She firmly believes in supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the community and by forging strong relationships with Arizona's wheat growers, it ensures that the flour produced at Hayden Flour Mills is of the highest quality, reflecting the region's unique terroir.
But Emma's contributions extend beyond the mill's operations. Recognizing the power of education and community engagement, she has been instrumental in organizing workshops and events that celebrate the art of milling and baking. These initiatives not only showcase the skill and craftsmanship involved in the wheat industry but also inspire a new generation to explore the possibilities of working with this ancient grain. And her dedication to the craft has not gone unnoticed. She has earned recognition both locally and nationally for her innovative approach and commitment to preserving the heritage of Hayden Flour Mills, and her leadership has paved the way for other women in the industry, inspiring them to break barriers and excel in their chosen fields.
As a trailblazer, Emma has shattered stereotypes and proven that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries. Her passion for wheat, coupled with her relentless pursuit of excellence, has revitalized Hayden Flour Mills and breathed new life into the world of wheat in Arizona. Through her leadership and vision, Emma has not only preserved an iconic legacy but has also become a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. And her impact extends far beyond the mill itself through her commitment to excellence has elevated Phoenix's entire culinary culture, championing locally sourced ingredients and fostering collaborations with talented artisans. Through her tireless efforts, she has created a vibrant community celebrating the best of Phoenix's food scene and has been a driving force in organizing events and collaborations that bring together local farmers, chefs, and food enthusiasts.
And this dedication to local goes beyond the mill's operations. In her James Beard-nominated cookbook, The Millers Daughter, she celebrates the diverse culinary creations that can be made with local grains. From artisan bread to pastries and pasta, Emma showcases the versatility and flavor profiles of Arizona's wheat, not only highlighting her expertise as a miller but also serving as a testament to the creativity and talent of local chefs and artisans.
With her groundbreaking mindset and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the legacy of the Hayden Flour Mills, Emma has shattered barriers and ignited a flame of inspiration within countless women, urging them to fearlessly pursue their dreams in domains historically dominated by men. Her unwavering love for wheat and unwavering loyalty to local ingredients have firmly established her as a pioneer in the realm of gastronomic innovations, solidifying her position as the woman behind the wheat.
Tasty Tuesdays at Hayden Flour Mill
In a bold demonstration of their unwavering support for local enterprises, Hayden Flour Mills is taking their commitment to new heights with the captivating Tasty Tuesday pop-up event. Held every Tuesday at their Gilbert location, this event serves as a hub of culinary brilliance, where the Valley's most talented culinary artisans converge to showcase their craft using the exceptional flours provided by Hayden Flour Mills.
Tasty Tuesday goes beyond being a mere lunchtime delight; it cultivates a vibrant ecosystem of gastronomic excellence right in our own neighborhood. From 11 am to 2 pm every Tuesday, patrons are treated to a tantalizing array of delectable creations from renowned establishments like the James Beard Award-winning Barrio Bread, the innovatively crafted dishes by Sonoran Pasta, and the beloved local favorite, Benny Blanco Tortillas' mouthwatering tortillas.
As a trailblazer, Emma has shattered stereotypes and proven that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries.
In her James Beard-nominated cookbook, The Millers Daughter, she celebrates the diverse culinary creations that can be made with local grains.
