2024 has flown by and now the holidays are in full swing, giving friends, families, and loved ones a chance to connect over food around the table. Food brings people together, and in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Comcast California blog editorial staff is reflecting on a beloved team event centered around food and community.
Earlier this year, author, blogger, and chef Esteban Castillo of Chicano Eats visited our Fresno office for a live cooking demonstration that was broadcasted to Comcast employees across California. Hosted by Unidos, Young Professionals Network, and OUT Employee Resource Groups, the live event highlighted Esteban’s passion for food and provided an inclusive experience for employees to connect over life, cooking, and culture.
Esteban is a queer Chicano (Mexican-American) who lives in California’s Central Valley with his husband and three dogs. He is the author of the award-winning cookbook and food blog, Chicano Eats, where he explores his bicultural identity as a Chicano through a blend of personal stories and flavorful foods. Known for bright and captivating photography, Esteban released a second cookbook, Chicano Bakes, to showcase delicious treats such as pan dulce Mexicano (Mexican sweet bread), pasteles (cakes), and antojitos (small bites).
Esteban’s culinary inspiration comes from his family, paying homage to his roots with every recipe. “Food has always played a big role on my mom’s side of the family. It’s how they earned a living. Their love for food inspires me to continue introducing the regional cuisine of Colima to a new audience.” Esteban holds a special place in his heart for his grandma who often opens her jardín (garden) and transforms it into a restaurant in Colima, Mexico.
Esteban’s recipes are not only rich in tradition and flavor, but they are also accessible for people of all skill levels. “Keeping my recipes easy and accessible is important to me. When I started cooking as a college student, reading through recipes gave me anxiety. I like to make sure anyone at any level can pick up one of my recipes and easily work through them without a fuss,” says Esteban.
With over 230,000 followers across social media, Esteban’s mouthwatering recipes reach audiences near and far, inspiring many to start food traditions of their own. Whether you are cooking a main dish like birria (beef stew seasoned with chiles and spices), baking a tres leches cake, or mixing a pitcher of agua fresca, Chicano Eats recipes can be made at home using fresh, local ingredients. If you are searching for inspiration, Esteban recommends visiting neighborhood farmers markets to whip up ideas. “The great local produce we can find here in the Valley guides and influences my recipes. Often just walking through the farmers market and seeing what is in season shapes ideas for recipes,” adds Esteban.
Our thanks to Esteban for sharing his journey and providing an amazing lunch for our team. Check out the Chicano Eats blog and Instagram for amazing recipes for your holiday dinner table. From all of us here at Comcast California, have a great Thanksgiving and holiday season!
