​Flavors of Arizona: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Cuisine
by Jeffrey Lazos Ferns
 
This past weekend, we successfully hosted Flavors of Arizona: A Journey Through Native Culinary Heritage at the Great Arizona Puppet Theater. The experience, unique in its celebration of our collective efforts and dedication, was a profound testament to the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience. As the producer and founder of this exceptional culinary journey, witnessing our vision come to life in such a meaningful way was a source of immense pride and accomplishment.
 
The Great Arizona Puppet Theater, with its rich history of entertaining audiences for 40 years, was the perfect setting for our event. Its intimate and inviting ambiance added an extra layer of charm and warmth to our celebration. Just as the theater has been a place of wonder and joy for decades, it provided a backdrop that perfectly complemented the spirit of the night, delighting attendees with its character and history.
 
The evening was more than just a showcase of Native Arizona’s rich culinary traditions—it was a powerful gathering of our community, coming together to honor and celebrate the flavors that have been a part of our land for centuries. Walking through the event, I was deeply moved by the unity and connection that filled the space, a beautiful reminder of why I started this journey: to create a space where we can share our stories, our food, and our culture with one another, and to foster a sense of belonging and togetherness.
 
The dishes presented were a true testament to the creativity and resilience of our Native chefs and culinary artists. Each plate was not just food but a narrative—a reflection of the land, the people, and the heritage that make Arizona’s culinary landscape so unique. From the smoky richness of mesquite-grilled meats to the subtle sweetness of traditional desert fruits, the flavors told stories of tradition, adaptation, and pride.
 
What touched me most, though, was the incredible sense of community. It was heartening to see people from all backgrounds come together to celebrate Native culinary traditions. The joy in the room was palpable as old friends reconnected and new friendships were forged over shared meals. This event wasn’t just about food but building bridges and creating a space where everyone felt welcomed and valued.
 
The performances by Native Art Market artists added an extra layer of depth to the evening. Arts and culture are the heartbeat of any thriving community and seeing them so beautifully integrated into our event reminded us of their vital role in our lives. They are not just entertainment but expressions of who we are and what we stand for. They are the threads that weave us together, reminding us of our shared histories and collective potential.
 
Flavors of Arizona was a night that affirmed everything I believe in, including the importance of honoring our roots, the power of community, and the role of arts and culture in creating a more inclusive and vibrant future. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who came out to support this event. Your presence and contributions were invaluable, and I want to express my heartfelt thanks. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you. Together, we can keep celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Native Arizona, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.

​ Exploring Arizona's Indigenous Culinary Heritage: A Day in the Test Kitchen
By Jeffrey Lazos Ferns
 
I spent the afternoon in a test kitchen with Belin Denella, Appolon Lewis, and Angelica Y. Martinez, sampling and testing menu items for the Condé Nast event in September. I always know when a dish is a hit, it sends me into sensory overdrive. Lamb, rabbit, trout, elk, duck, mesquite, cholla cactus, corn in many reincarnations, prickly pear, chia seeds, amaranth, chiltepin, and desert hare were just a few of the Indigenous Arizona flavors we are testing. I am confident the final menu will represent the rich tapestry of our culinary heritage.
 
Nella and Mark are excellent chefs, working seamlessly together. I especially enjoy writing about the experience during the experimentation, building the narrative around the event, and exploring the ingredients' edible, medicinal, geographical, and cultural origins. Given our rich indigenous foodways here in Arizona and being tasked with representing Northern, Central, and Southern foodways, this is no easy task. Yet, I believe we are onto something special with this menu. Below are a few of the ingredients we are testing that are indigenous to Arizona.
 
 Edible, Medicinal, Geographical, and Cultural Origins of Ingredients
 
Desert Hare 
The desert hare, or jackrabbit, is a vital part of the ecosystem and has been a traditional food source for many Indigenous tribes in Arizona. Its lean meat is valued for its flavor and nutritional content. Hunting and preparing desert hares involves traditional knowledge and techniques passed down through generations, emphasizing the deep connection to the land and wildlife.
 
Lamb and Rabbit 
While not traditionally Indigenous, these meats have been integrated into modern Native cuisine. Raised in ways that respect the environment and the animals, lamb and rabbit represent a bridge between past and present, showing how Indigenous foodways adapt and evolve.
 
 
Trout and Elk 
Trout and elk have been vital to the diets of Arizona's Indigenous peoples. The cold, clear waters of Northern Arizona's streams and rivers provide ideal habitats for trout, a staple for tribes like the Hualapai and Hopi. Elk, abundant in the forests and grasslands, have long been hunted for their meat, hides, and antlers, providing sustenance and materials for tools and clothing.
 
Duck 
Duck hunting has historical significance for tribes in Arizona's wetlands and river valleys. Ducks are a food source and feature in various cultural practices and ceremonies, emphasizing the deep connection between the people and their natural surroundings.
 
Mesquite 
Mesquite trees throughout Arizona are more than just hardy desert flora. Indigenous peoples have long used mesquite pods as a food source, grinding them into flour for bread and cakes. The tree also holds medicinal value, used to treat ailments such as sore throats and digestive issues.
 
Cholla Cactus 
With its bright blossoms and spiny branches, the cholla cactus has provided food and medicine. When harvested and prepared correctly, the buds offer a nutritious addition to the diet. Medicinally, cholla has been used to treat wounds and other health concerns.
 
Corn
Corn, or maize, is central to many Indigenous cultures in Arizona. It is used in various forms: roasted, ground into flour, or made into hominy. Corn also holds cultural significance in ceremonies and storytelling, symbolizing life and growth.
 
Prickly Pear
With its vibrant fruit, the prickly pear cactus is another cornerstone of Indigenous cuisine. The pads and fruit are edible and have medicinal properties, such as treating wounds and digestive issues. The prickly pear also represents resilience and adaptation, thriving in the harsh desert environment.
 
Chia Seeds and Amaranth
Chia seeds and amaranth are ancient grains cultivated by tribes such as the Pima and Tohono O’odham. They are nutritional powerhouses rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids. These grains are also tied to cultural practices, symbolizing strength and endurance.
 
Chiltepin 
Chiltepin, a wild chili pepper native to the Southwest, packs a punch in flavor and cultural significance. It is used in traditional dishes for its heat and medicinally for its pain-relieving properties. It is important to note that the chiltepin is native to the US-Mexico borderlands and has a long history of use in this region. They are considered the “mother of all peppers” as they are the only wild chile native to the United States. The Chiltepin's importance in these cultures is reflected in its continued use over thousands of years and in efforts to preserve its cultivation and wild harvesting traditions.
Inspired by rich traditions, our menu honors the deep connections between food, culture, and the land. Each ingredient tells a story of survival, adaptation, and respect for nature.
 
Food is Medicine: A Pre-Colonial Concept
 
The concept of "food is medicine" is deeply rooted in the traditions and practices of the Indigenous peoples of Arizona, long before the advent of modern medicine and colonial influence. In pre-colonial times, food was not merely a means of sustenance but was intertwined with health, spirituality, and community well-being.
 
Holistic Health Practices 
Indigenous cultures viewed health holistically, understanding that physical, mental, and spiritual well-being were interconnected. Food played a crucial role in maintaining this balance. Ingredients were chosen not only for their nutritional value but also for their healing properties. For instance, mesquite pods were ground into flour to create nutrient-rich foods that provided sustained energy and stabilized blood sugar levels, acting as a preventative measure against illness.
 
Medicinal Properties of Plants 
Plants such as the cholla cactus, prickly pear, and amaranth were integral to Indigenous diets, valued for their medicinal benefits. Cholla buds were known to aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while prickly pear pads and fruit were used to treat wounds and gastrointestinal issues. Amaranth, rich in protein and amino acids, supported muscle health and provided essential nutrients for overall well-being.
 
Cultural and Spiritual Significance 
The cultivation, harvesting, and preparation of food were imbued with cultural and spiritual significance. Corn, for example, was seen as a sacred gift from the gods, symbolizing life and growth. Ceremonial practices often included offerings of food to the spirits, seeking blessings for health and prosperity. This deep respect for food reinforced the idea that what we consume directly impacts our health and the harmony of our community.
 
Sustainable and Ethical Practices 
Indigenous foodways emphasized sustainability and ethical practices. Hunting and gathering were conducted with respect for the environment, ensuring that resources were not depleted. This sustainable approach ensured a continuous supply of nutritious food, supporting long-term health. Using every part of an animal or plant also minimizes waste and maximizes the nutritional and medicinal benefits derived from each source.
 
Community and Knowledge Sharing
Knowledge about the healing properties of food was shared within communities and passed down through generations. Elders played a crucial role in educating younger members about the preparation and uses of various ingredients, ensuring that this wisdom continued to benefit future generations. This communal approach to health fostered a strong sense of community and collective responsibility for each other's well-being.
 
Incorporating these traditional perspectives into our menu for the Condé Nast event allows us to honor and celebrate the profound wisdom of Arizona's Indigenous peoples. By understanding and embracing the concept of food as medicine, we can create dishes that nourish both body and soul, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of our region.
 
We are hosting a pre-NYC tasting at the Great Arizona Puppet Theater in August. Check out the theater’s website for information if you are interested in attending. In addition to the menu, we will also include an Indigenous Teas of Arizona tasting.

https://www.azpuppets.org/
 
❤️❤️❤️ 
#foodismedicine 
#storytellingthroughfood 
#indigenous

San Xavier Coop
by Jeffrey Lazos Ferns

 
My recent visit to Tucson, Arizona, included a meeting and journey into the unique beauty of the desert and the warmth of the Tohono O'odham community. My colleague Donna Warren and I met with San Xavier Co-op, inviting the farm to participate in the Arizona Indigenous Food Symposium.
 
 
After the meeting, as I stood observing the lush fields of Alfalfa on the San Xavier Co-op Farm, memories of my childhood flooded back. I remembered how my mother would make pilgrimages to the nearby San Xavier Mission, her face serene as she lit candles in prayer to her patron saints. Those visits always felt sacred, a connection to something greater than ourselves.
 
As I grew older, I continued visiting the mission, drawn by its beauty and sense of peace. But I never knew the whole story of the land around it. I had no idea about the incredible work at the co-op farm, which was just a stone's throw away.
 
This visit to the San Xavier Co-op has been a revelation. Learning about their commitment to preserving traditional Tohono O'odham farming practices and crops has deepened my appreciation for this community in ways I never expected. I now understand that the sacred nature of this place extends far beyond the mission walls into the very soil that has sustained the O'odham people for millennia.
 
Seeing the alfalfa springing to life with the monsoon rains, and hearing about the massive ha:l squash that can grow up to 20 pounds, I felt a newfound respect for the agricultural wisdom passed down through generations. The co-op's dedication to sustainable farming practices, avoiding synthetic chemicals, and respecting the land resonates deeply with the values my mother instilled in me throughout my life.
 
I'm struck by how the co-op is a living bridge between past and present. It's not just preserving traditions; it's adapting them to meet current challenges and ensure a sustainable future. The farm's role in reclaiming water rights and revitalizing the Santa Cruz River for future generations is just one of many remarkable facets of this farm.
 
This visit has transformed my connection to San Xavier. What was once simply a place of childhood memory and spiritual comfort has become a symbol of resilience, cultural preservation, and community strength. The co-op's work in education, partnering with local schools and food banks, and providing a space for elders to pass on traditional knowledge shows a commitment to the future that's genuinely inspiring.
 
As I prepare to leave, looking back at the mission from the San Xavier Co-op Farm, I know that my return is now to visit the historic mission and experience, tour, and, yes, even work in the fertile fields surrounding it. It's a powerful reminder that our connections to place and community can grow more profound and more meaningful over time if we take the time to learn and understand.
To learn more about the San Xavier Coop visit their website at https://www.sanxaviercoop.org/

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I am Jeffrey Lazos Ferns, creator, and producer of the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience; I am a cultural worker with a lifelong passion for Indigenous foodways. My Indigenous food journey began in the Sonoran Desert, a place of my ancestors, the agricultural fields my family worked in, and the home gardens my mother and grandmothers tended. In these places, my classrooms were the plant medicines of my ancestors, the understanding and undertaking of circle gardening and its relation to nature, the human body, and nature’s sustainability.  My mother instilled a deep respect for the land and its bounty, teaching me the importance of preserving our cultural heritage through the foods we grow and the medicines we make.  This legacy of working with the earth continues to inspire my work today as I strive to honor and revitalize the rich culinary traditions of our Indigenous relatives. I will share my journey, producing the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience and the remarkable humans from many cultures who continue to lead, teach, and forge new pathways in this movement.
 
Twila Cassadore
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 Twila Cassadore, a remarkable woman from the San Carlos Apache Tribe, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration in the realm of cultural preservation. Her unwavering commitment to revitalizing traditional Apache foodways is a testament to the power of one individual's dedication.
 
From the moment I met Twila, I was struck by her deep connection to her heritage and her unwavering commitment to keeping her people's traditions alive. For decades, Twila has dedicated herself to documenting and sharing the culinary practices passed down through generations. She is a forager, educator, and captivating storyteller.
 
I remember the times we spent together at Oak Flats, Arizona, where Twila would share her personal stories, and we would gather plants and seeds and discuss the sacredness of this place for her community. She would explain the significance of each ingredient in her community and the wild. Her hands-on approach and infectious enthusiasm made learning an immersive experience. She taught me that preserving these foodways is more than sustenance; it's about reconnecting with our roots and fostering a sense of pride and identity within our communities.
 
Twila's work extends far beyond the kitchen. She collaborates with various organizations and educational institutions, conducting workshops, presentations, and interactive sessions to pass on her invaluable knowledge. Her efforts have garnered attention from media outlets and documentaries, helping to highlight the importance of indigenous food systems and cultural preservation.
 
What impresses me most about Twila is her dedication to environmental stewardship and protecting sacred lands. She understands the intrinsic link between cultural practices, ecological sustainability, and the well-being of her community. Through her advocacy, she preserves traditions and safeguards the natural world that is so integral to those traditions.
 
Twila Cassadore’s unwavering commitment to her culture and people is truly inspiring. She has left an indelible mark on me and countless others, ensuring that the rich traditions of the San Carlos Apache Tribe will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Twila has been a valued part of our program at every Indigenous Culinary Experience.  We hope to see her again this year.
 
If you like to know more about Twila visit her Instagram site https://www.instagram.com/twila_cassadore_/

​Scottsdale’s Native Ties 
by Jeffrey Lazos Ferns

Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale, Arizona, is more than just a picturesque city; it is a vibrant hub for Native art, culture, and fashion. The origins of this cultural tapestry can be traced back thousands of years to the Indigenous peoples who first inhabited the region, such as the Hohokam (also known as Huhugam). These early communities cultivated the land, creating intricate canal systems and leaving a strong and beautiful legacy behind. The O’odham descendants of the Huhugam continue to inspire today via their artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural practices. 

The Sonoran Mountain Preserve, a sprawling natural area surrounding Scottsdale, holds significant ties to the Hohokam. These ancient people lived harmoniously with the land, developing advanced agricultural techniques and utilizing native plants for food, medicine, and art. The Preserve's rich biodiversity remains a living testament to its ingenuity and deep connection to the environment. The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation also has a long and deep connection to the Sonoran desert and McDowell Mountains. Their ancestors once occupied about 10 million acres across southern, central, and northern Arizona. They lived, hunted, cultivated, gathered plants, and sought spiritual guidance from these lands and water from the sacred Verde River.

As European settlers arrived in the 19th century, they were captivated by the unique artistic expressions of the Native American tribes, including the O’odham, Navajo, Hopi, Apache, and more. This interest led to a burgeoning market for Native arts and crafts, which found a significant foothold in Scottsdale. By the early 20th century, the city had established itself as a center for art and culture, attracting artists and collectors alike.

Scottsdale's establishment as an art colony in the 1930s further cemented its reputation. Artists flocked to the area, drawn by its natural beauty and the rich cultural heritage of the Native tribes. This era saw the rise of art galleries and studios dedicated to showcasing Native art, ranging from traditional pottery and weaving to contemporary paintings and sculptures.

A pivotal figure in Scottsdale’s fashion scene was Lloyd Kiva New, a Cherokee designer who brought Native American fashion to the forefront. In the 1950s, Lloyd Kiva New opened a boutique in Scottsdale, introducing innovative designs that fused traditional Native American patterns and techniques with contemporary fashion. His work garnered national and international attention and inspired a new generation of Native designers to explore their cultural heritage through fashion. He was the Founding President of the Institute of American Indian Arts in Sante Fe, and his legacy is still relevant. The  Institute continues to foster the artistic development of generations of Native American students in all disciplines of the Arts. 

Scottsdale's unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Native culture is also evident in its culinary scene. The city celebrates indigenous foodways by incorporating Sonoran Desert ingredients like mesquite, prickly pear, and cholla buds into contemporary dishes. Local chefs often draw from Native American traditions to create menus that honor the land and its original inhabitants. This dedication is something to be appreciated, as it offers residents and visitors a taste of the region’s rich heritage. Each November, celebrating Native American Heritage Month, the City supports the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience. Its host venue is the beautiful LEED-certified Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. The event is a curated experience. Indigenous Arizona Chefs create contemporary and traditional dishes with ancestral ingredients in a celebratory and elegant atmosphere. 

A highlight of Scottsdale’s cultural calendar is the two-day Arizona Indian Festival, held annually as part of Scottsdale’s Western Week. This two-day festival brings together all 22 Arizona tribes in one setting where visitors can experience the distinctive cultures of Native Arizona, including their dwellings, traditions, ceremonial performances, and arts and crafts. In addition, this vibrant event celebrates the diverse cultures of Arizona’s Native American tribes through a packed stage performance of music, dance, and storytelling featuring the most remote tribal participation of the Havasupai from the bottom of the Grand Canyon.  The festival provides an immersive experience for attendees, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Native traditions.
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In fashion, Scottsdale has become a nexus for Native designers who blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. Events like the Scottsdale Fashion Week, feature collections from Native designers, highlighting the innovation and creativity within the community.
Today, Scottsdale stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy of Native American culture. It is a place where art, tradition, culinary excellence, and contemporary expression converge to create a vibrant, dynamic cultural landscape, inviting all to connect with its rich history.

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