In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating journey of Kim and Tyler Malek, founders of Salt & Straw ice cream, as they share their unique approach to ice cream making, the influence of their grandmother's cooking, and the cultural significance of food. We also explore the history of ice cream and its evolution in America, highlighting the contributions of black Americans to the craft.
In a delightful episode of "Your Last Meal," host Rachel Bell sits down with Kim and Tyler Malek, the innovative minds behind Salt & Straw ice cream. Known for their adventurous flavors and commitment to sustainability, the Maleks share their journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beloved ice cream brand with locations across the United States.
Salt & Straw was founded in Portland, Oregon, in 2011, but the journey began long before that. Kim Malek, an early employee at Starbucks, and her cousin Tyler, who had a dream of opening an ice cream shop since the mid-90s, teamed up to create something special. Despite having no prior experience in ice cream making, their passion and creativity led them to experiment with unique flavors.
Tyler's culinary journey began when he decided to attend culinary school. He had only made ice cream once before, but his enthusiasm and willingness to learn quickly turned him into a skilled ice cream maker. The duo's first foray into the ice cream world involved collaborating with local Portland makers, which allowed them to create flavors that reflected the city's vibrant food culture.
Salt & Straw is renowned for its unexpected flavors, such as pear and blue cheese, bone marrow with bourbon smoked cherries, and mint and sea urchin meringue. The Maleks emphasize that their goal is not to create weird flavors for shock value but to tell the stories of the ingredients and the people behind them.
Family plays a significant role in the Maleks' culinary philosophy. Kim and Tyler often reflect on their grandmother's cooking, which has inspired many of their ice cream flavors. For instance, their almond brittle with salted ganache was a recipe they created in homage to their grandmother, who never wrote down her recipes, making it a challenge for them to recreate her beloved dishes.
When asked about their last meals, both Kim and Tyler chose dishes that remind them of their grandmother. Kim would opt for Swedish pancakes paired with a spicy Bloody Mary, while Tyler would choose dumplings and sauerkraut, a dish that holds special memories of family gatherings.
The conversation also touches on the rich history of ice cream in America. Food historian Sarah Lohman explains that ice cream's origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations that used ice and snow to create frozen desserts. The craft of ice cream making evolved significantly in Europe and was brought to America by figures like Thomas Jefferson, who learned from his enslaved cook, James Hemings.
Lohman highlights the crucial role that black Americans played in shaping the ice cream industry. Many skilled pastry chefs, often formerly enslaved, became successful entrepreneurs, introducing innovations such as the ice cream scoop and creamy, egg-free ice cream. Their contributions laid the foundation for the ice cream we enjoy today.
The episode concludes with a celebration of the Maleks' journey and the cultural significance of food. Salt & Straw not only offers delicious ice cream but also serves as a platform for storytelling and community engagement. As they continue to innovate and inspire, Kim and Tyler Malek remind us of the power of food to connect us to our roots and to each other.
