Preserving Culinary Heritage: A Conversation with Crystal Wilkinson
In a world where culinary traditions are often overlooked or overshadowed by the latest online trends, it’s refreshing to encounter individuals dedicated to preserving the rich tapestry of cultural cuisine. Crystal Wilkinson, author of “PRAISESONG for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks,” is one such individual. Her book serves not only as a collection of recipes but also as a heartfelt tribute to the Black Appalachian culinary heritage that’s shaped her family for generations.
During my conversation with Crystal, she delved into the deep-rooted traditions and cherished recipes that define Black Appalachian cooking, but also her own family recipes (jam cake, anyone!?). Drawing on her family’s legacy, she shared captivating anecdotes about the enduring influence of her grandmother and the profound connections between food, family, and heritage.
In our conversation and her book, Crystal eloquently articulated how food serves as a form of expression, preserving stories and traditions that might otherwise be lost to time. Through her book, she pays homage to the resilient women who’ve preserved these culinary traditions for generations, ensuring their voices and recipes are celebrated and honored.
An integral part of her work is preserving recipes. By documenting and sharing her family’s recipes, Crystal ensures that the flavors and stories of Black Appalachian cuisine continue to thrive. My conversation with Crystal served as a poignant reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and celebrate our cultural heritage. Through her book, we’re invited to savor the flavors of the past, celebrate the joys of home cooking, and pay tribute to the kitchen ghosts who continue to guide us with their timeless wisdom and love. It’s a journey that leaves us inspired, informed, and hungry for more.