sweet salone: recipes from the heart of sierra leone

As a small country on the west coast of Africa, throughout its history Sierra Leone has always embraced diversity - and this willingness to discover and grow has shaped Sierra Leone’s rich food culture. Forged by history, people and place, the cuisine is completely unique. Maria Bradford’s recipes, inspired by her grandmother’s cooking, have at their heart the traditional meals of Maria’s childhood, introducing delicious Afro-fusion dishes and flavors. Characterized by key ingredients including tamarind, beans, sesame seeds, mango, chili and pineapple, in Maria’s hands these ingredients become something truly special. Moreover, she tells the story of the cuisine and the people, shedding light on everyday life through exclusive location photography. Through her evocative writing and innovative dishes that draw on tradition while melding contemporary influences, Maria’s Sweet Salone is a stunning culinary dive into recipes and a culture unmatched anywhere in the world.

Maria Bradford grew up in Freetown, and started helping her mother prepare meals from about nine years of age. Inspired by her heritage, Maria prepares traditional African dishes and high-end Afro-fusion cuisine. Maria studied at Leith’s School of Food and Wine and founded Maria Bradford Kitchen in 2017, which became known as Shwen Shwen. Her catering is in high demand for corporate events and private dining throughout the UK and Africa. Maria lives in the south of England with her husband and two children.