Indigenous Food Ways of the Americas

Mixing together local ingredients, family recipes, and culinary experiences, local indigenous Chefs Candace Stock and Edward Rodriguez honor their ancestry and culture through cuisine. Join us Friday, February 3rd for First Fridays: Indigenous Food Ways of the Americas – Bringing Culture and Community Together, and hear stories and perspectives from Candace and Edward about their hopes of educating and influencing the food culture in Fargo and beyond, while sticking to their roots.

Growing up on White Earth Reservation as a member of Ho-Chunk Nation and attending the Cultural Institute of America have shaped how Candace views food and culture. Blending her experiences, skills,and passion has given her opportunities to travel and cook around the world, create a menu in honor of the forthcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, and host Indigenous Dinners at Bernbaum’s where she and Edward both work. Candace will share insights from these experiences, as well as her mission to share her gifts with the next generation.

Edward’s dedication to the culinary arts is influenced by the mentorship he received, and the value he finds in the traditional and medicinal ways of cuisine from his heritage. Edward attended the culinary program at M-State and has worked years at various restaurants. His experiences and devotion in the kitchen comes from his tribal ancestry and regional influence. Edward will share stories of how native foods influenced eating patterns from the beginning of time, examine the Indigenous trade routes that existed long before colonization and modern borders, and how culinary practices create traditions that are both spiritual and medicinal.

Join us at 701 Eateries on Friday, February 3. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. with FREE Thunder Coffee and the program kicks-off at 8 a.m. Free and open to all.