Welcome to Farms and Flour: A Journey Through Farming and Family Recipes

Hello and welcome! My name is Lakan Britt, and I’m excited you’re here. This space, Farms and Flour, offers a peek into my life in northeast Missouri. I’m the owner and operator of a family farm where I raise cattle, tend to row crops, and care for a lively flock of chickens. Life on the farm is never easy, but it is always rewarding.

From a young age, I was immersed in two worlds that might seem very different but have always gone hand in hand: farming and cooking. My dad and grandpas taught me the grit needed to work the land and raise animals, while my mom and grandmas instilled the patience and creativity that fuel a great meal. Many cherished memories come from standing alongside them in the kitchen—measuring, stirring, and kneading—learning that the heart put into cooking is as crucial as the quality of the ingredients.

The Influence of Family

My grandmas were the heart of our family’s table. One was the true baker, and her legacy continues to inspire me each time I roll out dough or pull fresh bread from the oven. The aroma of freshly baked bread still reminds me of her warm kitchen, filled with laughter and the comforting sounds of family gatherings. My other grandma poured just as much love into her canning and her famous baked beans. Those beans weren’t just a dish—they were her way of showing us she cared, and to this day we beg her to bring them to every family dinner. The sight of her carrying in that big dish always brought smiles, and somehow her food carried a warmth that matched her hugs.

And then there’s my mom, a master at grilling and smoking food, who could take any cut of meat and turn it into something unforgettable. With the three of them as my guides, I couldn’t go wrong—I had every aspect of a beautiful, delicious meal covered. Together, they showed me that food is more than just what’s on the plate; it’s about creating memories, sharing traditions, and bringing people together.

Later, I pursued my studies at the University of Missouri, focusing on hospitality management while immersing myself in culinary classes. These experiences gave me a strong foundation that I blended with family-taught skills. For instance, I learned to make my baking grandma’s famous sourdough bread, perfected over decades, while cherishing my other grandma’s canning recipes and her tender, memory-filled beans, and drawing on my mom’s techniques for smoky, flavorful meats. This fusion of tradition and innovation has significantly shaped the way I approach both cooking and baking today.

Life on the Farm

Through this blog, I want to share the rhythm of farm living alongside the joy of creating something delicious in the kitchen. Each week, you will find a mix of farm stories, a look into the daily tasks and challenges of rural life, and recipes that are close to my heart. Some will be beloved family favorites passed down through generations, while others will emerge from my culinary adventures inspired by seasonal ingredients. For example, using fresh-picked tomatoes from our garden to make a rich marinara sauce not only enhances flavor but also celebrates our harvest.

The farm is a living, breathing entity, and every season brings its own challenges and rewards. Spring is busy with planting seeds, and by fall, we reap the fruits of our labor. With our livestock, managing farm life can be demanding, yet immensely fulfilling. Each task teaches resilience and patience. For instance, keeping records of livestock health and crop conditions helps ensure productivity and sustainability, aspects that are vital for a thriving farm.

Cooking from the Heart

As I navigate the ups and downs of farm life, I find solace in the kitchen. Cooking is not just a necessity; it’s a passion that allows me to express my creativity. Whether I’m whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for family gatherings, I pour my heart into every dish. The ingredients I use often come straight from the farm, making each meal a celebration of the land and labor involved. For example, a simple roasted chicken meal becomes special when paired with garden-fresh vegetables, creating a sense of connection to the farm.

I believe that food has the power to bring people together. It’s a universal language that creates connections. That’s why I’m excited to share my favorite recipes with you—each one tells a story, whether it’s a cherished family recipe or a new creation inspired by the seasons.

We often celebrate special occasions with shared meals, fostering connections and creating lasting memories.

Join Me on This Journey

I invite you to join me on this journey through farming and family recipes. Together, we’ll explore the beauty of rural life, the joy of cooking, and the importance of community. I hope to inspire you to embrace simple pleasures, whether it’s growing your own food, trying out a new recipe, or gathering around the table with loved ones.

As we embark on this adventure, I encourage you to share your own stories and experiences. What does farming mean to you? How do you connect with food in your life? I want to create a community where we can learn from one another, share our passions, and celebrate the beauty of life’s simple moments.

A Culinary and Agricultural Adventure Awaits

Thank you for stopping by Farms and Flour! I’m thrilled to have you here, and I can’t wait to share my world with you. From the fields to the kitchen, every aspect of my life is intertwined, and I hope to inspire you to find joy in everyday moments. Stay tuned for delicious recipes, heartwarming stories, and an authentic glimpse into the life of a farmer and cook. Here’s to the journey ahead—let’s make it a flavorful one!