On January 4th, we recognize World Braille Day, honoring the importance of Braille as a vital tool for independence and inclusion for individuals with visual impairments. It’s also a perfect occasion to celebrate the achievements of Christine Hà, the first blind winner of MasterChef and an inspiring advocate for accessible kitchens.

Christine Hà, often known as “The Blind Cook,” didn’t let vision loss deter her dreams. Diagnosed with Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) in her twenties, Christine gradually lost her sight but discovered new ways to express herself through cooking. Using touch, taste, smell, and sound, she adapted to navigate the kitchen, proving that creativity knows no boundaries.

In 2012, Christine made history by winning Season 3 of MasterChef. Her mastery of flavors, combined with her innovative techniques, impressed the judges and inspired viewers worldwide. Since then, she has authored a cookbook, Recipes from My Home Kitchen, and opened a successful restaurant, The Blind Goat.

As we celebrate World Braille Day, let’s honor pioneers like Christine Ha, who demonstrate that disabilities are not limitations but opportunities for innovation and growth. Her story inspires us to embrace inclusivity in all aspects of life, from the kitchen to the community.

Christine’s Recipe: Easy Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

Here’s a recipe from Christine Ha’s repertoire to try at home: her Easy Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits. This Southern classic is a versatile base for breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, or strawberry shortcake. Christine emphasizes keeping ingredients cold to achieve flakiness, a principle useful for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (keep chilled)

3 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling

2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1 large egg

1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon buttermilk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Make dough: In a food pro, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add chilled butter and pulse until mixture is mealy; transfer to large bowl. Alternatively, you can freeze the butter and grate it into the flour mixture before tossing for even flakier biscuits. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk; fold into flour mixture until just combined.

Form biscuits: Knead dough on a floured surface until it just comes together. Flatten with fingertips or rolling pin into square 3/4” thick and fold4 sides into center; repeat. Roll out dough again to 3/4″ thickness but do not fold again. Cut with biscuit mold.

Bake biscuits: Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer biscuit dough to baking sheet and brush with melted butter; sprinkle with sugar. Bake until golden brown, approx 15 to 18m.

Resources for Bakers with Disabilities

Christine’s advocacy for accessibility inspires others to reimagine what’s possible, not only in cooking but in fostering independence and confidence. From tactile measuring tools to Braille cookbooks and online tutorials designed for diverse abilities, today’s resources make the kitchen a more welcoming space for all. Below, we explore a range of tools and support systems that empower bakers with disabilities to thrive and innovate in their culinary pursuits.

Braille and Large Print Cookbooks: Cookbooks like Recipes from My Home Kitchen are often available in accessible formats.

Tactile and Adaptive Kitchen Gadgets: Tools such as Braille measuring cups, talking thermometers, and silicone mats with raised edges help ensure accuracy and safety. View items here.

Perkins School for the Blind: Offers tips and resources for adaptive cooking.

Hadley: A nonprofit providing workshops and guides for blind and visually impaired individuals, including cooking tutorials.

American Council of the Blind: Connects individuals to resources and advocacy programs for accessible cooking. They have a program called Cooking without Looking.

Blogs and YouTube Channels: Christine Ha’s blog, The Blind Cook, offers recipes, tips, and inspiration for visually impaired cooks.