Sweet Grown Alabama Blogs

Say hello to Chef Jonathan Harrison, a 2025 Sweet Grown Alabama Ambassador and former contestant on Next Level Chef! With a passion for creating unforgettable dishes using fresh, local ingredients, Jonathan showcases the best of Alabama’s agricultural bounty through his culinary expertise. From farm to table, he is dedicated to supporting local farmers and bringing bold, Southern flavors to every plate. Follow along as he shares his journey, delicious recipes, and the stories behind the ingredients that make Alabama cuisine truly special!

1. Who is Jonathan Harrison? 

Jonathan Harrison is a chef from Columbiana, Alabama obsessed with southern food and local ingredients. After a run on Gordon Ramsay's Next Level Chef in 2022, Jonathan has been all over the world cooking and spreading the gospel of southern cooking. 

2. How did you begin your cooking journey? 

My cooking journey began when I was 12. I made Ina Garten's red wine braised short ribs and never looked back. 

3. What is your all-time favorite meal?

My favorite meal of all time is probably some version of braised meat over rice. There is absolutely nothing better than braised beef tips, stewed chicken or shrimp creole. It just works in every way. 

4. What draws you to locally-grown products? 

The thing that draws me to locally-grown products is the quality. We grow some of the most beautiful produce in the country and I eat it up, literally! 

5. Where is your favorite spot in Alabama?

I've got two favorite spots in Alabama. The first is my home lake, Lay Lake, there is nothing like a sunset on Bulley or Beeswax Creek. There's also nothing like the purple sunset skies of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. I love these two places so very much. 

6. If you had to pick just ONE of the following to keep, which would you choose and why? Local sweet corn, strawberries or peaches? 

This is a TOUGH one, but I think I would have to go with local sweet corn strictly due to its versatility. You could make massa, corn meal, grits and more! Corn also minimally provides an alternative milk that pairs well with beautifully delicate flavors like saffron and big bold flavors like mulberry. I am a BIG fan of sweet corn. 

Follow @chef_jonathanharrison on Instagram to see his posts promoting locally grown this year!