James Beard Foundation’s Taste America in NOLA

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — The James Beard Foundation will host a special dinner on Thursday night, Oct. 10 to support good practices and good people in the restaurant industry.

It’s called “The Taste America Series.”

“Khyber lamb chops with rogan josh and kichdi. It’s a 35-year-old dish developed by my father. The lamb is from New Zealand, marinated in Jamaican Rum, Kashmiri chili, coriander, garlic and ginger, and black peppercorn, the spices are endless. But because of that rum marinate, it will penetrate the meat so beautifully and it is not a fork and knife dish, you pick it up and you eat it!” said Saffron chef Ashwin Vilkhu.

Vilkhu’s mouth-watering lamb chops are but one of the main star dishes on tap for the culinary series in New Orleans.

The series is a rare gathering of local chefs and there are dishes. All stars in their own right including this 2024’s Beard Award Winner Serigne Mbaye. Each chef hopes their participation elevates their industry

“I love to be a part of this movement, it’s such a privilege to be a part of such a great group of chefs and for me, it’s such a commitment for a better culinary world,” said Brasa chef, Edgar Caro.

Proceeds from the Taste America event at the Sazarac House benefit the foundation’s effort to support equality, sustainability and women’s leadership.

Caro is also serving a signature dish.

“I call it posta negra. It’s a right flavorful dish that I braise local Wagyu beef with tamarind, panela and other spices and it embodies Colombian cuisine and traditions,” said Caro

This unique event is sure to satisfy your appetite while helping move the culinary world forward.

“Good Food for Good, it means everything for us as a chef,” said Vilkhu.

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