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Rinalda Rocquin, M.S.

LSU AgCenter’s  Flavors of Health is a nutrition and health program with a community focus that provides classes and workshops on a variety of topics that empower individuals and families to make healthy food and fitness choices and to live healthful lives.  One of our current programs is called “A Taste of Herbs and Spices.” Each month we highlight a different herb or spice to encourage people to try adding more spices and herbs to their cooking and to cut down on the use of salt that may lead to hypertension.  We are partnering with St. John the Baptist and St. Charles Parish libraries to provide a monthly handout which includes a free sample of the spice and a recipe to try out. You can find the handouts at each library, but supplies are limited.

The spice for October is curry.  Curry powder is an herb and spice blend inspired by traditional Indian cuisines. It was formulated in the late 1700s in Britain to capture the flavors of Indian dishes. Curry powders are usually a blend of turmeric, cumin, ginger, paprika and black pepper, but also might include fenugreek, coriander, cloves, cinnamon, or cayenne. Curry powder is known for its bright hue and savory-sweet flavor. Curry powders are most commonly blended into soups, stews, and sauces, or sprinkled onto vegetables or meat. Curry powder can also be used in fruit compotes, and deviled eggs. 

Flavors of Health utilizes the latest science and evidence-based practices to merge Louisiana’s unique food traditions with nutrition and health challenges that face our communities. We provide virtual and on-site classes, presentations, workshops, and educational materials on a variety of topics to encourage healthier food and fitness behaviors.  For more information or to schedule a meeting, please contact Rinalda Rocquin, Area Nutrition Agent for St. John the Baptist and St. Charles Parishes.  rrocquin@agcenter.lsu.edu or (985) 497-3261.