“Cocina de La Florida” at the Tampa Bay History Center is a Historical Feast

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When Spanish conquistadors sailed across the Atlantic in the 16th century they explored Florida, tirelessly searching for gold and treasure. They constructed forts, built settlements, fought with Florida natives and mapped the New World.

All that exploring must have made them pretty hungry. On Saturday, August 21, at 11:00 a.m., the Tampa Bay History Center presents La Cocina de La Florida: Foods of 16th Century Conquistadors, a cooking demonstration featuring centuries-old Spanish recipes and cuisine.

Cocina de La Florida will be led by historical interpreter Sheila Benjamin, who has demonstrated 16th century Spanish cooking for nearly two decades. Over the years, she has collected an amazing variety of reproduction kitchen utensils, copper pots, and dishes in which she serves up traditional culinary delights like Arroz Con Pollo, Paella, and Fabada Asturiana, a rich stew made with large white beans, pork shoulder, morcilla, chorizo, and saffron prepared in a clay cazuela (casserole).

Benjamin, together with artist and historian, Elizabeth Neily, will share recipes and prepare traditional dishes with participants.

Cocina de La Florida is presented in conjunction with Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida, featuring the art of Hermann Trappman, currently on exhibit at the History Center through September 26th. Obscured by Time details the natural history of Florida through Hermann Trappman’s compelling paintings, artifact replicas, fossils, and examples of the resources utilized by ancient Native Americans.

Cost for Cocina de La Florida is $20 for members of the History Center and $25 for non-members. Seating is limited, pre-registration is required. For more information about this program or to register, contact the Tampa Bay History Center at (813) 228-0097 ext. 0 or visit our website.