Savoring Sepharad: A Tour of Sephardic Food and Identity from Medieval Spain to the Modern Diaspora
2323 Fremont Ave S
Minneapolis,
MN
55405
The Sephardic Diaspora lays claim to a varied repertoire of delicious dishes. But what are the origins of this culinary heritage? And how have the foods that define Sephardic identity changed throughout the community’s journey from a well-integrated religious minority in medieval Spain to a globe-spanning cultural network? In her talk, scholar and culinary historian, Sara M. Gardner, will explore the historic development of Sephardic culinary heritage and its connection to Sephardic cultural identity. Beyond the history, Sara will also share some of the vibrant recipes that define this delectable diasporic community, which the audience can make at home.
Sara M. Gardner, PhD, is a culinary historian and cooking instructor. Her scholarship explores the literature, culture, and cuisine of the Sephardic Jewish community from the medieval to the modern periods. A 2016-2017 Fulbright Graduate Research Scholar, she received her PhD in Spanish and Portuguese Studies from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in 2026. She has presented and published her academic work in many prestigious venues. Over the past decade, Sara has translated her expertise in and passion for Jewish foodways into a variety of creative and interactive projects, including a museum exhibition, culinary pop-ups and cooking workshops. In 2018, Sara published her first cookbook, titled The Rosh Hashanah Seder Cookbook: Stories and Recipes from the Reform Jewish Community of Madrid. Sara shares recipes found through her research and other learning opportunities on her online Jewish cooking school, Boka Dulse (www.bokadulse.com, @bokadulse on Instagram).