March 1st, 2024

Hi friends,

Reveling in the masterful culinary endeavor of Trần Anh Hùng’s latest film–The Taste of Things. Every scene a painting, accompanied only by the orchestral sounds of a working kitchen–I savored each moment of this historical rom-dram. A love of food and food as love, literal cultural mouthpieces across time and space. While set in 1885, I’ve never related more to one’s deepest expression of care than in a perfectly executed course for those closest to you. Finding connection in the things we eat, the visceral tastes we share, is one of life’s deepest intimacies.

It is not easy to find explicit vulnerability in our relationships, in divulging our unmasked selves and asking to be witnessed. But in the food we share, the ways we prepare and consume, there is something equally revealing. To eat, to feed is emotive. That is to say, if I’m cooking for you, you will taste the love. (Or something equally flavorful, I’m sure.)

I’m appreciating some levity this week through moments of reciprocal intention. Effort as consideration and pleasure in simplicity. If you too are being romanced by romaine and other produce, say more.

and–

Stay hungry,Hawnuh Lee | Founder, Closed Loop Cooking

Celebrating the culinary legacy of R. C. Gorman.

The dish >>

• Prior to Oct 2023, Israel’s war on food explicitly highlights how food and seed sovereignty have been tools of oppression against Palestinians for decades.

• This “phonebook” is actually a v cool way to unplug with nature.

• Is my stove off? Is it?

• Keep your skins on for making your own garlic powder.

• Happy to see Chipotle putting funds towards more regenerative ag companies.

• This silk and gold foil pressed menu should be framed.

• This cinnamon maple sunflower seed butter is warming up these grey Portland mornings.

• Fully enjoying this open call for tortilla artists (kiddos to the front.)

Disclaimer - the following features a few artistic nude drawings. If that's not your thing, check back next week!

Cookbook corner - Nudes & Food

Inspired by the thoughtful moments and sensual undertones in fruit pairings with The Taste of Things–it was serendipitous to find R.C. Gorman's Nudes & Foods: Gorman Goes Gourmet. Compiled and edited by Virginia Dooley, this 1981 little-known treasure is an ode to the Native American artist, R. C. Gorman and his favorite recipes. It's an eclectic selection including anecdotes from friends and chefs, highlighting some traditional Navajo fare as well as the artist's own culinary creations and beautifully rendered portraiture. It's an incredible ode to taste, given in context of Gorman's full creative inspiration.You can find the full text at the Internet Archives.

Food as muse.

This pin speaks to me.

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