Colu Henry
*PLEASE NOTE this post was written by Colu in April 2020 <3
Author of Back Pocket Pasta and NYT Cooking Contributor
Where were you raised? Has the landscape of that place influenced your work in any way?
I was born in the city, but raised in the suburbs of the lower Hudson Valley. I moved back to the city after college and after 15 years in Brooklyn, my husband and I ended up in Hudson, NY. I never thought that would happen, but clearly I'm subconsciously drawn to the region. Being a food writer, I love being surrounded by the incredible agriculture that I have access to, so yes, in regards to how I approach food, it certainly has. I am grateful that I know my farmers and get to support them. It brings a lot more meaning to the work.
How do you recharge your creative battery?
Truthfully, I’m not great at it. But, I think taking mental space from what you’re doing is always a good thing. Some of my best ideas come to me when I least expect them and generally when I’m on the brink of boredom. I’m working on another cookbook right now and I find that when I’m able to put it down for a spell, I’ll get inspired in the kitchen again and cook because I want to, not because I have to. When things become monotonous, creativity is hard to cultivate.
What book are you reading?
Right now I’m reading Pachinko, which I am loving. It was lent to me by my next door neighbor and friend Kelly who is a writer and runs a cool account called Shirley Books. She is my go to for any book advice. She also turned me on to Sally Rooney this past summer and I nearly lost my mind. I re-read one of the Laura Ingalls Wilder series each year, this time around it was The Long Winter, and I’m sure you can imagine why.
What was the last thing that you fell in love with?
The white cherry blossoms that burst open on my dining room table, which is currently also serving as my desk. They reminded me that spring is still happening and to stop and appreciate beauty in the small things.
What do you love most about yourself?
My passion. When I’m moved by something, nothing will stand in my way. Whether it’s my day to day work or organizing politically, I find power in it and I’m energized by it. If you believe in something so strongly and express yourself, it becomes contagious.
What do you think is the most important quality in a human?
To be gracious, kind and humble, no matter how successful you are.
Do you have a spiritual practice?
I am a spiritual person and believe that the universe works, but I don't have a set practice. I'm a big advocate for mental health, so if therapy counts, maybe that's it? Becky Sternal has been a real godsend for me. She incorporates somatic work and we talk about Buddhism sometimes too. She gave me life changing advice as I was struggling with my book by telling me to write from love not for it, my world exploded.
Who are your role models?
Bernie Sanders, José Andrés, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, and the strong incredible women in my life I am lucky to call chosen family.
If you could change one thing about our world, what would it be? Is there an individual or an organization doing work in this area that you want us to know about?
I believe in universal healthcare and economic, racial, and social equality. We are at a place right now where unless huge change happens in America, we are truly doomed as a nation. I am sad and feel helpless a lot, but I will continue to fight.
Before I die I want to…
Travel the world. I’ve been lucky enough to spend a fair amount of time in Europe, but I’d like to visit southeast Asia, Australia, you name it! Travelling helps keep me inspired and translates into new recipes and story ideas. It gives me life.
All photos courtesy of Colu Henry
