The Discover Issue

Freekeh Salad features Middle Eastern flavors and fresh local shrimp.

About three months ago, an email came across my desk that led to a story in this issue. The email, from instructor Kelby Siddons at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville, told me about an assignment she had given to her Advanced Placement Language and Composition classes: the students were to pretend she was the interim editor of Edible Northeast Florida, and pitch her a story for the magazine. Ms Siddens asked if I would be interested in reading the pitches and subsequent stories.

Not only did I get a chance to read them, I spent a day with the classes, talking about the topics they selected, editing a magazine and local food in Jacksonville. One essay in particular caught my attention. Written by Jewel Hardwick, the story was about her love for roti, a favorite food from Trinidad that couldn’t be found in Jacksonville. You can read about Jewel’s appreciation of Trinidadian roti here; it’s a discovery of a food and a new voice I am excited to share with everyone.

This issue is all about discoveries of food and people that enhance the community around us. We take you to a small farm in Ponte Vedra, where the water buffalo roam, to learn about using buffalo milk for yogurt and other food products. Discover global flavors to add to your cooking repertoire and try making Pandan Chiffon Cake, Scandinavian Fish Cakes or Freekeh Salad with Shrimp. And if you’re eager to explore other areas of Florida, go off the eaten path with a day trip to Mount Dora (no climbing apparel needed).

My hope is that this issue makes you hungry for the stories behind the food we eat. Take the opportunity to learn more about the people and places in your daily lives and discover their culinary worlds. Be sure to tag us on social media @edibleneflorida because we love to hear about your discoveries.

Lauren Titus, Editor

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STORIES & RECIPES FROM THE DISCOVER ISSUE