News Summary
Chef Ranequa Bean hosted a Cajun cooking class in Memphis, teaching participants how to prepare gumbo. The event attracted a diverse group eager to learn about Cajun cuisine. Set on a beautifully decorated patio, attendees engaged with each other while mastering the craft of gumbo, specifically focusing on achieving the ideal roux color. This class emphasized community connection and the appreciation of culinary cultures, showcasing local culinary talent and fostering social connections through food.
Memphis – On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Chef Ranequa Bean hosted a Cajun cooking class focused specifically on teaching attendees how to make gumbo. The event attracted approximately 30 participants, showcasing a diverse group of friends, couples, and singles eager to learn about this popular dish.
The cooking class took place on the patio of 325 Wagner St. in Downtown Memphis, where the atmosphere was enhanced by elegantly set tables adorned with black cloths, tall candles, and gold chargers. This thoughtful presentation created an inviting environment, allowing guests to not only focus on the cooking but also engage in enriching conversations and network by exchanging Instagram handles.
The event lasted three hours, giving participants ample time to both learn and enjoy the dishes they prepared. Chef Bean guided attendees through the intricate steps of making gumbo, emphasizing the crucial technique of achieving the perfect roux color, a key component that can make or break this beloved dish.
This class serves as a testament to the vibrant culinary culture present in Memphis and highlights the importance of community engagement. It allows local residents to connect through food while learning about the rich culinary traditions that define Cajun cooking.
Chef Ranequa Bean is dedicated to promoting culinary arts through hands-on experiences like this one. The popularity of such classes points to a growing interest in local cuisine and the continuing desire for culinary education among community members.
The event was covered by Erica Horton, a freelance writer, emphasizing the notion that culinary activities can foster community spirit. This alignment with community engagement reflected a broader trend in the Memphis area to celebrate and promote local talents and culinary skills.
Attending events like this Gonzales class not only provides individuals with the skills to recreate traditional dishes but also contributes to a thriving local food scene. Additionally, subscriptions to coverage of such events support a not-for-profit newsroom committed to delivering critical community news and issues while funding programs that promote culinary arts education in schools and organizations.
The success of the Cajun cooking class with Chef Ranequa Bean exemplifies how community-based initiatives can lead to a deeper appreciation for culinary arts while also building social connections among attendees. Cooking classes such as this one not only impart knowledge but also celebrate the cultural diversity that food represents.
The city of Memphis continues to foster such events as part of its commitment to not only promote local culinary talent but also to engage its residents in meaningful and enjoyable learning experiences.
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Additional Resources
- Dailymemphian: Chef Ranequa Bean’s Cooking Experience
- Action News 5: Café du Memphis and Community Initiatives
- Commercial Appeal: Ragin’ Cajun Restaurant Highlights
- StyleBlueprint: Where to Get Crawfish in Memphis
- Memphis Flyer: Cajun Food and More
- Wikipedia: Cajun Cuisine
