Made in Tarrant: With ‘Calibama’ Background, Keller’s Chef Lorious Finds Her Way to Walmart Shelves
From her early days cooking alongside her grandmother in Alabama to her current success as the culinary creative behind the gourmet wine-infused jam brand Jam Vino, Lori Rogers, also known as Chef Lorious, has crafted a unique culinary journey rooted in her “Calibama” background.
Tarrant County’s Culinary Influence
Though now proudly Texan, Rogers’ culinary expertise has been shaped by her diverse experiences. Growing up in a close-knit church community, she was immersed in the rich traditions of Southern cooking, learning from the skilled “church mothers” around her. This foundation was further enhanced by her family’s California roots, which imbued her approach with innovative flair and a passion for pairing flavors.
After moving to the Lone Star State two years ago, Rogers has embraced Tarrant County’s vibrant food scene, becoming a regular on “Good Morning Texas” with her Taste Texas segment. Her commitment to celebrating the region’s bounty has made her a beloved figure in the local culinary community.
Lorious’ Calibama Roots
Rogers’ “Calibama” heritage – a blend of California’s wine-infused cuisine and Alabama’s soulful Southern flavors – is the driving force behind her culinary creations. This unique fusion is evident in her cookbook, “Calibama Cooking: Classic & Contemporary Comfort Food,” which was published in 2019 and showcases her ability to seamlessly blend diverse influences.
“Being from California and being a church girl, though my family’s roots are from Alabama, I ended up with this really interesting mixture of influences,” Rogers explains. “The innovation of California, the wine of California, of course, but then also a lot of Southern influences – and that’s where the jam making comes in.”
Culinary Craft and Expertise
Rogers’ passion for cooking and entertaining has been a constant throughout her life. From hosting Thanksgiving dinners to leading cooking demos at Williams Sonoma, she has honed her skills and built a devoted following. Her intuitive understanding of flavor pairings and her commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients are hallmarks of her culinary approach.
“I’ve always loved to stand there with my grandmother when she’d be cooking,” Rogers recalls. “I’d say, ‘How do you know when it’s good? How do you know when it’s ready, Grandma?’ She would say, ‘Taste it, baby.’”
This deep-rooted connection to her culinary heritage and her innate creativity have enabled Rogers to develop a unique product line that seamlessly blends the essence of California and the soul of the South.
Keller’s Restaurant: A Showcase of Talent
While Jam Vino has catapulted Rogers to national recognition, her culinary prowess is equally evident in her work at Keller’s, a renowned restaurant in the heart of Tarrant County.
Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
At Keller’s, Rogers showcases her mastery of both classic and contemporary comfort food, offering a menu that delights and surprises. Signature dishes like her grilled cheese sandwiches, elevated with the decadent Blackberry Merlot jam, and her grilled salmon topped with Raspberry Moscato glaze, have become local favorites.
“I would pair it with one of my favorites and a favorite around my home is havarti with blackberry merlot,” Rogers says. “It just takes it to a whole ‘nother level. It just works.”
Sourcing Local and Seasonal Ingredients
Rogers’ commitment to using the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients is evident in the ever-evolving menu at Keller’s. By highlighting seasonal produce and collaborating with nearby farms and artisanal producers, she ensures that each dish reflects the bounty of Tarrant County’s rich agricultural landscape.
Innovative Culinary Techniques
Beyond her exceptional ingredient selection, Rogers’ culinary expertise is further demonstrated through her innovative cooking techniques. From her masterful use of decanting to enhance the flavors of her wine-infused dishes to her precise application of sous vide to ensure perfectly cooked proteins, her attention to detail is unparalleled.
The Chef’s Accolades and Recognition
Rogers’ culinary prowess has not gone unnoticed, as she has garnered numerous accolades and recognition for her contributions to the local and regional food scene.
Awards and Honors
Among her most prestigious achievements, Rogers was named the 2023 “Chef of the Year” by the Fort Worth chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association. This honor is a testament to her unwavering dedication to elevating the culinary landscape of Tarrant County.
Media Features and Appearances
In addition to her regular segment on “Good Morning Texas,” Rogers has been featured in various local and national media outlets, including the Fort Worth Report and Edible DFW, where she has shared her insights and showcased her exceptional culinary skills.
Community Involvement
Beyond her professional successes, Rogers is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She actively mentors aspiring chefs, sharing her knowledge and experiences to inspire the next generation of culinary innovators. Additionally, she champions sustainable practices and works to address food insecurity in the region, further solidifying her reputation as a culinary leader with a heart for service.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Chefs
As Chef Lorious continues to make her mark on the culinary world, she remains steadfast in her mission to inspire and empower the next generation of culinary artists.
Mentorship and Culinary Education
Through her work with local culinary programs and her own hands-on demonstrations, Rogers is dedicated to passing on her knowledge and expertise. She takes great pride in mentoring young chefs, sharing the lessons she’s learned throughout her own journey.
Advocating for Sustainable Practices
Deeply committed to environmental stewardship, Rogers advocates for sustainable practices in the food industry. She emphasizes the importance of sourcing local, seasonal ingredients and reducing food waste, ultimately working to create a more sustainable and equitable culinary landscape.
Giving Back to the Community
Rooted in the values instilled by her church upbringing, Rogers consistently gives back to the community, using her culinary talents to support local organizations and initiatives. Whether catering events for charitable causes or collaborating with food banks, her dedication to serving others is a testament to her holistic approach to the culinary arts.
As Jam Vino’s products make their way to Walmart shelves and Keller’s continues to captivate diners, Chef Lorious’ story serves as an inspiring example of how culinary passion, innovation, and community-mindedness can converge to create a truly remarkable culinary legacy. Her “Calibama” roots have not only shaped her own successes but are now poised to inspire the next generation of chefs and food enthusiasts in Tarrant County and beyond.