Tanorria Askew: From Banking to Culinary Stardom

Tanorria Askew's journey from the corporate world to the culinary spotlight is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. This talented chef, author, and podcast host has carved out a unique niche for herself, blending her love for food with a mission to nourish both bodies and souls.

Unlocking the Flavors of Home

Embracing Her Culinary Roots

Tanorria Askew's culinary journey began in her grandmother's kitchen, where she spent summers in Chattanooga, Tennessee, learning the art of cooking from scratch. This early exposure to the joys of homemade meals laid the foundation for her lifelong love affair with food. As an adult, Askew found herself in the banking industry, but her heart yearned for a more fulfilling path.

Reigniting the Passion

Askew's passion for cooking never waned, and she found herself constantly cooking for friends and loved ones. It was this natural inclination to share her culinary creations that led her to a pivotal moment – a friend's suggestion to audition for the reality television show, MasterChef. Askew seized the opportunity, and her impressive performance on the show, where she finished fourth, marked a turning point in her life.

Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Inspired by her MasterChef experience, Askew made the bold decision to leave her 15-year career in banking and fully immerse herself in the world of food. This leap of faith paved the way for a remarkable transformation, as she began sharing her culinary expertise through various platforms, including a cooking segment on WTHR and the launch of her own podcast, "Black Girls Eating."

Sharing the Flavors of Home

Askew's commitment to celebrating the flavors of home culminated in the publication of her 2021 cookbook, "Staples+5: 100 Simple Recipes to Make the Most of Your Pantry." This labor of love was a tribute to the lessons she learned from her grandmother and mother, who instilled in her the importance of cooking from scratch. The book's focus on simple, accessible ingredients resonated with readers, particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many sought to stretch their budgets and rediscover the joys of home cooking.

Nourishing the Body and Soul

Askew's mission extends beyond just sharing delicious recipes; she is dedicated to nourishing both the body and the soul. Through her podcast, "Black Girls Eating," she engages with a diverse array of food contributors and creators, exploring the deeper meaning and impact of food in our lives. From discussions with teachers about the importance of nutritious meals for student performance to conversations with politicians on the significance of local agriculture, Askew's podcast aims to foster a deeper understanding of the role food plays in our communities.

Bringing the Restaurant Experience Home

Askew's entrepreneurial spirit has also led her to offer unique culinary services to her community. Through her company, Tanorria's Table, she provides private chef services, bringing a restaurant-quality experience directly to clients' homes. Whether it's preparing weekly meals or crafting a multi-course dinner for special occasions, Askew's dedication to personalized service and exceptional flavors has earned her a loyal following.

Exploring New Horizons

As Askew continues to expand her culinary empire, the question of opening her own restaurant has been raised. While she remains open to the possibility, her true passion lies in the personal connections she's able to forge through her current offerings. Askew believes that the tight-knit community of Whitestown, where she recently relocated, may present an opportunity to explore a more localized approach to her culinary ventures.Tanorria Askew's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passions and the transformative impact that can have on both personal and professional lives. From her humble beginnings in her grandmother's kitchen to her current status as a culinary trailblazer, Askew's story inspires us to embrace our culinary roots, nurture our creativity, and share the joy of food with the world.