Our food tells a story.
Here in the Virgin Islands that story ushers in nostalgia of resilience and defiance whether it be in the spices embodying the fire of Queen Mary or the colorful fusion of meats and vegetables present in a callaloo dish, reflecting our island nation’s diversity. In fact, many of our meals are served elsewhere, but called different names.
For example, the Johnny Cake, arguably the VI’s most delectable culinary ambassador is also enjoyed in other Eastern Caribbean islands and as far south as Trinidad where it’s called a fry bake. Yet, our johnny cake is distinctly different in the way it’s made.
So what exactly are the dishes undeniably unique to the Virgin Islands?
It’s a question that often nags at me when asked by visitors to our islands. Furthermore, who are the architects of our cuisine’s DNA and where are they housing these cooking genes. With our local population aging dramatically in which folks over the age of 50 now outnumber everyone else I’ve always feared that VI recipes will eventually disappear with our elders’ passing if not archived.
Enter Wah You Cookin?!
In Yellow Cedar’s first cooking show one up and coming local chef will learn from a local elder master chef our cherished recipes that have stood the test of time thus creating a visual library of our culinary gems. The dishes they prepare will then be judged by a cohort of influential VI tastemakers who’ll share their own reflections on culture and history. I’ve even taken a personal stake in the food and beverage landscape.
If we are to inevitably take ownership of our story and ultimate destiny, charting a course to finally define our identity we must begin at our most essential space – the kitchen.
Watch a sneak peek of “Wah You Cookin?!” below.
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