In the rugged landscapes of Newfoundland, a deep connection exists between food, culture, and nature. At the heart of this relationship is Food Culture Place, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Newfoundland’s rich food heritage. Founded by Lori McCarthy, Food Culture Place blends tradition, sustainability, and hands-on learning experiences to connect people with the land and sea in a way that’s both delicious and meaningful. Through foraging, fishing, and traditional culinary practices, Food Culture Place invites you to explore the taste of Newfoundland.
Meet Lori McCarthy – The Heart Behind Food Culture Place
Lori McCarthy is a passionate advocate for Newfoundland’s food traditions. A forager, hunter, and chef, Lori grew up immersed in the natural beauty of Newfoundland, and over time, her appreciation for the island’s food culture grew into a lifelong mission.
Today, she is the driving force behind Food Culture Place, using her knowledge to teach others about the importance of preserving local culinary traditions. Lori is not only a hands-on teacher but also an inspiring speaker, having delivered a TED talk on the significance of Newfoundland’s food heritage titled: Newfoundland food, Heritage, and finding a sense of belonging wherever you are.
The Mission: Preserving Culture Through Food
At its core, Food Culture Place is about more than just food—it’s about connecting people with the cultural and environmental roots of Newfoundland’s culinary traditions. Lori and her team are dedicated to preserving these traditions while fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature. Their mission is to inspire people to appreciate the “taste of place,” promoting sustainability and mindfulness in food sourcing. Through workshops and guided experiences, they help participants understand the profound connection between food, culture, and nature.
Workshops and Culinary Experiences
Food Culture Place offers a variety of workshops that go beyond the kitchen, providing immersive experiences that connect people with Newfoundland’s natural environment. From foraging in the forests and along the coastlines to learning traditional fishing techniques, these workshops are designed to give participants a hands-on understanding of where their food comes from. Lori leads these experiences, teaching participants how to source, prepare, and cook with locally foraged ingredients. Every workshop is a blend of education and adventure, creating lasting memories and valuable skills.
Foraging Adventures in Newfoundland
The Importance of Taste of Place
Food as a Cultural Story
A Collaboration with Marsha Tulk – Traditional Foods
One of the standout features of Food Culture Place is its collaboration with Marsha Tulk, a local food expert who shares Lori’s commitment to preserving Newfoundland’s culinary heritage. Together, they work to keep traditional recipes alive, offering workshops that explore age-old food preparation techniques.
From salt-cured fish to traditional berry preserves, their partnership brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, ensuring that these practices are passed on to future generations. Their dedication to authentic food experiences gives visitors an intimate look into the heart of Newfoundland’s food culture.
The Book: A Culinary Guide to Newfoundland
The book Food Culture Place – stories, traditions, and recipes of Newfoundland was published in 2021 by Lori McCarthy and Marsha Tulk won the title of Best in the World, in the food heritage category, at the Gormand world cookbook awards.
The book features not only recipes but also stories and historical insights into the island’s culinary past. It’s a celebration of Newfoundland’s rich food traditions and a resource for those looking to recreate these dishes in their own kitchens. Readers can expect a journey through Newfoundland’s landscapes and flavors, with Lori’s expertise guiding them every step of the way.
Food Culture in the Media
Lori McCarthy’s work has not gone unnoticed. Food Culture Place has been featured in a variety of prominent media outlets, showcasing Lori’s dedication to preserving Newfoundland’s culinary heritage. She has appeared on CNN’s The Ultimate Traveller, National Geographic, and Canadian Geographic, sharing her knowledge and passion with a global audience. These features highlight the importance of Newfoundland’s food culture and Lori’s role in bringing it to the world’s attention.
Foraging and Feasting: A Newfoundland Experience
Food Culture Place offers a complete foraging-to-feasting experience, where participants first learn how to forage for ingredients and then use them to create a delicious meal. These seasonal experiences showcase the diversity of Newfoundland’s natural resources, from springtime berries and greens to autumn mushrooms and wild game. The foraging-to-feasting experience is a true immersion in Newfoundland’s culinary culture, giving participants the skills to find and cook their own food in harmony with nature. Foraging and feasting is now offered through the Cultural Residency, a three-day experience.
Fishing Traditions in Newfoundland
Newfoundland’s fishing heritage is another key aspect of the island’s food culture, and Food Culture Place incorporates this into their workshops. Participants learn about traditional fishing practices, sustainable methods, and the important role fishing has played in the island’s history. Whether it’s casting a line into the Atlantic or learning how to prepare freshly caught fish, these experiences offer a deeper understanding of the connection between the sea and the island’s culinary traditions.
Workshops for All Skill Levels
Food Culture Place welcomes participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced foragers and cooks. Each workshop is tailored to meet participants where they are, ensuring that everyone can take away something valuable from the experience. Whether you’re new to foraging or a seasoned home cook looking to deepen your knowledge of local ingredients, Food Culture Place offers workshops that are both accessible and enriching.
How Food Culture Place Impacts the Community
Beyond educating visitors, Food Culture Place also has a profound impact on the local community. Lori’s workshops and events bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. By promoting sustainable food practices and preserving culinary traditions, Food Culture Place helps to strengthen Newfoundland’s cultural identity. The workshops also provide opportunities for locals to reconnect with their heritage and for visitors to take home a deeper appreciation for Newfoundland’s unique way of life.
Connecting Food with Nature and Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of everything Lori McCarthy and her team do at Food Culture Place. By teaching participants how to forage responsibly, fish sustainably, and use every part of the ingredients they gather, the workshops promote a deep respect for Newfoundland’s natural resources. Lori emphasizes that sustainable food sourcing isn’t just good for the environment—it also results in healthier, tastier meals. At Food Culture Place, participants learn how to connect with nature in a way that’s both nourishing and sustainable.
Plan Your Visit to Food Culture Place
If you’re ready to experience the rich culinary traditions of Newfoundland, Food Culture Place offers a variety of workshops and tours that cater to every interest. Whether you’re drawn to foraging, fishing, or simply enjoying a meal that connects you to the land and sea, there’s something for everyone. To plan your visit, check out the upcoming events on the Food Culture Place website, or contact Lori and her team directly to book your spot in a workshop. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in Newfoundland’s food culture and take home unforgettable memories—and maybe a new recipe or two!
