The culinary anthropologist explains how she is preserving the stories of our oldest foodstuffs on the latest episode of our Crazy Smart Asia podcast
“You are what you eat” is a proverb about the effect that dietary choices have on physical well-being. But Nithiya Laila is extending this gastronomic axiom to show how food can also benefit our minds and souls.
Laila grew up in Singapore, raised by parents and grandparents who recognised the value of understanding where one’s food comes from. Today, she believes that the produce we grow, harvest, prepare and eat contains stories about our heritage. She has become a champion for Asia’s indigenous plantlife and is working to return it to the region’s gardens and dinner tables alike.
Read more: Home Grown: For Nithiya Laila, home farming is a way to honour her roots
As part of this botanical crusade, Laila has spread awareness on TV screens as the presenter of the series, Edible Wild, and has taken action by co-founding the SG Seed Exchange, a community platform dedicated to the exchange of native seeds. Laila is also behind the pop-up dining club, Brunch Bandits, which organises communal events to celebrate culture and dining in equal measure.
In the latest episode of our Crazy Smart Asia podcast, the Hong Kong-based culinary anthropologist discusses how her upbringing shaped her relationship with food. Below are a few excerpts from the episode. To listen to the full episode, click the audio player below or subscribe via Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
On defying expectations
“I never really thought cooking was my thing, you know? My grandma quite actively forbade me from going into the kitchen. She used to say she didn’t want me to get used to being in the kitchen.”
On setting goals
“It’s not about following your passions. It’s about whether you have something to offer that other people need. If you don’t, then find something else.”
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