Closed Loop Cooking Weekly Newsletter 8.28.20

August 28th, 2020

Hi fam,

Let’s be real. Shit is rough. There’s not an easy way around it.

In a particularly challenging week, I look for a moment of true escape. Into a future world driven by sustainable systems and an equitable dinner table. A world with a decentralized network of community focused agriculture and support. Space where regenerative farming takes precedence and we protect our wild refuges and BIPOCs above all else. I escape into this version of existence where intersectional environmentalism is the guiding way of life, because we are not separate from nature. (Which is not just another validation of my late night grazing.)

For me, this escapist tendency is abstract daydreaming. This could be our reality. This future could exist. We have something to work towards, frustrating our current circumstances may be.

We need resources, we need moments to escape into, to fuel the work. (Hint: The CLC Bookshop is open with lots of titles to get you started.)

You’re not alone in this overwhelm. That escapism is vital for us to create a better tomorrow. Let’s explore the possibilities of this new world, together.

What are y’all reading right now?

Stay hungry,Hawnuh Lee | Founder, Closed Loop Cooking

C O O K B O O K  C L U B

Oaxaca: Home Cooking From the Heart of MexicoMust make everything in this vibrant, gorgeously designed cookbook. Every recipe draws inspiration from the authors’ Mexican heritage with a spin on traditional flavors. Getcha ya’self one.

S U P P O R T

Earth FoodThis beautifully illustrated handbook is a simple guide to composting written by Poppy Okotcha, illustrated by Pippa Kane. An awesome how-to for anyone who eats. Support Black farmers and buy it here!

C O L L A B

Calling All Black Trans ChefsThe Okra Project is looking for Black, trans individuals for creative collaborations in the kitchen. Tell your friends to spread the word and drop them a line!

R E A D

South India’s Missing VegetablesEnamoured with Akash Muralidharan’s design exploration tracking down South Indian produce out of his grandmother’s cookbook, Samaithu Par. Mystery ingredients including kaai valli kodi, called air potato in English. Where did these veggies go?

Have an idea we should feature in the newsletter? Want to support us? Drop us a line at [email protected] and tell your pals to sign up. We can’t wait to see what y’all cook up next! #closedloopcooking