On this episode of Taste Buds with Deb, host Debra Eckerling speaks with Sonya Sanford, author of  "Braids: Recipes From My Pacific Northwest Jewish Kitchen." The child of Ukrainian immigrants, Sanford grew up in Seattle and is the first born American in her family. She is a chef, writer, and podcast host, and has been studying cuisine in the diaspora for more than 15 years.

“Jewish food differs in any region,” Sanford says. “That's because of what's available to people and what the cultural trends are.” 

Sanford talks about her culinary journey, attributes of Pacific Northwest Jewish cuisine, and why her book is called, “Braids.” It is - and isn’t - what you think. She also shares her recipe for marionberry rugelach, as well as cooking tips and her cooking philosophy.

“If there’s a part of you that wants to cook, that’s the most important ingredient,” Sanford says.

Learn more at Sonyasanford.com, follow her on Instagram @sonyamichellesanford, and subscribe to Sonya Sanford on substack.

Get the recipe and read the highlights at JewishJournal.com/podcasts. For more from Taste Buds, follow @TheDEBMethod on social media.