Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. (CRNHA) will host a lunch and learn lecture entitled, “Smothered, Fried & Baked: A Discussion on Cane River Cooking Traditions with Connie Jones” Friday, Aug. 12 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Grand Ecore Visitor Center. A licensed nutritionist, Jones is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at Northwestern State University of Louisiana.

Jones will discuss the foods and cooking techniques that make Cane River cuisine stand out amongst traditional southern foods. Specifically, Jones will cover topics including the history of the Cane River meat pie, teacakes, southern fried, and smothered foods. Jones will hone in on what makes this region’s creole style food unique and examine themes like the Holy Trinity vs. Holy “Quad,” and the sustainability and economics of traditional food preservation techniques. “Connie Jones is entertaining and knowledgeable on all things food and we are delighted to hear what she has to share about Cane River’s unique cuisine,” said Steven Fullen, CRNHA’s Director of Interpretation.

Coffee, tea, and water will be provided to attendees. Participants are invited to bring a bag lunch. The lecture is free, but space is limited. RSVP to Steven Fullen at sfullen@canerivernha.org or at 318-356-5555.