Susana Trilling Seasons of My Heart Cooking School Death and Obituary – With profound sorrow, the world bids farewell to Susana Trilling, the celebrated chef, teacher, author, television host, and beloved founder of Seasons of My Heart Cooking School in Oaxaca, Mexico. Susana’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life devoted to culinary arts, cultural preservation, and a deep, unwavering love for the traditions of Oaxaca. Her influence spanned generations and continents, leaving an indelible impact on the culinary world.
Born in the United States, Susana Trilling was far more than just a chef; she was a storyteller, a cultural ambassador, and an advocate for the richness of Oaxacan foodways. Her journey began decades ago when she fell in love with Oaxaca’s vibrant culture and its diverse culinary traditions. Susana’s passion for the region’s food, deeply rooted in history, was not something she merely studied; she embraced it, learned from local cooks, and formed close ties with indigenous communities, always with the utmost respect and humility.
Her groundbreaking cookbook, Seasons of My Heart: A Culinary Journey Through Oaxaca, Mexico, along with the accompanying PBS cooking series of the same name, introduced the world to the flavors of Oaxaca, a region rich in culinary diversity. These works earned her recognition as one of the foremost authorities on Mexican cuisine. Her dedication to preserving the culinary traditions of Oaxaca and sharing them with the world was a labor of love that transcended mere cooking. She sought to connect people to the land, history, and culture through the medium of food.
In 1999, Susana founded Seasons of My Heart Cooking School, nestled in the picturesque Oaxacan countryside. The school became a hub for culinary enthusiasts from around the globe, where Susana welcomed students with warmth, generosity, and a deep commitment to teaching not just recipes but the stories behind each dish. Her classes were vibrant and filled with joy, laughter, and the infectious spirit of Oaxaca.
At the heart of her teachings was her respect for the indigenous women cooks of Oaxaca. She revered their knowledge and skills, and her cooking school became a sanctuary where local traditions were not just honored but celebrated. Her influence extended far beyond the kitchen; students left her school not only with enhanced culinary skills but with a profound connection to the culture and people of Oaxaca.
Susana’s passion for food was matched only by her love for people. Her infectious laugh, radiant personality, and boundless enthusiasm for the culture of Oaxaca made her a beloved figure. She saw food as a means of storytelling, a vehicle for cultural preservation, and a way to build community. She worked tirelessly to support local artisans, farmers, and communities, ensuring that the traditions she held dear would endure for generations.
Her legacy is carried on through the thousands of students, home cooks, chefs, and readers whose lives she touched. It lives on in the recipes passed down, the dishes shared, and the love for Oaxaca’s culture that she helped spread across the globe. Susana’s team at Seasons of My Heart remains dedicated to continuing her mission of culinary education and cultural preservation.
Although Susana Trilling has passed, her impact on the world will never fade. She may no longer be physically with us, but her spirit, passion, and love for Oaxaca will live on in every meal, every lesson, and every person whose life she touched. Her legacy will continue to inspire, nourish, and connect people for years to come. Susana will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.