On this episode of the Port City Plate, we dive deep into the heart of gumbo and its rich history in Mobile with David Hubbell, a Louisiana historian and expert on Cajun cuisine. David is the "Royal Historian of the Royal Order of Gumbo", a local Joe Cain Day parading society. He is known around town as Mobile's "Mirliton Man."
David shares his fascinating genealogical journey, tracing his family's 300-year Louisiana ancestry and how his father's move to Mobile in 1986 influenced his culinary path. David also discusses in depth the distinctions between Cajun and Creole cuisines, revealing their unique historical and cultural roots.
This episode explores the similarities and differences between Mobile and traditional Louisiana cooking, noting the shared seafood ingredients and the unique vegetables used in each region. As the Royal Historian of the Royal Order of Gumbo, David shares the mission of this parading society, founded in 2020 by Jeremiah Woolsey. He recounts the lively debates about gumbo ingredients, such as okra and tomatoes, and the group's efforts to educate the public about the diverse interpretations of this beloved dish.
The highlight of the episode is David's discussion on the varieties of gumbo, its history, and whether Mobile can have a legitimate claim to being the "birthplace of gumbo." He delves into seasonal variations of gumbo and its origins, discussing the Native American, French, and African influences. David also highlights the classic Mobile gumbo, which includes okra, tomatoes, shrimp, crab meat, and oysters. He shares his passion for preserving heirloom recipes and discusses the cultivation and culinary uses of mirliton, a Latin American heirloom squash. Tune in for an episode that you do not want to miss as we journey through the Gulf Coast's unique food culture and the timeless appeal of gumbo in the Port City.
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