How we all eat is influenced by our cultures and food traditions. No matter what traditional practices we follow, whether eating from a bowl or right of a full plate or being curious about the cultural foods we consume, they all ultimately influence our nutritional needs. Hence, March being Nutrition Month is vital because it is a time to honour the countless foods and cultural dishes we eat and our hardworking dieticians. A healthier future requires various ingredients that dietitians explore during Nutrition Month. As well as components that can positively affect one’s health, there are significant changes like recommended eating schedules that can be implemented for the masses, not just now but also in the future. Dietitians also explore food sovereignty, food justice, food policy, and combating misinformation about our foods, eating habits, etc.
So with Nutrition Month in full force, we urge you to do something different with your diet. Embark on a new tasty journey and try some other culturally delicious dishes. Here is a list of some to enjoy:
1. Feijoada
BRAZIL
In addition to former Portuguese colonies such as Macau, Mozambique, and Angola, this dish originated in Portugal. The stew is made with beef, pork, garlic, onions, and bay leaves and is traditionally eaten on Saturdays. However, pace yourself as it is quite a heavy meal.
2. Borscht
UKRAINE
This soup is famous in Eastern and Central Europe and originated in Ukraine. The main ingredient in borscht is beetroot and stock and sauteed vegetables. It may be served hot or cold, so it’s perfect as low stress and quick meal.
3. Goi Cuon
VIETNAM
These delicious spring rolls include prawns, pork, rice noodles, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper. They are typically eaten by dipping them in a spicy chili sauce mixture.
4. Paneer Butter Masala
INDIA
Indian subcontinental cheese called paneer can be paired perfectly with butter masala, a tomato-based sauce rich in creaminess and spices. You can have either rice or flatbread as an aside with this dish.
5. Paella
SPAIN
It is a notable Spanish dish and is well known globally. It is cooked with chicken and seafood, but sometimes vegetarian renditions are available. Its title is inspired by the Latin word patella, roughly translating to the phrase “frying pan” in English.
6. Bacalhau
PORTUGAL
Bacalhau is Portuguese for cod. It consists of potatoes; however, garnishings such as parsley, hard-boiled eggs and olives are also included.
7. Bunny Chow
SOUTH AFRICA
Hollowed-out bread stuffed with curry forms the basis of this South African tasty dish. Migrant Indian workers discovered that bread was a convenient way to transport curries between sugar cane plantations and their homes. And thus, this meal was born.
8. Koshari
EGYPT
A tomato-vinegar sauce is mixed with rice, macaroni, and lentils and topped with fried onions and chickpeas. Vegetarians can enjoy this filling meal at roadside stalls and restaurants throughout Egypt. Garlic juice and hot sauce are sometimes added.
We would love to hear what you think about these dishes? If you have tried them or would like to try. We would love to feature you on our social media channels. Upload your favourite dish and tag us #ubcgssfoodies on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
