The Moreish Podcast: Caribbean History, Culture, and Cuisine

Hema Ramsingh
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More than jerk chicken, beaches and Carnival, the cultures of the Caribbean is unique and diverse with influences from all over the world. Join Hema and guests on The Moreish Podcast as they talk about the history of the Caribbean, and how history influences current day culture and cuisine. The Moreish Podcast: Where Caribbean history meets culture and cuisine. What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a rating and review. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

  1. Jamaica: The connection between salt and spirituality with Alyssa Bertrand (Sperry)

    6D AGO

    Jamaica: The connection between salt and spirituality with Alyssa Bertrand (Sperry)

    How salt shaped Jamaica’s culture and subcultures Hema is joined by Alyssa Bertrand Sperry, a retired pastry chef turned academic and historian, about her research on the historical and cultural significance of salt in Jamaica. Starting with the colonial era and the Spanish followed by the British, they explore the transition of Jamaica from a salt-producing island to a sugar-centric economy, the role of women in salt production, and the spiritual and practical implications of salt in the lives of Jamaican Maroon and Rastafarian communities. Alyssa shares how she got the nickname ‘Salt Woman’ and the amusing quest to find an out-of-the-way salt pond in Jamaica, complete with rum and a game of dominoes. Alyssa talks about her research methodology and the importance of honouring the voices of the communities she studied. The conversation highlights the multifaceted nature of salt, its impact on culture, and the ongoing relevance in understanding Caribbean history. About Alyssa Bertrand (Sperry) Alyssa Bertrand (Sperry) is a leading expert on salt, and its relationship to Jamaican culture(s). As a former chef, and historical ethnographer she provides insight into the role salt played in the development of culture and identities among the Maroons and Rastafarians by understanding salt’s role during the Atlantic Slave Trade and how it shaped the cultural identities of the past and present. Alyssa received her master’s degree at the Department of Global Studies at the University of Oregon and her bachelor’s degree at Washington State University in Anthropology and History. Alyssa has received numerous awards and grants for her research including the Oregon International Research Grant, Folger Shakespeare Library Scholarship, and Library Research Excellence Award at Washington State University. Alyssa is also a contributing writer to the books Salt in Eastern North America and the Caribbean (University of Alabama Press, 2021) and Women Who Changed the World (ABC-CLIO, 2021). She also published an article in the World History Connected, “Eating Jamaica: How Food is Used to as a Tool to Create and Reinforce Cultural Identity,” (Vol. 18, No.1, 2021). Currently, Alyssa serves on the board of Friends of Jamaica, a non-profit organization, helping to raise funds and provide grants to community-based projects around the island of Jamaica. Resources and Links Remembering Jah Calo William Berryman art Episodes Referenced Caribbean Foodways with Dr. Candice Goucher Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    56 min
  2. Book Talk: The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean with Sharika D. Crawford

    FEB 3

    Book Talk: The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean with Sharika D. Crawford

    The Story of the Turtlemen: Navigating the Waters of Caribbean History Who are the turtlemen of the Cayman Islands? In this episode of The Moreish Podcast, Sharika Crawford, historian and author of The Last Turtleman of the Caribbean delves into the history and cultural significance of sea turtle hunting in the Caribbean, particularly focusing on the turtlemen of the Cayman Islands. She discusses the rich maritime culture that has often been overshadowed by plantation histories in the Caribbean, how turtle hunting evolved from a subsistence activity to a commercial enterprise, driven by demand for turtle meat and tortoiseshell products in global markets, the socio-economic dynamics of turtle hunting, including the class structures that emerged and the environmental implications. Connect with Sharika Crawford www.sharikacrawford.com https://x.com/SharikaCrawfo17 The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean Waterscapes of Labor, Conservation, and Boundary Making Episodes referenced Caribbean Foodways with Dr. Candice Goucher Resources and Articles Lions in Africa: Lincoln University Alumni in Kwame Nkrumah’s Ghana, 1951–1966 Dr. Archie Carr The Sea Around Us, Rachel Carson Peter Matthiessen World History Connected review of The Last Turtlemen Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    1h 14m
  3. Book Talk: Exploring Caribbean Heritage Through Food with Marie Mitchell

    JAN 20

    Book Talk: Exploring Caribbean Heritage Through Food with Marie Mitchell

    We'd love to hear from you! Exploring Caribbean Identity, Food, and Family Stories with Marie Mitchell Marie Mitchell, a chef, writer, and author of Kin: Caribbean Recipes for the Modern Kitchen joins Hema to talk about her Caribbean heritage and stories through the lens of her narrative cookbook,  that blends Caribbean history, culture, and cuisine.  Marie’s book shares an intimate look at her family's journey, sadness & joy, and their resilience, plus her personal journey of connecting with her roots through cooking. Highlighting the significance of her family's legacy and the broader Caribbean experience, Marie's insights offer a profound exploration of identity, loss, and resilience. Listen to discover how food can serve as a bridge to understanding and celebrating the vibrant and layered Caribbean culture. Connect with Marie MitchellWebsite  Instagram  Slow Rituals on Substack Kin: Caribbean Recipes for the Modern Kitchen  Episodes mentioned:Culinary Colonialism with Keja Valens Photo Credit: Chiron Cole Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content.Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    54 min
  4. The Repair Campaign: Caribbean Reparations Explained with Brian Royes

    JAN 6

    The Repair Campaign: Caribbean Reparations Explained with Brian Royes

    We'd love to hear from you! Understanding Reparations and Caribbean Justice with Brian Royce, Campaign Manager for The Repair Campaign Hema is joined by Brian Royes, Campaign Manager for The Repair Campaign, an organization that amplifies for the call for former colonial powers to acknowledge their role in the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans. They delve into CARICOM's 10-point plan for reparations and reparatory justice, emphasizing the importance of an apology and accountability from those who benefitted from chattel slavery, the long-term socioeconomic and cultural impacts still being felt today, and the critical role of education on the topic. Brian passionately shares the necessity for reparations to foster true development and equity in the Caribbean.  The Repair Campaign is an advocacy organisation supporting the Caribbean's reparatory justice movement guided by CARICOM's Ten-Point Plan for Reparatory Justice. We call on the UK and other European governments, institutions and individuals who perpetrated and benefited from chattel slavery and its legacy to apologise for these atrocities and commit to repair. We ask all who stand with this call to show their support by signing in solidarity at repaircampaign.org/sign.  Instagram  Facebook  TikTok  Connect with Brian Instagram  YouTube  Resources CARICOM Reparations Commission  CARICOM 10 Point Plan for Reparatory Justice  Mapping the Legacy of Slavery in London’s Docklands  Heirs of Slavery  William Gladstone’s Family apologises for role in slave trade   Olaudah Equiano: Writer & Abolitionist Episodes referenced Slave Voyages: Documenting the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade with Dr. Gregory O’Malley and Dr. Nafees M. Khan  Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content.Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    54 min
  5. Indo-Caribbean Canadian Culture & Community: A Conversation with Ryan Singh

    12/23/2025

    Indo-Caribbean Canadian Culture & Community: A Conversation with Ryan Singh

    We'd love to hear from you! The Indo-Caribbean Canadian Experience with Ryan Singh In the last full episode of 2025, Hema is joined by Ryan Singh, the Founder of the Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association (ICCA). They explore the nuances of Indo-Caribbean identity, the impact of colonial history, and the struggle for cultural recognition in Canada.  Ryan shares the origin story and mission of ICCA, various community programs such as youth mentorship, support for single parents, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, plus the Share Yuh Rice initiative that brought the Association to Hema’s attention. Share Yuh Rice aims to provide culturally appropriate food to food banks at Christmas and throughout the year. Ryan talks about one of their big initiatives being led by the ICCA with participation from Caribbean organizations around the country: the petition for establishing a Caribbean Heritage Month in Canada, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation, community engagement, and the intergenerational evolution of Indo-Caribbean traditions. Links & Resources Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association Donate to the Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association  Caribbean Heritage Month in Canada Barbados House Montreal Episodes referenced: Two Times Removed with Tiara Jade Chutkhan  Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    47 min
  6. Caribbean Christmas: Traditions, Folktales, and Togetherness with Kesha Christie

    12/20/2025 · BONUS

    Caribbean Christmas: Traditions, Folktales, and Togetherness with Kesha Christie

    We'd love to hear from you! Caribbean Christmas Traditions and an Anansi story with Kesha Christie In the final Caribbean folklore episode of 2025, Kesha shares some traditions and unique ways different Caribbean nations celebrate at Christmas, including bamboo bursting and Junkanoo, plus some of the favourite food & drink made at the end of the year. Of course, an episode with Kesha is not complete without a folktale and this time it’s Anansi and Sorrel. Listen to more Caribbean folklore episodes Exploring Caribbean Folklore with Kesha Christie Trickster Tales Anansi's Antics in Antigua & Barbuda The Power of Pataki Stories in Cuba A Lizard's Lesson Making a Deal with Death The Lady and Her Three Sons Connect with Kesha To learn more about Kesha and her work, visit http://www.talkintales.ca Instagram Facebook TikTok Walk Good podcast Children’s Book: Mama Keeya’s Garden Recipes from past guests Teri’s Food Therapy Vodka Sorrel Fizz  Teri’s Food Therapy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham  3 Caribbean Recipes from Belly Full by Lesley Enston  Recipes by Keshia Sakarah on YouTube  Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    37 min
  7. Caribbean Folklore: The Lantern in the Cane Field, A Chinese-Caribbean Folktale with Kesha Christie

    12/09/2025

    Caribbean Folklore: The Lantern in the Cane Field, A Chinese-Caribbean Folktale with Kesha Christie

    We'd love to hear from you! Exploring the Untold Stories of Chinese-Caribbean Heritage  In this episode, storyteller and frequent guest Kesha Christie dives into the often-overlooked Chinese-Caribbean heritage, exploring folktales and oral histories that highlight the rich cultural fusion in the Caribbean.  Kesha talks about her research journey uncovering the often untold Chinese-Caribbean stories from Trinidad, Guyana, and Jamaica. The folktale 'The Lantern in the Cane Field,' brings in recognizable Chinese symbols like the dragon and lantern into Caribbean setting. Resources Event: Surfacing - Chinese Caribbean Intellectual Thought and Creative Practice https://sites.google.com/view/surfacing-2025 organized by the Chinese Caribbean Studies Network What is Hakka Chinese? https://caribbeanchinese.ca/Hakka-Chinese  Listen to more Caribbean folklore episodes Exploring Caribbean Folklore with Kesha Christie Trickster Tales Anansi's Antics in Antigua & Barbuda The Power of Pataki Stories in Cuba A Lizard's Lesson Making a Deal with Death The Lady and Her Three Sons Connect with Kesha To learn more about Kesha and her work, visit http://www.talkintales.ca Instagram Facebook TikTok Walk Good podcast Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    26 min
  8. Book Talk: Belly Full Cookbook, Caribbean Food & Ingredients with Lesley Enston

    11/25/2025

    Book Talk: Belly Full Cookbook, Caribbean Food & Ingredients with Lesley Enston

    We'd love to hear from you! Caribbean Cuisine with Lesley Enston, author of Belly Full: Exploring Caribbean Cuisine Through 11 Fundamental Ingredients and Over 100 Recipes [A Cookbook] Join Hema and Lesley as they talk about Caribbean cuisine and history through the lens of Lesley's debut cookbook Belly Full, where she delves into Caribbean food through 11 fundamental ingredients. In this episode, Lesley shares her personal background and family stories, some of her favourite dishes, and her views on Caribbean cuisine. She describes the cultural melting pot that is Caribbean food as the world's first fusion cuisine, and highlights the importance of documenting traditional recipes and preserving culinary heritage while embracing adaptation and innovation.  Lesley also talks about the diverse influences on Caribbean cuisine, her process of writing the cookbook, and the nuances of different island dishes.  Connect with Lesley on Instagram Find her book: Belly Full: Exploring Caribbean Cuisine Through 11 Fundamental Ingredients and Over 100 Recipes [A Cookbook] Lesley Enston, Contributor Bon Appétit BEM Bookstore in Brooklyn, NY Episodes referenced: Caribbean Culinary History with Keshia Sakarah Support the show What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider supporting the show to help us continue to make great content. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

    46 min
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About

More than jerk chicken, beaches and Carnival, the cultures of the Caribbean is unique and diverse with influences from all over the world. Join Hema and guests on The Moreish Podcast as they talk about the history of the Caribbean, and how history influences current day culture and cuisine. The Moreish Podcast: Where Caribbean history meets culture and cuisine. What is moreish? | more·​ish ˈmōrish | informal, of food, causing a desire for more If you are enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a rating and review. Join us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/jerk-sauce

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