Ivy Odom, a renowned cookbook author, recently opened up about her family’s cherished Thanksgiving tradition – a ‘polarizing’ dish that takes center stage at their festive table. During an exclusive interview at the second annual Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, S.C., Ivy Odom shared insights about the iconic dish that must make an appearance every Thanksgiving.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Ivy-Odom-111425-1-18899e70919f4eb48a08f25815b078f2.jpg)
Speaking to PEOPLE after her cooking demonstration titled ‘Suppers & Celebrations: Recipes for Every Occasion’ with Regina King, Ivy Odom revealed the significance of their pineapple casserole. Describing it as a blend of pineapple, cheese, butter, and Ritz crackers, she emphasized that despite divided opinions, the dish holds a special place in their holiday spread. Odom highlighted that in her family, the pineapple casserole is considered a vegetable side dish, underscoring its iconic status and delicious appeal.
As she anticipates the upcoming holiday season, Ivy Odom shared that she plans to spend it with her parents in her hometown of Georgia. Adding to the festive spirit, Odom, who is also expecting her first child with husband Luis Aponte, reflected on the joy of celebrating with loved ones and relishing family traditions. The sense of togetherness and nostalgia associated with Thanksgiving seemed palpable in Odom’s sentiments as she discussed her plans for the season.
At the cooking demo alongside Regina King, Ivy Odom showcased her culinary expertise by preparing delectable dishes like chicken sliders with homemade pimento cheese and a vibrant collard salad. The event also provided a platform for King to share the inspiration behind her new orange wine, MianU, crafted in memory of her late son, Ian Alexander Jr., who tragically passed away in 2022. King’s heartfelt tribute through a unique beverage resonated with attendees and added a poignant touch to the culinary celebration.
Reflecting on the creative process behind MianU, Regina King expressed her desire to commemorate her son’s love for wine, cooking, and art in a meaningful way. By infusing these passions into a single product, she aimed to create a tangible connection to her son’s memory, fostering new moments of reflection and sharing with others. The fusion of personal storytelling with culinary artistry further enriched the Food & Wine Classic experience, offering attendees a deeper appreciation for the power of food and drink to evoke emotions and memories.
As the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston continued its festivities, guests were treated to a diverse array of culinary delights and engaging conversations with industry experts. From innovative twists on holiday desserts to heartwarming stories behind new food products, the event captured the essence of community, creativity, and shared experiences. Attendees had the opportunity to indulge in unique gastronomic offerings while immersing themselves in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated the art of cooking and storytelling.
As the holiday season approaches, events like the Food & Wine Classic serve as a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that come with sharing meals and creating lasting memories with loved ones. Through the lens of culinary artistry and personal narratives, attendees were able to savour not just delicious dishes but also the stories and emotions woven into each recipe. The convergence of diverse talents, flavours, and stories at the Food & Wine Classic underscored the power of food to unite people and evoke a sense of shared belonging, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving.
In a world where food often serves as a bridge between generations and cultures, the traditions and recipes we cherish become a testament to our shared experiences and personal histories. Ivy Odom’s heartfelt reverence for her family’s pineapple casserole and Regina King’s poignant tribute through MianU reflect the enduring power of food to connect us to our past, present, and future. As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let us savour not just the flavours but the stories that make each dish a cherished part of our holiday traditions.