Photo by Michael Piazza / Styled by Kyisha Davenport

For the final story I’ll share with you this year, a cross between a Q&A and a collection of personalized cocktail recipes, I reached out to a handful of my folks to thank them, shine the spotlight on them and make them (and you!) each a cocktail based on their favorite winter traditions and flavors. You’ll also learn a bit more about their phenomenal work in food, education and culture—all of which welcomes your support.

Maham Rizvi is a food systems associate for DAISA, a national team of food-equity consultants. One of DAISA’s clients is the Holyoke, MA–based Nuestras Raices, a community-ed grassroots urban agricultural organization. Asha Dirshe is a farmer at the Urban Farming Institute in Dorchester, which almost never needs an introduction but is always important to support! Be sure to connect with UFI in person and online.

KYISHA: What ingredient(s) did you choose, and why?
MAHAM AND ASHA: We immediately got on Facetime to brainstorm all of our favorite flavors and memories. At first, we were sold on a deliciously dirty martini, then a warming hot cocoa, but what made perfect sense was a warm turmeric shot or short tea. Food is medicine for us, and we show our love by caring for each other’s minds and bodies. In the winter we’re constantly checking in, dropping off soups, stocking up the deep freezer and making tea together. Turmeric is a special, powerful ingredient that we always use and always share.

KD: Where can we find it in Boston?
M&A: Turmeric is widely available, but its quality varies. Visit a local Pakistani, Nepali or Indian market. If you prefer to shop online, The Diaspora Co. is our top source for responsible, sustainably sourced herbs, spices and more.

KD: How did you two meet?
M&A: We met as board members for a local ’zine. Having both spent time in kitchens and farms, our love for food and friendship bonded us right away. When we connected with you and Sasha at Tanám, the circle just continued to bloom.

KD: Say we’re hanging out in Boston: Where’s our go-to place to eat and drink together—or what places do you recommend folks try out?
M&A: We love to go out, but honestly one of our favorite places to be is at each other’s homes. A pot of rice, delicious fish or meat from The Farm School in Athol, MA, a local gin we brought back from Vermont and a great playlist is all we need. Of course—we’re having a turmeric shot as well!

BOOZY TURMERIC SHOT

Makes 1 cocktail

6 ounces hot water
3 teaspoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon ghee
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2–3 drops oregano oil or a pinch of muddled fresh oregano leaves
1 ounce Mad River Maple Rum

Bring hot water to a low boil. Build maple, ghee, turmeric, pepper and oregano oil in a teacup or small mug. Pour hot water over mixture. Add rum and stir.

Serve hot.

This recipe appeared in the Winter 2022 issue as part of a larger story, Winter Cocktails: In Community.