When I think about the heart of Southern cooking, two ingredients always come to mind: okra and tomatoes. These humble vegetables bring so much warmth and character to a dish. They are staples in many kitchens, especially in Southern and West African traditions. Cooking with okra and tomatoes is not just about making food - it’s about connecting with culture, history, and community. I want to share with you how these ingredients can transform your meals and bring a little ext

Happy New Year! I recently discovered that I need cookbook reviews for Creole Celebrations to be submitted on two websites: Bowker ISBN https://bookwire.bowker.com/book/USA/Gifts-from-the-Ancestors-9798987165010-Raleigh-Sheri-L-112790047 and Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205093162-gifts-from-the-ancestors So if you purchased or were gifted a copy of Creole Celebrations, please accept my heartfelt gratitude in advance for these reviews. It will greatly help my

The Lawrence J. and Viola M. Hospitality Scholarship is designed to support women pursuing undergraduate degrees in hospitality-related fields, such as culinary arts, hospitality management, tourism, and leadership at Northwestern State University. During my experience working with Hospitality and Management Technology (HMT) students at NSULA last year, we confirmed the importance of providing support for women in the hospitality industry. In the coming year, the Gifts From

At the inception of a new year, the tables of the American South are adorned with the traditional meal of black-eyed peas, cabbage, and cornbread. Depending on where you are, the peas may have okra in them, and the cabbage may become collard greens. The meat on the table is usually smoked and salted pork, with a bone-in ham being the general favorite. The greens are thought to be a reference to the money that folds, the cornbread is said to imitate gold, but the peas are sai

Order your copy of Creole Celebrations for the foodie in your life today! Free Shipping!

West African cuisine is a vibrant celebration of flavors, colors, and traditions. It tells stories of communities, history, and the land itself. When I first explored these dishes, I was struck by how each meal carries a deep sense of identity and connection. The warmth of the spices, the heartiness of the ingredients, and the communal way of sharing food all invite us to experience more than just a meal. They invite us to join a culture. Exploring Traditional West African Me

Introduction to Creole Culinary Heritage Creole cuisine is a rich tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences. It reflects the history and traditions of the people who have shaped it. This blog post explores the beauty of Creole culinary heritage, highlighting its significance and the upcoming presentation at Northwestern State University. The Essence of Creole Cuisine Creole cuisine is not just about food; it is about community and connection. It brings together flavors

I am pleased to announce that the scholarship for the College of Hospitality Management and Tourism at Northwestern State University in...

Subscribe to Substack and let's get something started. https://lonestarcreoles.substack.com Introducing Lone Star Creoles Lone Star...

Cooking with Culture: A Creole Cuisine Demonstration. Exploring how West African cooking impacted Creole & Southern Cuisine. October 2,...

Mark your calendars to celebrate with Cast Iron Skillet Culinaire on the printed version of the Creole Celebrations Cookbook. Enjoy food,...

The Iberia African American Historical Society will host a recipe heritage event on February 24, 2024. Gifts From The Ancestors Foodways...

Gifts From the Ancestors Presentation - A Celebration of Louisiana Creole Culture and Cuisine in collaboration with The Iberia African...

Creole family traditions and recipes are passed down from generation to generation. Over time some of the art of cooking has been lost....