Intelligence Squared Jamaica's Culinary Journey, with Melissa Thompson and Riaz Phillips
Oct 31, 2022
Join Melissa Thompson, a renowned BBC Good Food columnist and author of "Motherland: A Jamaican Cookbook," along with Riaz Phillips, author of "West Winds: Recipes, History and Tales from Jamaica," as they dive into the rich tapestry of Jamaican cuisine. They explore iconic dishes like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish, tracing their roots through cultural influences ranging from Africa to colonialism. The conversation highlights the importance of culinary identity, authenticity, and celebrates the evolving narrative of Caribbean food in the global landscape.
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Thompson's Family History
- Melissa Thompson's father is Jamaican, and her mother is Maltese.
- Her father's difficult childhood experiences in Jamaica influenced his reluctance to return.
Diaspora and Homeland
- Riaz Phillips discusses the complex relationship between the Jamaican diaspora and their homeland.
- Many express pride in their culture but harbor reluctance to return due to past traumas.
Mango Memories
- Thompson shares an anecdote about her father's positive memories of Jamaican fruit, especially mangoes.
- This contrasts with his later, more complex recollections.
