What inspired you to move to Portugal?
It was my lifelong dream to live in Europe by age 50. I wanted a better quality of life, and Portugal felt comfortable, like home.
When did you decide to start teaching cooking lessons?
I started cooking classes in Portugal this year. I wanted to teach the ways and methods of southern cuisine. Homemade biscuits and The Art of Frying Chicken are my two most popular classes.
What do you love about Southern cooking?
I love history, the stories, the culture, and the love put into making dishes from scratch.
What do people get most excited about learning how to cook?
They get excited most about learning how cooking is fun and is not intimidating once you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty and try. I love seeing their natural cooking skills develop and them showcasing their dishes with pride!
Favorite memory of a student learning about Southern food?
Favorite memory is a mother/daughter who took biscuit making class together. It reminded me of the importance of building legacy in the kitchen.
What is your favorite Southern food?
Fried chicken and homemade banana pudding. I make a mean one.
What is your other favorite cuisine to eat?
I like Southern, French, and Italian cuisine.
What ingredients can you not live without?
Garlic and onions. And every good southern kitchen must have Lawry’s seasoning salt and Old Bay.
Food mentor? Who inspired you to cook?
My grandmother, Mary Birdsong.
I wanted a better quality of life, and Portugal felt comfortable, like home.