Discover the Flavors of St. Augustine: Learn to Make Authentic Minorcan Clam Chowder

Welcome to the next stop on Chef Valerie’s Culinary Road Trip Series! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of St. Augustine, Florida, and maybe learn a bit about history and flavors of Minorcan culture . 

The Legacy of the Minorcan Culture:

The rich cultural heritage that flavors this iconic dish. the Minorcans, are descendants of settlers from the Spanish island of Minorca, have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of St. Augustine. Their influence can be tasted in the unique blend of flavors and ingredients that define traditional Minorcan cuisine.  They were indentured by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician and entrepreneur who wanted to establish a colony in Florida.

They arrived in Florida in 1768 as indentured servants for a colony called New Smyrna. After enduring harsh conditions, disease, and starvation, the 600 remaining Minorcans fled to St. Augustine in 1777, where they were granted sanctuary by the Spanish governor. They became an integral part of the city’s culture and history, contributing largely to its agriculture, cuisine, architecture, and language. Today, many of their descendants still live in St. Augustine and celebrate their unique heritage.

Now, for the class:

Chef Valerie will guide participants through the step-by-step process of creating authentic Minorcan Clam Chowder from scratch (if they can be sourced). From cleaning and shucking fresh clams to infusing the chowder with herbs and spices, you’ll learn the secrets to crafting a dish that’s bursting with flavor and history. (We may not have access to fresh, live clams or datil peppers and will be using substitutions that will still result in this delicious clam chowder) 

As we simmer our meal to perfection, Chef Valerie will talk with participants about St. Augustine’s rich culinary heritage and the significance of Minorcan cuisine in shaping the region’s identity. Discover how the flavors of the past continue to influence the dishes we enjoy today, and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry that makes St. Augustine so unique.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this class is designed to inspire and empower you to create a delicious regional dishes with confidence…and learn a thing or two about the oldest city in the United States.

Click the BOOK NOW button to register. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and get ready to savor the flavors of St. Augustine from the comfort of your own kitchen.

This is a somewhat spicy chowder.  If you prefer to omit the hot peppers, please inform Chef Valerie prior to the day of class.