Ep 2. Porridge for the Soul

Somewhere South is a food and culture documentary show where Chef and author Vivian Howard explores the diverse food cultures of the American South. The show premiered its first season in March 2020 on PBS and is produced by Deep Run Productions.

In episode two titled "Porridge for the Soul," Vivian explores the culinary roots of her African American and Eastern Cherokee heritage. She travels to Louisville, Kentucky, to meet with Chef Edward Lee and learn about the traditional African American dish called okra soup.

Chef Lee takes Vivian to a local market to buy the ingredients for the dish. They explain the importance of using fresh ingredients and emphasize the role that food has played in African American culture. Okra soup is seen as a symbol of resilience and survival, as it is a dish that was often made with the scraps of meat and produce that were left over from other meals.

Vivian returns to her own kitchen in North Carolina to create her own version of okra soup. She explains the significance of the dish to her own family history, as her grandfather, who was an Eastern Cherokee, would often make a similar dish called bean porridge. Vivian uses the flavors and techniques from both dishes to create a unique and personal version of okra soup.

In addition to exploring her own family heritage, Vivian also meets with Dr. Lenora Helm Hammonds, who is a jazz vocalist and professor at North Carolina Central University. Dr. Helm Hammonds talks about the role that food and music have played in the African American community and how both can be seen as forms of cultural expression.

Towards the end of the episode, Vivian reflects on the importance of understanding one's own cultural heritage and how food can be an integral part of that understanding. She emphasizes the need for cultural preservation and acknowledges that food is just one aspect of our cultural histories.

Overall, "Porridge for the Soul" is a thought-provoking and insightful episode that explores the intersection of food and culture in the American South. Vivian Howard's personal connection to the topic and her passion for cultural preservation make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in the rich and diverse food cultures of the region.