Farm to Table: Foodways at Los Adaes

Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. (CRNHA) will host a tour of the heritage garden at Los Adaes State Historic Site on Friday, September 14, 2018  featuring a talk on historic foodways as well as samples of period dishes. 

From the archival records, it is known that the Spanish at Los Adaes had yearly struggles getting their crops to grow in the thick clay soil found in the region.  As a result, they relied heavily on their beef cattle and trade with their Native and French neighbors to supply them with food. Even today, agricultural operations in the western part of Natchitoches parish is mostly limited to the raising of cattle.  “We often look at historic structures or sites to provide us with a connection to a vanishing past.  Yet we often overlook what appears on our plates, and forget to ponder how this dish came into existence,” remarked CRNHA Ranger Michael Mumaugh.  “The Farm to Table presentation will allow visitors to look at heritage crops grown in the region as well as taste their unique flavor in a dish that is still being served today with modern ingredients,” continued Mumaugh.

Come out and explore the heritage garden at Los Adaes State Historic Site and learn about the crops that were grown, as well as meals that were eaten at Los Adaes.  During the 30 minute program, samples of some of the dishes served at Los Adaes will be offered.  Moreover, a majority of the ingredients came from the heritage garden!  So come enjoy this cultural exploration of “farm to table”. School Groups are welcomed. We just ask that you call us before September 7th with a headcount. This is an outdoor program, so groups are also encouraged to bring blankets to sit on, as seating will be limited.