~ eggplant blossom

In the United States, members of Slow Food USA's 200 chapters celebrate the amazing bounty of food that is available and work to strengthen the connection between the food on our plates and the health of our planet. Our members are involved in activities such as:

• Raising public awareness, improving access and encouraging the enjoyment of foods that are local, seasonal and sustainably grown
• Caring for the land and protecting biodiversity for today's communities and future generations
• Performing educational outreach within their communities and working with children in schools and through public programs
• Identifying, promoting and protecting fruits, vegetables, grains, animal breeds, wild foods and cooking traditions at risk of disappearance
• Advocating for farmers and artisans who grow, produce, market, prepare and serve wholesome food
• Promoting the celebration of food as a cornerstone of pleasure, culture and community

Cochon-de-lait

(fire roasted suckling pig) 

is a culinary tradition in Avoyelles Parish...

home of the Cochon-de-lait Festival in Mansura.  It's an all-day event, resplete with drinking, story-telling, and communing with friends & neighbors.  It ends, of course, with a feast!

The usual accompaniments are sweet potatoes, cole slaw, & maybe some pickled peppers or beets on the side.  These are all grown in many Avoyelles Parish gardens.

these beauties were pickled by Ricky Dupuy~

who usually sells out quick at the farmers' market! 

For more information:

www.slowfoodusa.org