Exceptional Culinary Contributions

Did you know that black chefs have made exceptional contributions to the culinary world?

Celebrate their achievements with me this Black History Month. Let’s shine the light on some of America’s most valuable Chefs. In doing so we are acknowledging not just their works, but Americas.

As a Black American and Personal Chef, not only are their stories inspiring, but they are also what we all strive for in this world, which is to be able to live out our lives doing what we love and sharing it with the world.

I truly believe that James Beard’s words ring true, “Food is our common ground. A universal experience.”

Food can be a catalyst for change. It can also assist us in learning about one another ‘s cultures and bringing us closer together as a community.

Dear God,
Let us continue to celebrate one another’s differences. Let us remember each sould contribution to making Your world a better place. Thank you for giving us the courage and wisdom to live our passions, while still giving You all the Honor, Glory, and Praise. -Amen

Black Chef Spotlight

Zephyr Wright

Chef Zephyr Wright is known as the personal chef for President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1942, she began working for the Johnson household and ended up staying until his presidency in 1969. While Johnson was in Congress his home quickly became popular because of her cuisine.

Other politicians visited regularly and built strong bonds over Chef Wright’s Chile Con Queso and Peach Cobbler. Johnson’s wife, Lady Bird Johnson wrote, “I have yet to find a great Chef whose desserts I like as well as Zephyr’s.”

This recipe is an ode to Chef Wright it is a fresh peach cobbler recipe I hope you and your family will enjoy. Happy Eating!

Fresh Peach Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Cups sliced, peeled Peaches
• 1 Cup sugar
• 2 Tablespoons margarine, or butter, melted
• 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Shortcake dough (below)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat over to 400F
2. Mix Peaches, sugar, margarine or butter, cornstarch, lemon juice, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Turn into an ungreased 6X10X 1 1/2-inch rectangular baking dish.
4. Prepare shortcake dough; Place over peach mixture. Sprinkle with sugar and ground nutmeg, if desired.
5. Bake until golden brown, 30-35 minutes.
6. Serve hot with sweetened whipped cream, if desired.

Makes 6 to 8 servings

Short Cake Dough Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 Tablespoons Shortening
• 1 Cup all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• 1 1 /2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup milk

Cooking Directions

1. Cut shortening into flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
2. Stir in milk.
3. Turn into Lightly floured cloth-covered board.
4. Knead lightly for 10-15 minutes.
5. Roll into 6X10-inch rectangle.
6. Cut several slits in the dough to allow steam to escape.