A member of Łııdlı̨ı̨ Kųę First Nation is making her television debut as the co-host of Back to Roots, an APTN program that delves into Indigenous food, ingredients and life experiences.
Her name is Denia Baltzer and she has been behind the stove since she was eight years old. Baltzer now owns a catering company at the foothills of the Rocky Mountain in Alberta.
The show follows Baltzer and returning host Perry Omeasoo as they hunt for wild meat and forage for wild berries, mushrooms and herbs. The two experienced chefs then turn these natural ingredients into tasty dishes and share their stories about food.
“Through this process, I realized how fortunate I was to grow up the way I did,” says Baltzer. “I think in the North, there’s still such a connection to our culture and to living off the land that we almost take it for granted.”
Baltzer was influenced by all the great cooks in her family. Her parents were creative in making food appealing with a limited budget, and there are always warm and hearty food at every family gathering.
“We cooked duck soup in the first episode, and that’s one of my favorite things to eat. It was always so exciting when we have that first pot of duck soup in the spring,” says Baltzer.
Baltzer sees this show as an opportunity to share her knowledge on hunting and harvesting, as well as some simple and nutritious recipes based on traditional Indigenous food.
“A lot of people equate things like canned meat, craft dinner and deep-fried bread as Indigenous food. And I think those things became more predominant because of food insecurities in our communities,” says Baltzer.
According to Statistics Canada, a third of Indigenous people have experienced food insecurity. That’s about 15% higher than that experienced by non-Indigenous people.
“The Canada Food Guide is well-taught in schools, but it’s not necessarily accurate for remote communities where accessibility to fresh produce is really hit and miss and very expensive,” says Baltzer.
Baltzer notes that food insecurity is reflected in the rising health issues in Indigenous communities.
“Our bodies aren’t used to living fully on that type of food,” says Baltzer, “I think it’s important for us to try to get back to a way of living that’s more self-sustaining.”
Baltzer encourages people to harvest, hunt and fish whenever possible as a way to preserve traditional methods and to bring home more nutritious and affordable food.
“Most of the food that I cook [in the show] is really approachable and easy to make, so I hope people could try it out themselves and see if they like it,” says Baltzer. “I really hope it’ll spark a little bit of curiosity.”
The show airs every Wednesday at 7 p.m. on APTN. Upcoming episodes feature bison brisket, elk tenderloin, yarrow mocktail and more.
