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Cracking the Past: Black Walnut Pesto and the Man Who Saved Heirloom Apples
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Deep in the Southern woods, where the land itself keeps its secrets, the Black walnut tree stands like an old sentinel, its roots tangled in the past, its fruit bitter and rich as memory. Folks used to crack those stubborn shells by the fire, their hands stained dark as if marked by the knowledge of something ancient, something almost forgotten. But what if that old-time staple, once a necessity, now an afterthought, could find its way back to the table—not just as a relic, but as a key to a long and healthy life?
Tonight, we gather around the fire once more, stirring up a new kind of alchemy: Black Walnut Pesto, a Southern Blue Zone twist on an heirloom ingredient. And as we speak of roots, we must also bid farewell to a mighty one. James Lawson, arborist, keeper of forgotten apples, and quiet guardian of history, has left this world at the age of 99. His hands grafted life onto dying branches, his work a testament to the stubborn endurance of the past. Now, he himself becomes a memory—one we will not let wither.
Settle in, let the night press close, and listen. The past still has something to say.
You can find Edward Phillips on YouTube. Go to @Edwardphillipsroots for more of his music. Learn about the history behind the Delta and Piedmont Blues. Edward brings the music of Sun House, Blind Willie Johnson, and Robert Johnson to life with his stories.
Cornbread and Miguel lay hands on the land.
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Disclaimer:
Cornbread & Buttermilk is all about sharing stories, traditions, and the wisdom of the Southern kitchen, but we are not medical professionals. The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before adding new foods, supplements, or home remedies to your routine—especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Listen to your body, trust your doctor, and enjoy the journey of good food and well-being!
Thank you for listening; please share our Podcast with friends and family members who would find our stories interesting. It would certainly help us, it would be a blessing, it certainly would.
Let us know if you enjoyed the program. What’s on your mind? We would love to hear from you. Contact us at: [email protected]
Title: Ragged and Dirty
Performed by: William Brown
Recorded by: Alan Lomax
From the album: Negro Blues and Hollers
Courtesy of: American Folklife Center, Library of Congress
You can reach History By Mail for more information at, www.historybymail.com
Listen to @EdwardPhillipsRoots on YouTube. You can watch, “The Electronic Juke Joint” Live stream, with Edward on Wednesday Nights at 8:30 p.m. E.T. where Edward takes song request from his liste...
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By Western C. CainSend us a text
Deep in the Southern woods, where the land itself keeps its secrets, the Black walnut tree stands like an old sentinel, its roots tangled in the past, its fruit bitter and rich as memory. Folks used to crack those stubborn shells by the fire, their hands stained dark as if marked by the knowledge of something ancient, something almost forgotten. But what if that old-time staple, once a necessity, now an afterthought, could find its way back to the table—not just as a relic, but as a key to a long and healthy life?
Tonight, we gather around the fire once more, stirring up a new kind of alchemy: Black Walnut Pesto, a Southern Blue Zone twist on an heirloom ingredient. And as we speak of roots, we must also bid farewell to a mighty one. James Lawson, arborist, keeper of forgotten apples, and quiet guardian of history, has left this world at the age of 99. His hands grafted life onto dying branches, his work a testament to the stubborn endurance of the past. Now, he himself becomes a memory—one we will not let wither.
Settle in, let the night press close, and listen. The past still has something to say.
You can find Edward Phillips on YouTube. Go to @Edwardphillipsroots for more of his music. Learn about the history behind the Delta and Piedmont Blues. Edward brings the music of Sun House, Blind Willie Johnson, and Robert Johnson to life with his stories.
Cornbread and Miguel lay hands on the land.
Ad for Edward Phillips Electronic Juke Joint
Disclaimer:
Cornbread & Buttermilk is all about sharing stories, traditions, and the wisdom of the Southern kitchen, but we are not medical professionals. The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before adding new foods, supplements, or home remedies to your routine—especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Listen to your body, trust your doctor, and enjoy the journey of good food and well-being!
Thank you for listening; please share our Podcast with friends and family members who would find our stories interesting. It would certainly help us, it would be a blessing, it certainly would.
Let us know if you enjoyed the program. What’s on your mind? We would love to hear from you. Contact us at: [email protected]
Title: Ragged and Dirty
Performed by: William Brown
Recorded by: Alan Lomax
From the album: Negro Blues and Hollers
Courtesy of: American Folklife Center, Library of Congress
You can reach History By Mail for more information at, www.historybymail.com
Listen to @EdwardPhillipsRoots on YouTube. You can watch, “The Electronic Juke Joint” Live stream, with Edward on Wednesday Nights at 8:30 p.m. E.T. where Edward takes song request from his liste...