Mariama Jalloh
she/her/hersYears of Participation
2024
Influenced by her Guinean and Sierra Leonean upbringing, Mariama has honed her culinary skills in multicultural cuisine. Fueled by boundless curiosity and drawing inspiration from her Fouta Djallon heritage, she seamlessly fuses global influences, explores unexpected pairings, and presents her creations with an artistic flair that defines her signature style. In her early years in NYC, Chef Mariama trained in modern classical Fine dining restaurants in the meatpacking district.
Mariama's culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in her love for open-fire cooking and cultural preservation. Her concept embodies the essence of her upbringing, emphasizing the consumption of locally grown foods prepared minimally over burning wood or charcoal, resulting in a distinctive taste in every meal.
Additionally, her culinary approach promotes traditional indigenous techniques such as fermentation, sun drying, curing, and more.
As the visionary behind Fulbe Nomadic Cuisine and Fulbe Fine Dining, Chef Mariama particularly crafts menus that transcend mere meals – they are immersive journeys. Each dish, from conceptualization to execution, narrates a unique story, inviting diners to become part of an ever-evolving culinary narrative.
Chef Mariama has undertaken a compelling project, researching the culinary path and livelihood of former enslaved Africans. This research unveiled a traditional impact attributed to Bilal, a former enslaved Muslim Fulani from Guinea, who introduced Sadaqa to the South. Sadaqa, linked to a Fulani rite of passage, involves the preparation of a rice cake known as Chobbal. In the historical context of rice cakes, Sadaqa refers to boiled rice pounded in the Gullah Dialect.
Embark on a culinary adventure with Chef Mariama, where tradition impeccably meets innovation, and each plate serves as a canvas for edible art. Join the movement and immerse yourself in the future of flavor.