Shown above: Margo Gabriel, right, author of “The Expat Kitchen Cookbook,” is shown with Tamika Francis, left, the founder of “Food and Folklore" series at Just Book-ish, A new bookstore in Dorchester's Fields Corner on Jan. 9. Photo courtesy Tamika Francis
By Sherri Cajuste, Haitians of Boston
Food and culture enthusiasts and the Haitian community gathered to listen as chef and author Margo Gabriel discussed her work with a special emphasis on Soup Joumou during a special Q&A event held inside the new bookstore, Just-Bookish, located in Dorchester's Fields Corner neighborhood.
It was a homecoming of sorts for Gabriel, who was born and raised in Mattapan to Haitian parents. She was hosted by the dynamic Tamika Francis, founder of the Food and Folklore series.
As part of the event, guests were treated to a tasting of different renditions of Soup Joumou, with each recipe reflecting the personal touch of the host and her understanding of this iconic dish. From the texture of the broth to the combination of seasonings, every bite told a story of Haitian resilience and heritage.
Margo talked about how she fell in love with the culture watching her mother cook her favorite dishes and soon began to learn by herself. She started her career as an accountant but always had a passion for education and writing. She soon began working as a food writer for different publications such as Edible Boston, Solstice Literary Magazine and currently writes for Time Out Portugal and Cuisine Noir based in Oakland California.
The event began as a social hour where conversations about Haiti filled the room.
Francis, founder of Food and Folklore, talked about her brand and future plans for blending cultural storytelling with culinary experiences, and how she planned to expand her platform to inspire even more people to connect with the rich history behind every dish.
Gabriel, who now lives in Portugal, joined the discussion to share insights into her new cookbook, The Expat Kitchen, a beautiful fusion of Haitian, Portuguese and American recipes that also explores themes of identity, history, and culture.
When asked what Soup Joumou means to her, Gabriel said it means “to feel at ease and to challenge the narrative. It means to embrace freedom and your ancestors' sacrifices.”
Abobe, Margo Gabriel, author of “The Expat Kitchen CookBook” with her brother and Boston-based entrepreneur Peter Edouard. Photo by Joel Theodat.
Sherri Cajuste is the founder of Haitians of Boston, which partners with BostonHaitian.com and BNN, Inc. Follow Haitians of Boston on Instagram