Cooking with Community and Culture: A Celebration of Toni Tipton-Martin's Jubilee

As a portrait and event photographer based in Ashland, Virginia, creativity is the lifeblood of my work. But when I’m not behind the lens capturing moments and stories, you’ll often find me diving into my other passions—traveling, music, dancing, writing, yoga and lately, something that’s quickly becoming a new love: cooking. Recently, a friend invited me to a “cookbook party”—a gathering where each guest prepares a dish from the same cookbook, and we all come together to share a meal. It’s like a potluck with a literary twist. The chosen book for this gathering was Jubilee: Recipes from Two Centuries of African American Cooking by Toni Tipton-Martin, and let me tell you, this was no ordinary cookbook.

 

A Cookbook With Deep Roots

Jubilee isn’t just a collection of recipes—it’s a journey through history. Through each dish, Toni Tipton-Martin paints a vivid picture of African American culinary tradition, deeply rooted in resilience, creativity and cultural influence. From refined Creole classics to comforting Southern staples, every page reflects the contributions Black cooks have made to American cuisine—often without recognition.

The recipes are as rich in flavor as they are in narrative. You’ll find everything from Baked Ham with Red Eye Gravy to Spoonbread, Shrimp Creole and a soul-satisfying Sweet Potato Pie. But what makes Jubilee truly special is the context Toni provides: stories of the cooks, chefs and culinary pioneers behind the food. It’s a testament to the artistry, intellect and expertise of African American cooks who shaped the nation’s palate.

 

Who Is Toni Tipton-Martin?

Toni Tipton-Martin is an award-winning food journalist, historian, and author. She has long been a champion for the often-overlooked legacies of African American cooks, bringing to light the rich tapestry of Black culinary excellence through meticulous research and passionate storytelling. Before Jubilee, she authored The Jemima Code, a groundbreaking book that examined over 150 African American cookbooks and challenged the stereotypes surrounding Black cooks. For her work, Toni has earned a James Beard Award, one of the highest honors in the culinary world, not once but twice—solidifying her place as one of the most influential voices in food writing today. She was also the first African American editor of a major daily newspaper’s food section (the Cleveland Plain Dealer) and has served as editor-in-chief of Cook's Country magazine. Her work is a beautiful blend of food, history, and justice—and it’s changing the way we talk about American cuisine.

 

Cooking Up Connection

The cookbook party was more than a culinary adventure—it was a celebration of community, culture, and connection. Sharing these dishes, prepared with intention and appreciation, brought a new level of understanding and joy to the table. I left that evening not only full in body, but full in spirit, too. As someone who works with people from all walks of life through my photography business, I deeply value the stories that bring us together. Whether it’s through a portrait session or a pot of gumbo, these stories remind us of who we are and how far we’ve come. If you’re looking for a cookbook that does more than just feed your stomach, but also feeds your soul and challenges your perspective—Jubilee is it. I can’t recommend it enough.

 

Toni Tipton-Martin's work reminds us that food is a powerful vehicle for connection, memory and identity. Jubilee isn’t just a cookbook I’ll use again (and again); it’s a book I’ll cherish, because it reflects the kind of storytelling I strive to capture in my own work—authentic, soulful, and rooted in love.