Smologies #31: INDIGENOUS COOKING with Mariah Gladstone | Ologies with Alie Ward

Intro

In this episode of “Ologies with Alie Ward,” host Alie Ward explores the world of Indigenous cooking with Mariah Gladstone. Indigenous cuisinology is the study of a culture through its food, and Mariah Gladstone, an environmental scientist, engineer, cooking show host, and advocate of Indigenous cooking, shares her knowledge and experiences in this field.

Main Takeaways

Indigenous Cooking and Culture

• Indigenous cooking is based on regional and seasonal ingredients, including ancestral recipes and modern tools for preservation and preparation.
• Indigenous people have access to modern tools like chest freezers and coffee grinders, which they incorporate into their cooking.
• Fry bread, a traditional food, originated from a time when Native people were dependent on government rations.
• There is a tendency to mistake oppression for culture, but it’s important to focus on the resources available.

Indigenous Knowledge and Ingredients

• Indigenous knowledge is gathered from cultural connections, indigenous botanists, academic research, and native chefs.
• Camas bulbs are edible but need to be slow-cooked or roasted for an extended amount of time to break down the high inulin content.
• Choke cherries are edible, but the pits contain cyanide, which can be neutralized by drying and smashing them into little fruit patties.
• The North American indigenous diet is incredibly regional and not solely acorn-based.

Food Insecurity and Indigenous Food

• Food insecurity is a concern for Indigenous communities, and efforts are being made to address food sovereignty.
• Mushrooms play different roles in Indigenous foods depending on the region, with puffballs having a cultural story among the Blackfeet people.
• Food deserts pose a challenge for accessing fresh fruits and vegetables on reservations.
• Non-native individuals should learn about plants and consider appropriation concerns when appreciating and participating in indigenous food.

Connecting with the Land and Education

• Connecting with the landscape can help build a deeper connection with it.
• Berry picking can help understand the other creatures that rely on the berries.
• Spending time educating and teaching about food is the most fun and rewarding thing to do.

Summary

Indigenous Cooking and Culture

Indigenous cooking is a reflection of a culture’s regional and seasonal ingredients, combining ancestral recipes with modern preservation and preparation techniques. Fry bread, for example, originated from a time when Native people relied on government rations. It’s important to separate oppression from culture and focus on the resources available.

Indigenous Knowledge and Ingredients

Indigenous knowledge is gathered from various sources, including cultural connections, indigenous botanists, academic research, and native chefs. Traditional ingredients like camas bulbs and choke cherries require specific cooking methods to ensure their edibility. The North American indigenous diet is diverse and varies by region.

Food Insecurity and Indigenous Food

Food insecurity is a significant concern for Indigenous communities, and efforts are being made to address food sovereignty. Mushrooms play a vital role in Indigenous foods, with different types having cultural significance in various regions. Food deserts pose challenges for accessing fresh produce on reservations, and non-native individuals should approach indigenous food with respect and consideration for appropriation concerns.

Connecting with the Land and Education

Connecting with the land and engaging in activities like berry picking can deepen one’s relationship with the environment and foster a greater understanding of the creatures that rely on natural resources. Educating and teaching about food, particularly indigenous food, is both enjoyable and rewarding.

Conclusion

Exploring Indigenous cooking with Mariah Gladstone on “Ologies with Alie Ward” offers valuable insights into the cultural significance of food, the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge, and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in terms of food security. By learning about and appreciating indigenous cuisine, we can foster a deeper understanding and respect for the diverse cultures and traditions that exist within our world.