In the Fall 2022 issue of Forum, writer Vibiana Aparicio-Chamberlin (California State University, Long Beach) reflects on her frequent phone chats with fellow artist Luis Becerra – exchanges that sometimes touch on the Mexican dishes they grew up eating and still enjoy. If you missed Aparicio-Chamberlin’s story, you can read it here.

Aparicio-Chamberlin’s mouth-watering reminiscences got us thinking about family dishes in our own households that we might savor although they’re not familiar to everyone. For Forum editor Danny Heitman and his Louisiana family, they herald autumn by making the first pot of gumbo -- a hearty stew, usually featuring either sausage or seafood, that’s a centerpiece of Cajun culture.

Extend the conversation and share your favorite dishes from your regional or ethnic culture. We’d love to hear about it, and feel free to send pictures if you have any. Bon appétit, everyone, and happy autumn!

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