Meet Juyalí

Welcome! Bienvenidos!

My goal for this website is for you to...

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Where this blog began:

My grandmother's Venezuelan kitchen

“While this website was launched in 2020, it actually started in my grandmother’s Venezuelan kitchen back in the early 80s.  I just didn’t know it then.”

Ever since childhood, I was surrounded by my grandmother's wisdom, stories, patience, and love for cooking. My grandmother La Abuela Paulina (I called her mami) was one of the strongest and most loving women I’ve known (she was a total warrior!) - the inspiration for my love of cooking.  

She cooked fantastic food, had the best sazón, and I was so darn lucky to be her apprentice! Sadly, she is gone from earth but still with me in my kitchen (in spirit!).

Growing up, I was surrounded by the vibrant colors and bold flavors of our Venezuelan cuisine. From arepas to empanadas to Pabellón criollo, my family's kitchen was always filled with the rich scents and mouthwatering tastes characteristic of Latin American food.          

But, when I moved from sunny Venezuela to a small town in Northern U.S.A., I found myself missing those flavors more than ever. Winters can last up to four months here (yes, you read that right, four months!). Sure, there were some Latin American restaurants and a handful of Latin markets in the Twin Cities (Minnesota), a short car ride from my house. Still, the taste of home just wasn't the same.

So, I turned to cooking as a way to reconnect with my roots. I read many cookbooks and online recipes and made expensive phone calls to my grandma in Venezuela! Always experimenting with the techniques learned in her kitchen and the limited ingredients in my area until I finally found the perfect balance of flavors that reminded me of home.

On this website, you will also find some stories about the traditions that make Latin American cuisine special. In some cases, I share the history behind a dish and the personal memories they hold for me and my big Venezuelan family (like in these Venezuelan Pan de Jamon or Carne Mechada recipes).

For me, food is a way to connect with people, my past, my culture, and the family that I no longer get to see or hug. Through this blog, I hope to help others discover the same joy and connection that I've found through cooking and by sharing the flavors of Latin America with loved ones.

Lastly, I started this website for YOU…

For the busy moms who might feel that same longing and nostalgia for the flavors of their own cultural heritage.

For my kids, when they need recipes and inspiration from their mother's culture.

And for those who are curious about Latin American culture and love trying new foods. 

What you can expect from my kitchen and A Latin Flair?

• Recipes, tips, and techniques to help you cook Latin America-inspired recipes, a region with a flavorful, diverse, and soul-feeding cuisine.
• Some recipes may have more extensive writing aimed to explain techniques and tips in more depth. If you are in a hurry, you can always click "Jump to Recipe" and get right to the recipe card with the ingredients and instructions for the dish.  
• My cooking is inspired by traditional Venezuelan dishes because that is what I grew up cooking. but many of my recipes go across the border and include anything from Latin America and the Caribbean.  
• A healthy twist to some traditional techniques without compromising on flavor. Healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. With some creativity and smart techniques and ingredient substitutions, it's possible to enjoy the Latin foods we love without sacrificing taste or nutrition. 😉 Like these Venezuelan Baked Tostones.
• Techniques for saving time - As a busy working mom, I understand the challenges of finding time to cook healthy meals. You may see some modern twists and tools to ease the time in the kitchen. Crockpot Carnitas anyone?
• Most ingredients can be found at your local supermarket. Some may include more exotic ingredients, and I will insert tips or links for places to buy online.
• Traveling is part of our family’s DNA and I will share some travel stories, tips, and many pictures, of course!

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Through this space that I called A Latin Flair, I will showcase the diverse flavors of Latin American cuisine while highlighting the nutritional benefits of traditional ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, I invite you to join me on this journey.

Together, we can create healthy, delicious Latin-inspired dishes that nourish our bodies and souls. 

I can't wait to keep sharing and building a community with and for you. Leave your comments, ask me questions, and if you feel inclined share my recipes with others. This is for YOU!

As the host, author, recipe developer, tester, food stylist, photographer, and writer behind A Latin Flair, THANK YOU for visiting, and I hope to see you around here often!  

¡Buen provecho! and ¡Gracias!

Juyalí

Let's get cooking! Vamos a cocinar!