Nuodeng, Yunnan, China, 2010
The village of Nuodeng has long been famous for its salt production and aged hams, which are dried in the fresh mountain air. It was in 2010, while visiting our daughter Marika in China, when we were drawn by the timeless allure of this tiny Bai minority village from another age. Today, salt production is considerably less important, but the ham itself is worth the trip!
Ethné de Vienne was born in Trinidad, so spices and cooking have always been a part of her life. She worked in fashion for many years before finally building the renowned Montreal catering service with her husband Philippe. Today, as a full-time spice hunter, she takes great care in maintaining Épices de Cru’s relationships in its vast network of suppliers around the globe. She’ll never deny that any dish can be improved by a little cumin or zaatar, and probably a nice glass of rum!