Culture & Heritage Series: Cuisine

The Culture & Heritage Series 2024 is a collaborative program presented in partnership with the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, and the Hermann-Grima & Gallier Historic Houses.

This unique series aims to explore the rich and complex history of New Orleans through the lens of Jewish cuisine.Through a diverse range of academic lectures, hands-on cooking demonstrations, and interactive cooking classes, participants will have the opportunity to delve into the culinary traditions that have shaped the cultural landscape of the city. From the fusion of flavors to the historical significance of certain dishes, this program series offers a deep dive into the intersection of food, culture, and heritage in New Orleans.

Upcoming Culture & Heritage Events

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Past Culture & Heritage Events

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Cooking Demonstration with Chef Isaac Toups of Toups' Meatery

September 17, 2024

We hosted a special cooking event with Chef Isaac Toups of Toups’ Meatery, where he showcased his famous dirty rice recipe—a true testament to his family’s 300-year Louisiana culinary legacy. In this exclusive demonstration, Chef Toups guided attendees through the rich, flavorful process of crafting this beloved dish, drawing on deep-rooted traditions and local ingredients that make it a standout. As guests watched and learned, they also heard about the Toups family’s commitment to the community, including their remarkable effort in serving over 70,000 meals to ensure no child goes without through their non-profit Toups Family Meal. It was an opportunity to experience the authentic taste of New Orleans and the heartwarming spirit of a family dedicated to both food and community.

Participating Scholars

Ted Merwin

Senior Writer
  • Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)

Joseph Ewoodzie, Jr.

Associate Professor
  • Davidson College

Isaac Toups

Chef and Owner of Toups Meatery

Alon Shaya

Chef and Owner of Saba