In this episode of The Biggest Table, host Andrew Camp engages in a rich conversation with Michael Twitty, a renowned culinary historian, food writer, and author of acclaimed works such as 'The Cooking Gene' and 'Kosher Soul.' Twitty provides insightful commentary on his journey and his role in culinary history, emphasizing the significance of food as a medium for experiencing and expressing cultural identity, spirituality, and community. They discuss the broad and diverse nature of Southern cuisine, its historical context, and the intertwining of various cultures that shape it. The discussion also touches upon the challenges faced by people of color in getting their culinary stories published, and Twitty's motivations behind writing his latest cookbook, 'Recipes from the American South.' The episode underscores the profound connections between food, culture, and empathy, as well as the importance of storytelling in preserving culinary heritage.

Michael W. Twitty is an acclaimed culinary historian, and author of the two-times James Beard Award-winning book The Cooking Gene, as well as Rice and Koshersoul. He has written for many publications and been featured throughout print and broadcast media, including the Guardian, The New York Times, The Washington Post, PBS, and NPR’s The Splendid Table. He has given over 500 public talks and appeared in numerous series, including Taste the Nation and High on the Hog.

Follow Michael on Instagram: @thecookinggene

This episode of the Biggest Table is brought to you in part by Wild Goose Coffee. Since 2008, Wild Goose has sought to build better communities through coffee. For our listeners, Wild Goose is offering a special promotion of 20% off a one time order using the code TABLE at checkout. To learn more and to order coffee, please visit wildgoosecoffee.com.