Abstract
The green (sometimes maroon), long, octagon shaped pod known as okra is a staple in some southern American dishes. Stews, rice dishes, or simply fried are the obvious ways of examining okra; however, the complexity of okra far exceeds its physical state. The history, origins, and connections to other areas of life outside of gastronomy. This research focuses on the historical nature of okra and how it became such a staple in southern cooking in the southern region of the United States. Furthermore, this research examines the role okra played in the spread of Christianity in Africa, predating any religious indoctrination by European actors. This research focuses on references from the bible point to okra as an agent in the spread of Christianity.
Presenters
Andre TaylorStudent, Doctor of Philosophy, College of William & Mary, Virginia, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fed Up: Learning From the Past, Imagining New Futures
KEYWORDS
Okra, Kush, Ethiopia, West Africa, Christianity, Culture, Cooking
