An interview with our chef, Susie!
What is your favorite meal to cook at Sojourner?
My favorite meals to cook here at Sojourner are pasta dishes. Whether it be lasagna, alfredo, or Bolognese, a good pasta dish is always a crowd pleaser.
At the shelter, we are required to comply with the regulations set by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Why is it important for families to have nutritious meals while staying at the shelter?
It is important for families to have nutritious meals because it’s a necessity. A nutritious meal provides energy needed to keep active throughout the day. Good food choices are especially important for children's growing bodies and minds. Good nutrition has both immediate and long-lasting benefits for the families. Also, I feel the last thing a mother should have to worry about while at Sojourner is a decent meal for her and children.
What’s your favorite memory from your time here so far?
Well, I have several favorite memories, but it always warms my heart to make a woman’s or child’s day with a custom birthday cake.
How do you plan and prepare meals to meet the diverse needs of the people we serve?
I usually plan and prepare meals that are universally recognizable. Once I talk with a client that has a specific cultural food preference or has some type of dietary restrictions I will cater meals for them. I have prepared completely vegan meals for vegan families. I have also learned to make a pretty good jollaf rice and egusi stew. The families are so surprised and appreciative of me providing them with their comfort food of choice. Those are also some of my favorite memories.
What is your best cooking advice?
Becoming a good cook is like anything else, practice makes perfect. Try different recipes again and again, tweak them over time to make them your own.