By: Joshua Finley
Rooted in the vibrant streets of Haiti, Mercedes Sam-Hogu’s journey into the world of cooking began at an early age. Raised amidst the rich culture of Haitian culinary traditions, she found herself drawn to the sights, smells, and flavors of her homeland’s cuisine.
Reflecting on her earliest memories, she shared, “My earliest recollection of cooking Haitian food started as early as the age of eight years old when I was growing up in Haiti, just shadowing the cook when she was cooking our dinners, breakfast, and lunch.”
Upon relocating to South Florida in 1976, this passion for cooking only intensified. “Everything I learned back home at the age of 10, I started cooking for my siblings and my mother,” they recalled. “As I grew up, it started to get better and better, and I enjoy cooking, I enjoy feeding people.”
Despite the challenges that often accompany the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, her dedication to Haitian cuisine remained steadfast. Her dishes, characterized by bold spices and expert seasoning, quickly gained recognition and appreciation among friends, family, and even strangers fortunate enough to try her food. It was not long before her culinary prowess caught the attention of others, sparking a newfound appreciation for Haitian cuisine within her community.
As an author, Mercedes found a unique way to share her love for Haitian cooking with the world. Through her recipes and writings, she sought to capture not only the flavors of Haiti but also the essence of its culture and traditions.
“Most of the stories I have to convey through my cooking is my love for helping people, serving people, feeding people, and just overall caring,” She reflected. “The way I care for every individual that God has put in my path.”
Over the years, she has embraced the evolution of Haitian cuisine, incorporating influences from various culinary traditions into their recipes. Whether it was infusing Haitian dishes with flavors from Hispanic, Bahamian, Jamaican, or Greek cuisines, she ensured that each adaptation stayed true to the essence of Haitian cooking while appealing to a broader audience.
Yet, amidst the innovation and adaptation, she remained steadfast in her commitment to preserving the communal spirit of Haitian dining. For Mercedes, food was not just sustenance but a means of bringing people together, fostering a sense of unity and connection.
For individuals eager to delve into the realm of culinary exploration, Mercedes Sam-Hogu offered guidance that is both straightforward and insightful. She emphasized the importance of cooking with passion and authenticity, urging aspiring chefs to pour their emotions and personal stories into every dish they create. “Cook from the heart,” she advised, highlighting the significance of infusing one’s cooking with genuine love and care, which she believes is the secret to truly resonant flavors.
Furthermore, she encouraged maintaining a strong connection to one’s cultural heritage, encapsulated in her urging to “stay true to your roots.” This involves respecting and drawing inspiration from the traditional dishes and cooking techniques passed down through generations, which not only preserve cultural identity but also enrich the culinary experience.
Lastly, she celebrated the vast array of global cuisines, advising budding chefs to “celebrate the diversity of flavors and cultures that make our world so rich and vibrant.” By embracing and experimenting with the myriad ingredients, spices, and cooking styles from around the world, she believes that cooks can create a more inclusive and exciting culinary landscape. This approach not only broadens the palate but also fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures through their culinary delights.
Published by: Khy Talara
