With climate change and sustainability at the forefront of global issues, Chef Jenesis’ farm-to-table cooking approach embodies Earth Day’s ethos. Her ingredients are carefully selected to create delicious vegan dishes and reduce carbon emissions by minimizing transportation.
Chef Jenesis’ vegan cuisine is healthy and inclusive, catering to all appetites with dishes that satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Her passion for cooking with heart and soul is evident in how she infuses her dishes with bold flavors that captivate her audience.
As a MasterChef alum, Chef Jenesis has leveraged her experience to create a unique menu showcasing plant-based cuisine’s versatility. Her culinary heritage passed down through generations, inspires and shapes how we approach food today.
We had the amazing opportunity of sitting down with Chef Jenesis to discuss her vegan passion and her summertime favorites.
Tell us about your love for vegan eats. When did it start?
My love for vegan eats started when I became vegan at 30 due to health reasons. I was diagnosed with colitis and inter-acid reflux and became deathly ill. It was a turning point, and going vegan ultimately saved my life. I started exploring the world of plant-based cooking and discovered the incredible flavors and health benefits that come with it. One of my favorite dishes to cook is my famous Orange Cauliflower Chik’n. It consists of tender breaded cauliflower coated with a curry mango and pineapple Caribbean jerk sauce, served with fragrant jasmine rice. The sauce is made from scratch using freshly pressed oranges and mangoes. This dish showcases the bold and delicious flavors that can be achieved with plant-based ingredients.
When did you realize you were passionate about creating healthy, bold, and delicious dishes?
My passion for creating healthy, bold, and delicious dishes started at a young age. I have always loved to cook since I was eight years old. However, my passion flourished when I began experimenting with ingredients, mainly fruits and vegetables I had never tasted. I started experimenting with unique and exotic produce, such as citrus buddha hand and banana blossom. These experiences sparked my creativity and ignited a deep passion for creating dishes that are both flavorful and good for the body. It was a realization that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or restrictive; it can be exciting, vibrant, and full of bold flavors. Since then, my love for creating healthy and delicious vegan dishes has only grown, and I am continuously inspired to push the boundaries of plant-based cuisine.
What are the benefits of having a farm-to-table approach to eating?
Embracing a farm-to-table approach to eating brings numerous benefits. It allows us to prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients essential for our bodies’ well-being. Eating right nourishes us physically and has positive effects on our mental and spiritual well-being.
Fruits and vegetables kissed by the sun provide us with abundant vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They offer vibrant flavors and nourishment that fuel our bodies with love. By supporting local farmers and producers, we contribute to the sustainability of our local food systems and reduce our carbon footprint.
Furthermore, the farm-to-table approach fosters a deeper connection with our food. We gain a better understanding of where our food comes from, the care taken in its production, and the impact it has on our health and the environment. This awareness allows us to make informed choices that align with our values and supports sustainable farming practices.
Overall, the farm-to-table approach offers a holistic approach to eating. It nourishes our bodies with fresh, wholesome ingredients while promoting sustainability and a sense of connection with the food we consume. By embracing this approach, we can truly experience the benefits of eating food that is both good for us and for the planet.
What can guests expect when sitting at a Chef Jenesis dinner table?
When you sit at my dinner table, you can expect an artful experience that nourishes both the body and the soul. Every bite is crafted with love and care, utilizing fresh and vibrant ingredients. I take pride in incorporating flavors from my Jamaican and Asian heritage, creating unique and innovative dishes.
On the menu, you might find enticing options like vegan egg fu young, avocado mango sushi rolls, peas and rice, and orange cauliflower chicken—a delightful twist on sweet and sour chicken featuring a sauce made with fresh oranges and mangos infused with Jamaican flavors. I often utilize ingredients from my own home garden, such as black garlic and fresh herbs, to add an extra layer of freshness and depth to the dishes.
At my dinner table, you will experience the harmonious fusion of flavors, the artistry in presentation, and the joy that comes with savoring each bite. It is my goal to create an unforgettable dining experience that delights and satisfies, leaving guests with a sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Summertime is in full effect. Can you share some must-have items from your menu?
During summertime, my menu features refreshing and seasonal delights. A must-have is the avocado ice cream—a creamy and luscious treat that combines the rich flavors of avocado with a hint of sweetness. Another summer favorite is the coconut peach ice cream, which captures the tropical essence of the season. For those seeking a savory option, the mesquite wood chip-grilled vegan burger steals the show. It offers a smoky and robust flavor that perfectly complements the juicy plant-based patty. Served with a tangy and vibrant blood orange barbecue sauce, this burger is a summertime delight.
What is next for you and the Chef Jenesis brand?
The next phase for me and the Chef Jenesis brand involves launching my own culinary line. I am excited to bring my expertise, creativity, and love for plant-based cooking to a wider audience through a range of products. From unique spice blends and sauces to ready-to-eat meals, my culinary line will offer convenient and delicious options for individuals looking to incorporate more plant-based goodness into their lives. I am thrilled to embark on this new venture and share my passion for vegan cuisine in a whole new way.
What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?
A Pretty Woman Who Hustles, to me, is a phenomenal woman who fearlessly creates her own destiny. She embodies strength, resilience, and determination. She pursues her dreams with unwavering passion, working hard to manifest her goals. She uplifts and supports
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Photo Credit: Xavier Mclendon
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