Betty Crocker Maker: Melinda Sekela

Residing in Brooklyn, New York, I am a graphic designer and writer with a lifelong devotion to cooking and a deep affection for collecting vintage cookbooks and dishware.

On my YouTube series, Unboxing Betty, I embark on a culinary adventure through Betty Crocker's 1971 Recipe Card Library, delving into the fascinating influence of food corporations on American culture. This extraordinary collection is a treasure trove of mid-century delights, featuring astonishing ingredient combinations and eye-catching presentations. From tomato aspic and Chiffon cakes to deviled ham snacks and jello molds, I am thrilled to explore these forgotten atomic-age dishes that have fallen out of fashion, while also forging connections with my viewers as they reminisce about their family's culinary heritage.

Beyond the entertainment value of unraveling peculiar and outdated food trends, my series serves as an educational exploration into the historical impact of food corporations like General Mills on the broader American food culture. By fearlessly embracing experimentation and sharing my own culinary triumphs and mishaps, I engage viewers in an enlightening journey that examines how consumer food brands have shaped the way we cook — both nationally and within our individual family and community traditions.

Blog: Unboxing Betty
IG handle: @unboxingbetty