Hi There and Welcome!
I'm excited to share all things food from my perspective while bringing together Southern and Soul food with a modern twist. So, if we haven't met, I'm Cree, the Recipe Developer and Content Creator behind 'Cooking With Bliss'. This is my little corner of the internet where I can be creative, inspired, and, most importantly, be myself.
How It Started
Cooking has always been close to my heart, thanks to my grandmothers (Ma and Mama Dear) and Big Mama, my great-grandmother, who were all born in the South. They were naturally amazing cooks who made nearly everything from scratch and even though they never measured anything, their dishes always turned out perfect.
I'd ask my grandmothers how much of an ingredient to use in a certain dish, and they'd say something like, "Oh, baby, just a little bit of this or a bit more of that," then they would go on to describe the texture and flavor. I used to hope and pray that my dish would taste just as good as theirs.
For them, it wasn't just about the food, but rather the love they put into every dish. Anyone who stepped into my grandmother's home knew they were going to be fed some good ole' delicious Southern cooking. If you came hungry, you were guaranteed to leave full and happy. They were the best hostesses, always welcoming people with open arms and making them feel like family.
Big Mama owned a local Soul Food restaurant, and I have such vivid memories of watching her run her restaurant. I'd see her walk over to the tables, chatting with guests, making sure they had everything they needed, and creating an atmosphere that felt warm and welcoming. She made everyone feel like they were at home, and that's something I carry with me today.
Looking back on those times, I realize how much of their love for cooking and influence has shaped me. My passion for food is truly an extension of them, and I know they'd be so proud of what I've built here on Cooking With Bliss.
Fun Facts About Me
- Although I hold a Master's Degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, I find great joy in sharing recipes inspired by the Southern and Soul Food cooking I grew up with.
- I can't start cooking until my counters are spotless. I grew up with the "clean as you go" rule, and it stuck with me.
- Beyond recipes, I'm developing a spice blend collection that reflects both the flavors that shaped me and the new ways I love to cook now.
- I had the chance to chat about juggling a full-time job while running a food blog. It was such a fun conversation. You can check it out here!
Keep In Touch
Always feel free to shoot me an email: cree(at)cookingwithbliss.com. I'd love to hear from you!
