Conversations About Food

Carlinha Carioca (CT)

As we all adjusted to shelter in place orders across the nation, we all also adjusted to the way we acquire our food. Some of us that were able supported our local restaurants that were offering safe pickup and delivery and some of us were cooking our own meals. Cooking our own food came natural for some and is challenging for others. I wrote this article with the new and old home cook in mind and also in an effort to spotlight and support our local businesses.

Living by the gulf gives us a great opportunity to find some very fresh seafood and one of my latest obsessions is “Willingham Seafood Company” which is located in Valparaiso. When you arrive to Willingham Seafood Company, you will likely see one or two of their boats which are usually docked right next to their store. The way this local business operates is that they own their own shrimp boats the Myra Gail, Michele Dawn and Wilma Ree and they sell their catch in their store located just a few yards from their boat dock. In their store one can buy reasonable priced seafood straight off their boats and also other seasonal specialties they carry. In the past few months Willingham Seafood has also been having Crawfish /Shrimp Boils to go.

One innovative way Willingham Seafood uses to reach out to their costumers is through Social media, so if you are on Facebook, just search their company name “like and follow” them. Once you start following Willingham Seafood, you will often see their posts about their boat arrival, catches of the day and price specials. Don’t worry if you don’t have Facebook you can always call the store, they are very friendly and ready to answer all your questions.

To all the new and old home cooks out there whether you are cooking for your family or just for yourself, just keep in mind we all mess up at times, but practice makes perfect and all you can do is try your best and having fresh and local foods will always enhance your meals.

Stay safe & healthy. Until next time…