Cynthia Nelson

There are chefs whose minds work in ways that astound. Their creations, and their approach to ingredients are a combination of artful expression, respect, and a dash of playfulness.

Cooking the big holiday meal is not a 1-day job so let’s not try to get it all done in a day.

It’s a game changer – steaming bread pudding. You can create the same effect if baked in a bain-marie (heated water bath in the oven) but steaming it on the stovetop I find to be easier and more accessible.

It is a ritual in which we engage every year, regardless of the holiday.

What type of potato chips do you like? What style of bread do you prefer?

There is an excitement that you get when you shop at an open air (farmer’s) market that you do not get when you shop in a supermarket.

Pork, Potatoes and Pumpkin (PPP) when cooked together as a stew will have you going for extra helpings.

Whether it’s Eid, Easter, Diwali or Christmas, many of us find ourselves in a state of reflection as we engage in the rituals and traditions with which we grew up.

It’s not right. And it’s not nice. Y’all know about certain things and keep the information to yourselves.

Last Wednesday was World Food Day 2024. The theme this year was “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future.”

While they are not new, there are certain things that we take for granted because we are familiar with them.

Eating seasonally is like being in a state of renewal. You get to enjoy things at the first picking, in the full flush of the season, and like a loved one leaving after a joyful visit, you soak up all it you can, until the next time.

It is my favourite “bush” tea. Bay leaf tea. If the word bush scares you, let me use a different word, and say the same thing.

It’s going to be a matter of personal preference – lemongrass iced tea or lemongrass drink.

There were never fights (that would be unheard of and definitely not tolerated), but there were negotiations.

Most whole wheat breads are not made only of whole wheat flour.

It is a prized part of the pig that’s loved by many.

While it is often advised not to mess with perfection, there are times when you need to push boundaries.

We are all aware of how refreshingly cool cucumbers and watermelons are, especially when they are chilled.

If you look carefully at many of our dishes, all across this region, you will see creativity and invention, the art of making-do.