What Is Convivir?

Translated literally, convivir means “to live together.” When I speak of convivencia (coexistence), my thoughts turn to living together, commingling, and respecting one another’s space, culture, values, and viewpoints—all of which can happen through food. That is what makes this book special. The pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, the war in Ukraine, the culture wars—these and countless other current events have changed our world forever. It is my hope that through sharing recipes or a meal, we can find some common ground “on a plate,” a renewed respect, and the will to create changes for the better. The dinner table is an almost sacred space, one where we are able to share our life experiences, our knowledge, and the stories that made us who we are today. Being proud of your heritage and culture at this moment in time, when diversity is finally being celebrated, is exciting. It is this pride in my own culture, as a Mexican and as a Californian, that motivates me to share my cuisine with others.