“If you really want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him… the people who give you their food give you their heart.” – Cesar Chavez
I was thinking recently about the government shutdown and how that impacted the food security of so many. The “upside” if you will is that this issue was brought front and center to Americans who may not have been aware of the millions of people in our country who struggle for adequate nutrition.
Thankfully, there is at least a temporary remedy for those in need through the renewal of the SNAP program and the food pantries, businesses, churches, and the population in general who have stepped up to help fulfill the needs, which are great.
The quote I have used in my column today reflects a truism that I believe resonates throughout the world. Sharing a meal with loved ones, friends, even strangers can open doors to understanding and can bring down the temperature of a heated discussion or one that makes those involved uncomfortable, especially during the holidays. After all, who wants to discuss politics over the candied sweet potatoes or buttered rolls … and those who might wish to may well have been “overserved” before mealtime!
Food is one thing we all need, can relate to, enjoy, and help us through the hurried stressors of the holiday season. Making those human connections through our sharing of food and leaving oneself open to different cultural fare can be enlightening and bring a new appreciation for those folks who “are not like us” and I think most of us at one time or another has had those thoughts or inclinations. Opening your sense of gastronomic adventure should be on our so-called “bucket list” as it can be very rewarding. If you are in the very traditional turkey/ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, et al, maybe think outside the box. Some cultures, obviously, do not have a heritage of the traditional Thanksgiving meal but offer their own holiday fare options, such as:
- Finland: Smoked fish or roast ham are usually served.
- Mexico: Families gather to make and eat tamales, a dish of corn dough stuffed with fillings and steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.
- Poland: A meatless Christmas meal is usually served and includes pierogi (dumplings) and cabbage rolls.
- Sri Lanka: Lamprais is a dish of spiced rice, curry, and meatballs that is wrapped in banana leaves and baked.
- A popular dessert from Greece is melomakarona – honey cookies that are dipped in spiced syrup.
Remember that we are part of a rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds which includes delicious options for our palates! The founding of our country 250 years ago brought the English, the Scots, Germans, French, and others to our shores along with their varied cuisine. Let’s continue that legacy and whether that includes your family or friend gatherings or whether that special meal takes place at your home, dining out or take out, turkey and dressing or lasagna and cannoli, keep an open mind and share not only your food, but your heart. Bon Appétit!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.