BEEF

BEEF tells the history and gentrification of many ethnic foods across the world. From Agua Frescas being labeled and repackaged as "spa waters" to changing recipes to adapt to different palates, the gentrification and whitewashing of ethnic foods have been occurring for the last 10 or so years, especially on social media.

This capstone project hopes to educate people on the importance of preserving and learning about the cultural significance behind certain dishes and the risks of erasing the rich history and traditions of minority communities, which should always be valued and preserved.

Limited Edition: History Without Seasonings

Jelly Donut | Onigiri

The term "Jelly Donut" is a real misnomer that recasts Onigiri through a Western frame, enacting a form of cultural erasure by stripping it of its roots in Japanese daily life and food culture. What remains is a distorted version, detached from the people and traditions that shaped it. But what is an onigiri? Onigiri is a Japanese rice ball wrapped in seaweed, with various fillings such as Umeboshi and Konbu. This beloved snack can be found almost everywhere, from restaurants and konbini's to media such as anime, books, manga, and more.

Broth Fondue | Huǒguō (Hot Pot)

"Broth Fondue" is a real whitewashed renaming that recasts Huǒguō (hot pot) through a European reference point, enacting a form of cultural erasure by stripping it of its roots in Chinese communal dining and regional food culture. What remains is a familiarized version, detached from the people and traditions that shaped it. Huǒ guō (火锅) is a shared main dish served in a large pot simmering with broth. During the meal, diners dip and cook various ingredients into the broth, such as meat, dumplings, seafood, vegetables, and noodles. Different types of hot pot vary across China, with Chongqing having numbing mala and Beijing having clear, water-based soups.

Spa Water | Agua Frescas

"Spa Water" is a real whitewash, recasting Agua Fresca as a generic wellness product and erasing its roots in Latin American street culture and everyday life. What remains is a sanitized version, detached from the people and traditions that shaped it: Agua Frescas, a beloved drink found at almost every vendor and restaurant in Mexico and Latin America. Although the word Agua Frescas translates to cool/fresh waters in Spanish, this drink is far from that. This drink is mainly made from fruits and seeds, blended with sugar and water. Some of the most popular types of agua fresas include Jamaica, Horchata, and Maracuya.