Jessica B. Harris, a renowned culinary historian and author, discusses her updated book, which reflects on Kwanzaa’s traditions and cuisine. She delves into the significance of the seven principles and symbols of Kwanzaa, emphasizing community and unity. Harris shares her perspectives on how improvisation and cultural narratives shape African American cooking. The podcast also explores contemporary recipes and personal anecdotes that illustrate the holiday's rich culinary heritage, inviting creativity in Kwanzaa celebrations throughout the year.
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Kwanzaa's Origins
Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Ron Karenga for African Americans.
It's a time for cultural reaffirmation, drawing inspiration from various African harvest celebrations.
insights INSIGHT
Seven Principles and Symbols
Kwanzaa has seven core principles like unity and self-determination, celebrated over seven nights.
It also features seven symbols, including a mat, fruits, a candle holder, corn, a cup, and gifts.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Food for Unity
Prepare diverse dishes from the African diaspora to symbolize unity on the first night of Kwanzaa.
Harris' cookbook includes both everyday recipes and those with historical connections to the African experience.
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In *High on the Hog*, Jessica B. Harris chronicles the history of African American cuisine, from its origins in Africa to its evolution in the United States. The book details the culinary traditions brought by enslaved Africans, their blending with Native American and European cuisines, and the significant impact these traditions have had on American food culture. Harris explores various periods, including slavery, the Great Migration, and the Jim Crow era, highlighting how food played a pivotal role in the lives of African Americans and their contributions to American gastronomy.
A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook
A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook
Celebrating the Holiday with Family, Community, and Tradition
Jessica B. Harris
Jessica B. Harris's "A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook" offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and culinary delights. It delves into the rich cultural significance of Kwanzaa, exploring its seven principles and symbols. The book features recipes that reflect Harris's personal cooking style, incorporating diverse influences from the African diaspora. It emphasizes the importance of improvisation and creativity in the kitchen, encouraging readers to adapt recipes and create their own traditions. The updated version includes additional insights and perspectives, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Kwanzaa.
A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook was first published in 1995, a few decades after the seven-day festival was created in 1966. Written by culinary historian and author Jessica B. Harris, the book explores the holiday's history, traditions, rituals, and food–and in 2024, Harris released an updated version of her original guide. In today's episode, she joins Here & Now's Scott Tong for a conversation about the meaning of the seven symbols and principles of Kwanzaa. They also discuss the way the cookbook's recipes reflect Harris' daily cooking style, the origins of techniques like deep frying, and the centrality of improvisation to African American culture.
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