Chef Kerline Ordeus is offering an authentic culinary experience of Haiti in Los Angeles through her cooking classes which feature traditional dishes, such as bouyon, a nutrient-rich soup made from meat, vegetables, and dumplings. Ordeus emphasized the importance of using yellow yam, a key ingredient from her homeland, even if it costs upwards of $20 and is more challenging to find than sweet potatoes.
Bridging Cultures Through Cuisine
Ordeus recounted her childhood memories of harvesting yams and the value of using genuine ingredients that carry nutritional benefits. Her culinary business, Haitian Knockout Kitchen, was born from her desire to share Haitian culture and cuisine with others after moving to Los Angeles in 2020.
Her classes not only teach participants how to prepare bouyon but also foster a sense of community. As she led her first session on making the soup, she guided students to work together in the kitchen, sharing roles such as chopping vegetables and braising meat. Ordeus conveyed that bouyon is deeply connected to community, often served to individuals during illness or recovery, and requires teamwork to prepare traditionally.
Since her arrival in L.A., Ordeus has garnered a following on social media, prompting inquiries about cooking classes and catering. In response, she transitioned from her healthcare career to focus on her passion for cooking full-time. “We deserve a seat at the table,” she stated, highlighting the need for representation of Haitian cuisine in the city.
The dishes served during the cooking classes are paired with beverages from local Black- and women-owned businesses, including hibiscus mint tea from a fellow entrepreneur. Participants bond over the shared experience of meal preparation, contributing to a nurturing environment where friendships flourish.
At the conclusion of each class, attendees dine together, enjoying the fruit of their labor alongside freshly made plantains and other sides. Every guest leaves with a jar of homemade Haitian epis, a vibrant seasoning paste pivotal to Haitian cooking, encouraging them to recreate the experience at home.
Ordeus expressed a commitment to making this communal space welcoming for everyone, inviting them to explore Haitian dishes and culture. She plans to host her next cooking experience on October 3, with reservations available through her website and social media.
Why It Matters: Chef Ordeus’s initiative not only introduces Angelenos to Haitian cuisine but also cultivates community connections, promoting cultural understanding and celebrating diversity through food.
