Chow-Chow & Soul™

It is almost the end of peach season and wherever you are, bite into one more of those juicy sweet, sunset-colored rounds. For peach enthusiasts—like me, the season does not last long enough. Most of my peaches this summer were from Michigan. But I did score several of my favorites from, Chilton County, Alabama. This […]

June is National Soul food Month, celebrating the heritage and history of the foods and foodways of African Americans and peoples from the African diaspora. The culinary contributions of this group had an indelible impact on the American menu. When Big Mama whipped up a family favorite back in the day, she stirred in plenty […]

Today’s post is dedicated to my mother and grandmothers—Big Mama and Gonga. These women shaped my taste memories and taught me about really good cooking. My Mom will celebrate 90 years young in a couple of months and she is one good cook. She has always said she liked cooking but she didn’t like the […]

Each February I’m reminded of how many stories of unsung heroes there are to share about Black History. During this centennial year for the recognition of black history month the theme is “A Century of Black History, Life and Culture.” Food is intrinsic to culture, and it is central to everyday life. African American innovation […]

I love chili and have stirred more than a few gallons of it. The family recipe was typically ground beef served Cincinnati-style over spaghetti with Delta tamales. Then there was white bean chili with chicken created by my friend at Southern Living magazine. These days the Drapers’ chili of choice starts with a beef chuck […]

We’ve been tempted to overindulge at just about every gathering during the holiday season. Lighten up with this salad of tri-color tomatoes, arugula and fresh mozzarella cheese. It adds a splash of color to any menu and delivers on flavor from good-for-you ingredients. It’s easy to make, is gluten-free and is a great addition for […]

There are so many good things to sample during this season of good eating. And some of those are well-loved dishes that hold special memories when they appear. I come from a family of really really good cooks—it’s in my genes. I enjoy cooking. Sharing food info and our family’s food heritage are the reasons […]

Holiday cooking can take many forms, and without a doubt turkey is the superstar. It can be brined, roasted, fried, grilled, slow-cooked, smoked or spatchcocked. Last week I shared my timeline to help holiday cooks organize for the Thanksgiving meal. Today I’m talking turkey and sharing how to cook a spatchcock or butterflied bird. Spatchcock […]

You still have time to fire up the grill if you’re living in an area where cold wind and the polar vortex will make outdoor cooking just about mission impossible in a few months. Whether it’s tailgating, week-end entertaining or family dinner, grill seasoned turkey filets. They’re cooked over medium-low heat and make a quick and […]

I really love peaches and as you know Chilton County peaches are my absolute favorites. This is the second summer I’ve been back in Chicago and the first time in ten years that a Chilton County peach has not been in the fruit bowl, in the salad, ice cream, cobbler or my mouth. The Alabama […]