Onje: saberes e práticas da cozinha de santo

Abstract

Candomble is a Brazilian religion based on African cults with a rich and multilayered nutritional system. In the present research, we follow a path through this system taking into account the discussions with the Yoruba mythology as well as the multiple narratives the idea of a “cozinha de santo” (literally ‘saints cuisine’) may present. The aim of this study is to focus on knowledge, taste, culture and traditions behind ritual food practices established in Candomble in order to illustrate how these different features organized enabled to create what is therefore called “cozinha de santo”. This concept is here analysed from the standpoint of the oral traditions founded on experience surrounding Yoruba and Candomble rituals by means of several methodologies which included case and interpretative research as well as bibliographic review on the theme. By studying the amount of ingredients, dishes and cooking techniques related to Orishas (African deities) in Candomble the text highlights the important role food plays in cultural rituals as long as it takes readers to our major findings.