Celebrate apple season with SweetGrass Trading Company

Hands holding four apples in the foreground. The background is out of focus and shows a person wearing a taupe sweater and black shirt.

As the days grow shorter and the trees burst with color, fall brings us the crisp, sweet flavor of apples — a perfect ingredient for comforting, seasonal recipes. This apple season, SweetGrass Trading Company invites you to celebrate with unique pairings of fresh apples and our carefully sourced Indigenous brands.   Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or […]

Three Easter desserts celebrating Indigenous ingredients

As Easter approaches, why not infuse your holiday table with a delightful blend of tradition and innovation? Embrace the richness of Indigenous ingredients by incorporating them into your dessert offerings this season. From the sweet earthiness of maple syrup to the vibrant hues of wild berries, these three desserts showcase the diverse flavors and cultural […]

Find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift with SweetGrass Trading Co.

Show your love and affection this year with our Valentine’s Day gift list, curated to enchant and delight your loved ones. From soothing teas to illuminate cozy moments, to fragrant candles casting a warm glow, and indulgent self-care gift boxes designed for ultimate relaxation, our selection encompasses heartfelt tokens for every cherished relationship. Candle gift […]

Five unexpected ways to use Navajo Mike’s Barbecue Sauce

Navajo Mikes Barbecue Sauce

Established in 2020, Navajo Mike’s Barbecue started as a small dream in the kitchen and now has become a reality in the heart of Tempe, Arizona. Blending old-fashioned-style barbecue sauce with the homegrown taste of Arizona and diverse herbs and spices. Navajo Mike’s “Original” Southwest Style Barbecue Sauce can be used as more than a […]

Three recipes perfect for Holiday gatherings

blue bowl with pieces of elk meat, beans and peppers

As the holiday season approaches, there’s an undeniable magic in the air, and what better way to capture and share that enchantment than with a delicious, home-cooked meal? In this festive time of year, our kitchens become the heart of our homes, filled with the enticing aromas of spices, warmth, and the promise of memorable […]

Yaupon Brothers receives prestigious local award for sustainability efforts

Yaupon Brothers logo

Yaupon Brothers American Tea Co., a SweetGrass vendor, was recently recognized with a Made in the South Award from Garden & Gun magazine. The award was given in recognition of the company’s commitment to sustainability. According to the Garden and Gun website, the Sustainability Award, “celebrates a Southern maker who has committed to conservation and […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Jacques T. Watso

Chef Jacques Watso with crossed arms, traditional tattoos and wearing black button down shirt

Name: Jacques T. Watso Location: Odanak Education/background: Carpenter by trade Business name: Sagamité Watso Tribal affiliation: Abenaki Nation of Odanak What led to your passion for indigenous foods? Discovering and cultivating a passion for indigenous foods is often a unique and personal journey shaped by various factors. In my case I was raised with a […]

SweetGrass employees share their favorite products and recipes

Whether it’s the handcrafted items, the irresistible gourmet treats, or the carefully curated lifestyle products, SweetGrass Trading certainly has something for everyone. And each team member at SweetGrass has a unique preference and a favorite product they enjoy using. This Holiday season, SweetGrass team members enthusiastically share some of their favorite products and recipes with you…even […]

Customer Feature: The Museum of Native American History

Photo of the outside of the Museum of Native American History

Nestled in the town of Bentonville, AR, the Museum of Native American History (MONAH) stands as a testament to the rich and diverse heritage of Native American communities across North, Central, and South America. Established in 2006, this non-profit organization has a noble mission – to make the wonders of Native American history, art, and […]

Five must-see Native American documentaries

Hand holding a bucket of popcorn, tray with a drink in it and movie screen in the background

The month of November holds great cultural significance in the United States. It’s the time when we come together to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, a month dedicated to honoring the rich, diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American people. One impactful way to engage with and learn about Native American culture is through […]

Savor the season with these three easy autumn squash recipes

Variety of colors of squash

There’s no better way to celebrate the season’s embrace than by savoring the heartwarming flavors of fall. With its rich, earthy flavors and vibrant hues, squash offers a delicious canvas for creating comforting dishes that warm the soul. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, these three delicious fall squash recipes […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: David Skinner

Photo of Chef David Skinner by The Washington Post

Name: David Skinner Location: Kemah, TX Education/background: Bacehlor of Science in Finance, Bachelor of Science in Economics, Masters of Business Administration in Finance Business name: Eculent, th_prsrv (The Preserve) Tribal affiliation: Choctaw What led to your passion for indigenous foods? I grew up in Ponca City, OK, and both sides of my family loved to […]

Shop these four Indigenous businesses for back-to-school essentials

Small chalkboard with "Back to school" written on it and a stick of chalk sitting on the side

Numerous Indigenous businesses await your support this back-to-school season. Below, we’ve listed four of our favorites for everything from clothes and backpacks to stationery and makeup! For a more extensive inventory of Native-owned businesses, explore the Native Business Directory at  powwows.com. And remember to check out SweetGrass Trading Company for your essential food, gift, and […]

Five recipes that use ingredients from the garden

bundle of fresh garden vegetables in a wooden crate

Whether you have your own garden, use a community garden or buy fresh produce from a roadside stand, the recipe options using fresh garden fruits and veggies are nearly limitless. We’ve listed five recipes below using some of our favorite summer vegetables. Crunchy corn saladfull recipe at https://www.cookingclassy.com/corn-salad/ This recipe features freshly cut corn kernels, […]

Three must-read books to add to your summer reading list

Person in black t shirt reading an unknown book sitting on a desert hill in the sunshine

Are you struggling to complete your summer reading goals? We have you covered with three must-read books by Indigenous authors that you won’t be able to put down! What are some of your favorite Indigenous books? Let us know in the comments! Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley (2021) Firekeeper’s Daughter is a fictional story that […]

Vendor feature: Pemmican Patty

Patricia’s nephew Micah (left) and brother Mike (right) serve as co-founders and help with the food science and marketing aspects of the company

article from pemmicanpatty.com My name is Patricia Mabin. I am a descendant of Chief Little Thunder (Joseph Gourneau) and his father before him, Old Wild Rice, one of the earliest recorded chiefs of the Pembina/Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. I began this journey when my brother Mike and I were driving home after spending […]

Five Native-made products you need for your next summer cookout

Grill with open flame and hand holding a spatula over flame; person is wearing a denim apron and is outdoors

Summertime is finally here, and it’s the perfect time for a good cookout with family and friends. Whether you’re making burgers, steaks, fish or veggies, we have some great Indigenous products that will kick your cookout up a notch. Get creative and share with us in the comments how you use your favorite SweetGrass Trading […]

Stay cool this summer with herbal iced tea 

Iced tea with herb garnish on a white tablecloth and white background

Last June, SweetGrass Trading launched a new line of loose-leaf herbal teas, which are now available to purchase on our website. Our herbal teas can be served hot or cold, making them the perfect refreshing beverage any time of the year.   The tea comes in six delicious flavors: alfalfa spearmint, apricot-cinnamon, cinnamon cardamom, hibiscus […]

Five health benefits of Tepary beans you probably didn’t know about

Close up of basket of brown Tepary Beans

Tepary beans have been part of the Native way of life for years. They have been cultivated for at least a thousand years by the Natives of the Sonoran Desert, the Akimel O’odham and Tohono O’odham people.   The Tepary bean is believed to be the world’s most drought tolerant bean; they are grown along the Gila […]

Pinon Pine: How can I use it and what are its benefits?

pinon pine needles

Pinon Pine has been used for thousands of years by Indigenous people. The trees grow primarily in the Southwest, especially in New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona and Utah. Pinon Pine trees are most known for yielding edible pine nuts, a staple in Indigenous cooking.   Because Pinon Pine trees thrive in dry climates, they don’t require a […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Andrea Murdoch

Andrea Murdoch wearing a black hat, grey sweater and maroon shirt with a necklace, posing and smiling in front of a colorful mural

Name: Andrea Murdoch Location: Denver Education/background: Culinary Institute of America and community members Business name and title: Founder and Chef at Four Directions CuisineTribal affiliation: Andean  What led to your passion for indigenous foods? I am a transracial adoptee which means my parents do not share my ethnic or cultural background. I was living in Wisconsin when I was […]

Employee Spotlight: Rachel Steinkamp

photo of Rachel Steinkamp in a gray t shirt

What is your education and background? I am a senior graduating in May from Morningside University in Sioux City, IA, with a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and photography and a minor in advertising and religious studies. I was very active while at Morningside and enjoyed my four years at the University. What is […]

Five products to combat spring allergies 

Young adult woman coughing and sneezing outdoors. Sick people allergy or virus influenza concept.

The weather is warming up, the birds are singing, and Spring is in the air…but so is the pollen that causes uncomfortable symptoms such as a runny, itchy nose, coughing and watery eyes. Luckily, we have quite a few products that can help relieve some of those symptoms, so you can get out and enjoy the […]

Three Indigenous recipes to celebrate National Nutrition Month 

Bowl with wild rice, squash, beans and corn with spoon

March is National Nutrition Month, and we are celebrating by sharing three delicious recipes using indigenous ingredients! Throughout history, Native people have relied on a balanced diet to provide nutrition and subsistence. Beans, squash, wild berries, game, seeds and nuts are all examples of indigenous ingredients that fuel and support our bodies. Check out the […]

SweetGrass becomes recertified as a Minority Business Enterprise  

Certified NMSDC MBE 2023 logo

SweetGrass Trading Company recently received a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certification from the Mountain Plains Minority Supplier Development Council (MPMSDC) for 2023. The certification created many opportunities for growth and networking in 2022, and we are excited to see what we can accomplish as an MBE moving forward.   What is the MBE Certification?   The MBE Certification is awarded […]

Bison Star Naturals

Bison Star Naturals logo of black bison on white background with a star in the center

Bison Star Naturals was founded in 2018 by Angelo (Taos Pueblo) and Jacquelene McHorse. The husband-and-wife team met in 2007 while they were both freshman at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. Before opening Bison Star Naturals, Angelo managed a local farm and served as a wildlife ranger, while Jacquelene worked in dental offices, animal […]

Ho-Chunk Way committee presents donation to Tribal Farm

Ho-Chunk Tribal Farm team members and other Ho-Chunk employees with large check

From Ho-Chunk, Inc. Communications Congratulations to Winnebago Tribal Farm, the latest Ho-Chunk Way recipient! Ho-Chunk, Inc. employees have helped raise a record $73,000 and counting through the Ho-Chunk Way Employee Donations Program. A recent check presentation with Ho-Chunk, Inc. employees, Tribal Farm staff, and Winnebago Public School students took place at the LPTC Ag Extension classroom at […]

Five tips to healthier skin this winter 

Closeup studio shot of a woman touching her bare shoulder

Dry indoor heat and low humidity levels can starve your skin of moisture and leave it feeling dull, dry and itchy. Luckily, we have several products that can help heal and moisturize your skin, helping you feel refreshed and radiant!  Refresh dull, tired skin with a blue corn face mask This Blue Corn Face Mask gently […]

SweetGrass account manager graduates from Minority Business Enterprise University  

Molly Roe headshot

Molly Roe, account and brand manager at SweetGrass, recently graduated from the Mountain Plains Minority Supplier Development Council (MPMSDC) Minority Business Enterprise University. This is the second cohort of this course, and the 12-week program was provided at no cost to certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) across Colorado, Kansas, Western Missouri, and Nebraska.  The program […]

A Guide to Native American food trucks in the U.S. 

photo of the NAICCO food truck with Native designs and Tribal Nation flags

You might be surprised to know how many Native-owned food trucks and buses there are across the United States. From Minnesota to New Mexico to California, these spots are scattered throughout the U.S., offering Indigenous-inspired dishes, fry bread, soups and drinks! We put together a comprehensive list so you can refer to it on your next […]

Nizhóní Soaps receives Originativ Entrepreneur Award from Phoenix Suns 

Congratulations! Nizhoni Soaps 2022-2023 Originativ Entrepreneur Award with photo of Kamia Begay and Phoenix Suns logo

Nizhóní Soaps, a SweetGrass Trading Co. vendor, recently received the 2022-2023 Originativ Entrepreneur Award by the Phoenix Suns, presented by FirstBank.  The business was founded in July 2019 by now 14-year-old Kamia Begay. She and her parents, Rhianna Brown and the late Tom Begay, decided to start the business to share their all-natural Navajo Native American scents with the world.    Kamia […]

SweetGrass receives funds to conduct international research 

Rural Export Center US Commercial Service logo

Using funding from the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), SweetGrass Trading recently became the first company in Nebraska to conduct research with Rural Export Center Rural America’s Intelligence Service for Exporters (RAISE). The RAISE program provides rural U.S. companies with one-on-one market intelligence from a team who identifies customized industry-specific insights and contacts. SweetGrass will utilize this […]

Interview with an Indigenous Food Activist: Anthony Johnson 

Photo of Anthony Johnson in black sweatshirt with beaded necklace and Native art in the background

Name: Anthony Johnson Location: Seattle Education/background: University of Minnesota Twin Cities – Finance  Business name: ʔálʔal Café Tribal affiliation: Red Lake Ojibwe  What led to your passion for Indigenous foods? I didn’t grow up connected to my culture. I grew up in Minneapolis and, although it’s a very vibrant Native community, I was distanced from my culture due to historical […]

2022 Year in Review

2022 Year in Review graphic

We can’t thank our loyal customers and vendors enough for the successful year we’ve had. In 2022 we were able to attend conferences, give workshops and webinars to share industry knowledge and onboard new customers from across Indian Country. Below we’ve recapped some of the best moments of the year. We wish you and yours […]

SweetGrass represented at annual agriculture conference 

Intertribal Agriculture Council logo

Account and Brand Manager Molly Roe attended the 2022 Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC) Annual Conference this week and represented SweetGrass Trading Company. This year’s gathering marked the 35th anniversary of the IAC and was held at the Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas on December 6-8.  Roe met with attendees and agricultural leaders in Indian Country […]

2022 Holiday gift guide 

Holiday Gift Guide 2022

It’s time to get Holiday shopping wrapped up and we’re here to help. At SweetGrass, we have a gift for everyone – colleagues, clients, friends and family members…and even something for yourself! Below are some of our favorite gift ideas for 2022.   Gift boxes We currently have three gift box options, making it easier than ever […]

How to honor and respect Native American culture this Thanksgiving 

blue bowl with three sisters squash, corn and beans and wild rice

This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to see the Holiday through a Native perspective. While many of us learned that the first Thanksgiving included a joyful, peaceful meal between Native people and pilgrims, that isn’t the case at all.    In reality, the assembly of the Wampanoag people and English settlers in 1621 was less about a […]

Honoring Native American Heritage Month 

Native American Heritage Month graphic

November is Native American Heritage Month! According to the National Congress of American Indians, this month is “a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Native American Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to […]

Limited edition items for the Holidays 

Native Favorites gift box displayed

We have some exciting things in store for the Holiday season this year. If you’re looking for a gift for a friend, family member, colleague, or client, we have you covered. We will be offering two limited edition gifts this year. We will also have some great Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals you won’t […]

Saunooke’s Mill 

Mr. John Parker holding a bag of grits in the Saunooke's Mill store

Established in 1975, Saunooke’s Mill is a landmark on the Cherokee Indian Reservation at the entrance to the Great Smokies National Park.  The property on which the mill sits has been in the Saunooke family for many generations.  The land was handed down to Charles Saunooke from his parents, former Principal Chief Osley Saunooke and […]

Three comforting recipes to try this fall 

smoked salmon pasta on red and black plate

When the weather gets crisp and the leaves start to fall, nothing sounds better than a cozy night at home with a warm, home cooked meal. We have plenty of great autumn recipes on our website, but below we’ve highlighted a few of our favorites. Try them and let us know how they turned out!  […]

MORE health benefits of drinking tea 

Photo of pitcher of tea being poured into blue mugs

We previously covered the potential health benefits of enjoying a cup of tea, including soothing an upset stomach, improving sleep and blood pressure and managing weight. Today, we will cover even more health benefits. What are you waiting for? Grab a cup of Tribal Tea Co. loose-leaf herbal tea and start your health journey today!  […]

Interview with an Indigenous Food Activist: Ethan Tyo

Ethan Tyo in white shirt with white brick background

Name: Ethan Tyo Location: Syracuse, NY Education/background: Syracuse University ’17 G’22 Project name: The AlterNative Project Tribe: Akwesasne Mohawk, Wolf Clan  What led to your passion for indigenous foods? This project and the drivers behind it came from my personal experiences growing up in a food desert where many of our traditional food sources were damaged or restricted. It wasn’t […]

Maple syrup recipes that are perfect for autumn

bottle of passamaquoddy maple syrup with white background

There’s something about the toasty, sweet and savory taste of maple syrup that makes it the perfect addition to fall recipes and comfort food. Below, you’ll find a list of some of our favorite recipes* that utilize this versatile ingredient. Choose your favorite recipe and pick up your own bottle of Passamaquoddy Maple Syrup from […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Joe Robbins

Chef Joe Robbins in restaurant kitchen

Name: Joe Robbins Location: Milo, Maine Education/background: Professional restaurant experience for 10+ years Business name: Executive Chef at Bissell Brothers Brewing Company Tribal affiliation: Wabanaki   What led to your passion for indigenous foods? I’ve looked up to and learned from some of the other chefs that you’ve interviewed for this series, such as Sean Sherman, Brian Yazzie and Nephi Craig. […]

Frequently Asked Questions (revisited) 

FAQ concept on wooden cubes and flower in a pot in the background

We want to make sure our customers are always updated on the latest news and resources from SweetGrass Trading. Below, you’ll find some new FAQs, as well as ones we’ve covered in the past. Please email us at sweetgrass@sweetgrasstradingco.com if there’s anything we missed!   Are you Native owned?  Yes, we are owned by Ho-Chunk Trading […]

Why olive oil quality matters 

close up photo of olives on an olive branch

Have you been using the cheaper olive oil you can find on the shelf? You might be missing out on various health benefits and better tasting food! When it comes to olive oil, quality and source matters. Below we’ve covered a few of the reasons why you shouldn’t always reach for the least expensive bottle, […]

SweetGrass announces 2022 scholarship recipient 

photo of Grace Kennedy

SweetGrass is excited to announce Grace Kennedy as the 2022 Ho-Chunk Trading Group scholarship recipient. Kennedy is a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and resides in Kansas City, MO. She is a 2021 graduate of Staley High School in Kansas City.   Kennedy is a sophomore pre-nursing major at the University of Kansas with […]

Five must-try hot sauce hacks

Tomatillo salsa verde. Bowl of spicy green sauce on gray table, mexican cuisine.

Hot sauce is one of America’s most popular condiments, and according to a recent survey by grocery delivery service Instacart, 74 percent of people eat hot sauce with their food. With different flavors, heat levels and styles, it’s no surprise this versatile ingredient is so popular.   Some of the most popular ways to use hot […]

SweetGrass adds hot sauce to line of Native-made products 

Sakari Farms Fire Roasted Hot Sauce

SweetGrass is excited to announce a new product on our online store, Sakari Farms Fire Roasted Hot Sauce!   SweetGrass has worked with Sakari Farms (also known as Sakari Botanicals) for several years to provide items such as smoked salts, bath scrubs, salves, lotions, oils and much more to our customers.   The new Fire Roasted Hot […]

Red Lake Nation Foods

bottle of chokecherry syrup and wild rice pancake mix

Red Lake Nation Foods is owned and operated by the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians in Redby, Minnesota. The company was founded in 2005 as an effort to create jobs on the reservation and support food sovereignty. SweetGrass is proud to offer Red Lake Nation Foods wild rice, pancake mix and chokecherry jelly and […]

The mental health benefits of tea 

Cropped shot of a woman having a tea break at home

A warm cup of tea is the perfect way to start and end your day. Tea can help us unwind, leaving us feeling relaxed and calm. Tea can help relax your body, and it boasts several mental health benefits as well. Research is showing that enjoying a cup of your favorite tea can improve your […]

Four ways to “hack” your tea

close up of loose leaf alfalfa spearmint tea

Does the idea of drinking tea sound about as exciting as drinking hot water filled with grass? Don’t worry…you can use these simple tea hacks to improve your tea drinking experience and make it more enjoyable! Experiment with the ideas below until you find something you like. You can shop our line of loose leaf […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Jessica L. Pamonicutt

Chef Jessica Pamonicutt standing in front of trees and Land of Menominee sign

Name:  Jessica L. Pamonicutt Location: Chicago Education/background: Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Business name: Ketapanen Kitchen Tribal affiliation: Menominee  What led to your passion for indigenous foods?  I grew up in Chicago, 250 miles away from my home, my reservation, my family and my culture. When you grow up disconnected in such a way, I feel like […]

Summer skincare must-haves 

hands applying lotion

Heat, allergies, bug bites, sunburns…the summer months may be filled with vacations and adventure, but they’re not always kind to our skin! Luckily, we have an array of products that can help keep you moisturized, cleansed and glowing through the dry summer season!  Blue corn face mask  The summer heat and humidity can clog up […]

 Lakota Honey Lodge 

Lokota Honey Bottle

Lakota Honey Lodge products are developed by Honey Lodge Youth Enterprise, a program of the non-profit organization Lakota Youth Development (LYD). The organization is located on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota and presently includes all of Todd County within its recognized border.   Todd County ranks as the second poorest county in the U.S. […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Jordan Rainbolt

Indigenous Chef: Jordan Rainbolt infant of brick wall. Photo is in black and white

Name: Jordan Rainbolt Location: Winston Salem, NC Education/background: Chef apprenticeship through Johnson County Community College Business name: Native Root Tribal affiliation: Cherokee  What led to your passion for Indigenous foods? My mother has Native American heritage from her father’s side (Cherokee and Choctaw). Growing up, my mother taught my brother and I about Indigenous culture. I want to highlight this […]

Val’s Frybread

Vals Fry bread on a table next to soup

from the Val’s Frybread website  In 2018 Valene Hatathlie was working towards her master’s degree from Arizona State University while holding down a full-time job.    After getting laid off from her job, Val had to find another way to pay for tuition, program fees, and books. Initially, she tried selling her woven twill rugs, but […]

Interview with a Chef and Indigenous food activist: Amy Foote

Chef Amy Foote foraging produce

Name: Amy Foote, Senior Area Executive Chef Location: Anchorage, Alaska Education/background: Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Health Care Environmental Services Professional, Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts, Constant Learning Business name: Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Nana Management Services  What led to your passion for indigenous foods? I have had a passion for foraging, hunting, fishing and growing my […]

Five ways to use olive oil that you’ve probably never tried

bottle of olive oil with white background

We all know that olive oil can be used as for sautéing, baking and frying foods. You may even use it to make a dipping sauce for bread and crackers or as a marinade for meat and fish. Below, we’ve listed five ways to use olive oil that you may have never heard of. Do […]

Benefits of blue corn

Blue Indian corn

Blue corn is a variety of flint corn originally grown in Mexico. It was developed by the Hopi, the Pueblo Indians of the Rio Grande in New Mexico, and several southeastern U.S. tribes. Blue cornmeal is made from ground blue corn and is a staple in many indigenous dishes. It boasts several health benefits and […]

Ho-Chunk Way donates to Whirling Thunder, Youth Shelter

Whirling Thunder director with youth and large check

Provided by Ho-Chunk, Inc.  Two Winnebago community programs recently received nearly $92,000 total in donations from Ho-Chunk, Inc. employees across the company and country.  The contributions to Whirling Thunder Wellness Center and the Winnebago Youth Shelter are through the Ho-Chunk Way Employee Donation Program, an employee initiative to make a direct and lasting difference in […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Brian Yazzie

Chef Brian Yazzie in front of a Native outdoor mural

Name: Brian Yazzie Location: Saint Paul, MN Education/background: Associate of applied science in culinary arts Business name: Yazzie The Chef, Yazzie The Chef TV, Intertribal Foodways, The Yaz Podcast Tribal affiliation: Dine’/Navajo  Brian Yazzie aka Yazzie The Chef (Diné/Navajo) is a chef and food justice activist from Dennehotso, AZ, and is based out of Saint Paul, MN. He is […]

Five ways to serve smoked salmon

Close up view of a slate tray with smoked salmon on rustic wood table. DSRL studio photo taken with Canon EOS 5D Mk II and Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

Smoked salmon has been made and enjoyed by Native people for thousands of years, and Natives hold salmon in high respect. Many tribes depended heavily on the dish to get them through cold winter months and long journeys. Smoked salmon is made by salting and smoking fresh caught salmon at a high temperature so that […]

Yaupon vs. tea – What are the differences and similarities?

yaupon holly

Guest piece by Bryon White, joint CEO and co-founder of Yaupon Brothers American Tea Co. In America, the term “tea” is often applied to virtually any infusion of herbal plant material and water, regardless of whether or not that plant material is actually derived from the tea plant. For the sake of convenience, this article […]

Navajo Mike’s Barbeque Sauce

bottle of Navajo Mike's barbecue sauce with white background

Navajo Mike’s was founded in 2020, during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, by Michael John. John realized there are all kinds of barbecue styles including Texas style and Kansas City style; however, there wasn’t much representation in Southwest style barbecue.   John decided to change that, and began experimenting using prickly pear cactus juice, […]

Interview with an Indigenous food activist: Kirsten Kirby-Shoote

Interview with an Indigenous food activist: Kirsten Kirby-Shoote

Name: Kirsten Kirby-Shoote  Location: Detroit, Michigan   Education/background: Worked as an apprentice on multiple farms  Business name: Seed steward at Leilú Gardens   Tribal affiliation: Tlingit   What led to your passion for indigenous foods?   My passion mostly stems from not seeing representation or accessibility, in tangible forms, of indigenous foods. Detroit is really far ahead of […]

A guide to Native American restaurants across the U.S.

A guide to Native American restaurants across the U.S. a photo of a restaurant with a white plate and wine glasses

Planning a family vacation or road trip? Don’t forget to add these Native American restaurants to your itinerary! Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Native restaurants in the U.S. Let us know if you have another favorite Native restaurant, café or food truck in the U.S. that we may have missed!  […]

Cooking with salsa: thinking beyond the tortilla chip

Santa Fe Seasons Fire Roasted Salsa

When most of us think of salsa, we probably associate it with a heaping bowl of tortilla chips. Salsa is such a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of unique, delicious ways. Here are some ideas we came up with. Order our Apple Canyon Gourmet salsa today and try some of these out, then let us know your favorite way to […]

Comforting Native American recipes to make for Christmas dinner

"Any" Bean Soup

Looking to change things up for your Christmas dinner this year? Look no further! Below are three hearty, comforting Native dishes that you and your family are sure to love. Let us know what your favorite Native dish is in the comments!  “Any” bean soup  1 ½ cups washed dry beans (we recommend Ramona Farms Tepary beans)  7 cups […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Nico Albert

Nico Albert headshot

Name: Nico Albert  Location: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tribal Lands (Tulsa, OK)  Education/background: Self-taught chef & caterer  Business name: Burning Cedar Indigenous Foods  Tribe: Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma  What led to your passion for indigenous foods?  As a chef, I connect and communicate through the language of food. I grew up in California and Arizona, far removed from my Cherokee community. […]

2021 Holiday Gift Guide

2021 holiday gift guide

It’s time to wrap up Holiday gift shopping! Whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, colleague, teacher or client, we have you covered. This year’s gift guide features some of our classic favorites as well as some exciting new items you won’t want to miss out on. Place your order by Dec. 17 to ensure […]

Honor Indigenous culture this Thanksgiving with a Native dish

indian corn soup

This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to see the Holiday through a Native perspective. While many of us learned that the first Thanksgiving included a joyful, peaceful meal between Native people and pilgrims, that isn’t the case at all.   In reality, the assembly of the Wampanoag people and English settlers in 1621 was less about a friendly celebration and meal and […]

Quinault Pride Seafood

quinaultprideseafoodlogo

Quinault Pride Seafood was established in 1960 by the Quinault Indian Nation on the Washington coast on the Olympic Peninsula. The Taholah, Washington, based company was founded to create economic sustainability through carrying on the way of life of the Quinault people. The company’s mission is to provide jobs to the community and preserve the Quinault heritage.   According to the Quinault […]

I-Collective launches multimedia cookbook project

i-collective logo

The I-Collective is releasing a multimedia, digital cookbook featuring recipes, videos, stories and more from Indigenous chefs and community members. The cookbook will also feature supplemental webinars to help teach community members about the importance of food sovereignty and traditional food systems for Indigenous peoples.  The goal and purpose of this project is to create meaningful conversations […]

SweetGrass becomes member of national Native American tourism group

AIANTAlogo

SweetGrass recently became an official member of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA). According to the organization’s website, “For nearly two decades, AIANTA has served as the national voice for American Indian nations engaged in cultural tourism. In addition to serving as the voice for Indian Country tourism, AIANTA provides technical assistance and training to […]

SweetGrass YouTube channel seeks to educate consumers on using Native American foods

Smoked salmon pasta dish

One of the main goals at SweetGrass is to make Native-made products accessible to all through our online store. We want to make sure everyone, even those in urban areas, are able to purchase things like sage, Indian Corn, wild rice and Native-made beauty products. However, it’s about more than accessibility — it’s also about education.   In 2020, SweetGrass began a major […]

Three recipe ideas for your next summer potluck

Caprese salad close up

Outdoor picnics and potluck dinners are back this summer, and we’re here to help you make a dish that will leave friends and family saying, “Share that recipe with me!” These three recipes take a modern spin on classic Native foods such as smoked salmon, wild rice and Tepary beans! Let us know your favorite potluck meal […]

tawâw: Progressive Indigenous Cuisine by Shane Chartrand

Tawaw Cookbook

Born to Cree parents and raised by a Métis father and Mi’kmaw-Irish mother, Shane M. Chartrand has spent the past ten years learning about his history, visiting with other First Nations peoples, gathering and sharing knowledge and stories, and creating dishes that combine his diverse interests and express his unique personality.   The result is “tawâw: Progressive Indigenous […]

Types of corn and how to use them

various corn

This post is inspired by the book “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” by Sean Sherman  The early cultivation of corn made a huge impact on Native people. Not only did corn feed many people, but it didn’t require hunting, fishing, trapping or gathering. Growing corn could be done from home. This freed up time to […]

Easy snacks with roasted local seeds

Squash seeds pouring from a jar

This post is inspired by the book “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” by Sean Sherman  Seeds of local vegetables such as squash, pumpkin, sunflower and maple make a delicious, healthy snack when roasted. They can also be used in sweets such as cookies and granola, or as a garnish for salads and soups. Once roasted, […]

Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company

Bryon and Kyle White

Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company was founded in 2012 in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, by brothers Bryon and Kyle White.  Bryon, who has a background working in law enforcement, said he has always been a plant enthusiast and is part of the Florida Native Plant Society. When he started diving into the story of Yaupon, […]

Bee pollen: What is it and how do I use it?

Ioway Bee Farms bee pollen

Most of us know about the health benefits of raw, organic honey products. But what about bee pollen? What is it and how can it be used? Bee pollen is a mixture of flower pollen, nectar, enzymes, wax, honey and bee secretions. Honey bees collect pollen from wild plants and flowers and bring it back […]

Wild greens to forage for indigenous recipes

dandelion greens on a basket

This post is inspired by the book “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” by Sean Sherman  Many people don’t know that wild greens such as dandelion greens, purslane and plantain can be used in various recipes. These plants are typically picked from lawns and considered nuisances, but many wild greens are packed with healthful vitamins and […]

Takelma Roasting Company

Takelma mug, coffee bag and grinder with a natural background

Takelma Roasting Company was founded in 2017 and is owned and operated by the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe, which is located in Southwestern Oregon. Takelma is the traditional language of the Tribe, and is only spoken in that region.  The Tribe launched the company after realizing how much they were spending to supply […]

Ramona Farms

Ramona and Terry Button photo

Ramona and Terry Button began farming in 1974 on a ten-acre allotment near Sacaton, Arizona, on the Gila River Indian Reservation. Their first crops included barley and alfalfa; the Ramona Farms line of products has since grown to include wheat and corn products, black eyed peas, garbanzo beans and Tepary beans. Ramona’s father, Francisco ‘Chiigo’ […]

Interview with an Indigenous Chef: Crystal Wahpepah

Crystal Wahpepah headshot

  Name: Crystal Wahpepah Location: Oakland, California Business name: Owner, Wahpepah’s Kitchen Tribe: Kickapoo  What led to your passion for Indigenous foods? I always loved Native foods and I got to cook at a young age with family. It came so natural for me to be in the kitchen, like it was my gateway to […]

CatSpring Yaupon

Abianne Falla and JennaDee Detro

Native herbs and seasonings to keep on hand

photo of seasonings on spoons

This post is inspired by the book “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” by Sean Sherman  Keep these herbs and seasonings in your pantry to add flavor and depth to your indigenous recipes.Some of these grow in the wild and can be foraged. For those that aren’t available, visit your local organic market or health food […]

How to cook with Tepary beans

variety of Tepary beans

SweetGrass Trading Company is proud to offer a variety of black, brown and white Tepary beans from Ramona Farms in Sacaton, AZ. Tepary beans have been part of the Native way of life for years. They have been cultivated for at least a thousand years by the Natives of the Sonoran desert, the Akimel O’odham […]

Indigenous cookbooks to add to your reading list

person looking at cookbook

Looking for inspiration on how to cook indigenous recipes? We’ve compiled a list to help you begin. Check out the cookbooks below (in no particular order) for indigenous recipes, cooking tips and tricks, and even traditional stories! Keep in mind there are many other authorized indigenous cookbooks available. These are eight to help you get […]

SeaBear Smokehouse

pacific-northwest-smoked-salmon-collection-2018-a_1

SeaBear Smokehouse was founded in 1957 by fisherman Tom Savidge and his wife, Marie, in Anacortes, Washington. The pair began selling smoked salmon to local taverns and cafes and their product became quite popular.  The company, now called SeaBear Smokehouse, was originally named Specialty Seafoods. The name was changed in the early 90s to ground […]