I'm excited to welcome award-winning chef and food writer Amethyst Ganaway onto the pod as we delve into the history and culture of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West African slaves in the American South. Chef Amethyst shares the Gullah Geechee’s enduring West African heritage, spanning language, food, art, and music, while tracing the vital role they played in the economic boom of the American South through their cultivation of Carolina Gold rice. This fascinating conversation delves into how isolation along the coast preserved their unique culture and how their contributions have shaped both Southern and American foodways. We explore how Gullah Geechee traditions—especially in food—are deeply rooted in West African heritage, how Carolina Gold rice changed the course of U.S. history, and the resilience behind it all. Connect with Chef Amethyst: Instagram: @thizzg Online: www.waterwhippin.com Sign up for the newsletter!! Each month I'll be sending out a newsletter with insider tips Sign up ⁠HERE⁠!   ***Looking to experience the flavors we've explored firsthand?  Skip the stress of travel planning and work with a trusted professional to take care of all of that for you!   Travel Trails specializes in crafting unforgettable travel experiences tailored to your taste for adventure.  Don’t miss out on tasting these delicious dishes because you don’t have the time to plan.  Visit https://travel-trails.com/ to learn more and follow  @TastyTrailsTravelPod and @Travel.Trails___ on Instagram to stay up to date on episodes and all things food & travel