30 Jun Family, Food and Southern Culture by Brittany Nelson
Summer and the warmer weather makes me want to eat ice cream and other refreshing treats. Since I’m on a journey to embrace my roots, I decided to satisfy this craving by baking classic southern desserts and I’ve learned a few lessons along the way.
Every time my monthly Southern Living magazine arrives, I find more recipes I can’t wait to try out. I’ve now baked traditional pound cake, carrot cake, and hummingbird cake. These recipes have southern flair, just like the generations of women who have baked them. I love experimenting with recipes that I hope to one day pass on to my children and grandchildren.
I’m not sure how many of you bake desserts from scratch, but it can be quite the endeavor! My biggest takeaway is that although baking southern recipes is truly an art form and requires skill, the end result is what really matters because it is an avenue to promote family and friendship. I was surprised to find that I would need to make so many layers, glazes, icings, and toppings from scratch. But when I finished in the kitchen and my friends and family came together to enjoy a nice treat, the hard work was definitely worth it. No wonder we are willing to spend so many hours in the kitchen!
The more I bake, the more I realize how much food brings people together and why it’s such a big part of southern culture. I’m going to be getting together for cookouts with family and friends for July 4th weekend and I can’t wait to bring a dessert – maybe a strawberry shortcake or berry cobbler – because I’ve realized how food creates a bonding experience. When people eat together, they start socializing and create lasting relationships. I love baking because it allows us to make happy memories with those we cherish.
As I wrap up my food adventure, I’m excited to learn about new aspects of southern culture. I can cook a wide variety of recipes, but the perfect event requires more than just good food. Next I’m excited to learn about southern hospitality and how I can use that to throw a great party.
Brittany Nelson is the co-founder of GWG. After many years of volunteering in international ministry, she became excited about helping other young women discover their passion. Brittany is a Jr. HR Generalist at a consulting firm in the DC area. She spends her free time exploring DC and going to Washington Wizards games with her husband, Paul.
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