Culture through Cooking

My Family History

 

My family has a strong connection to Nicaragua. My mother’s parents were born and raised in Nicaragua most of their life! When they met each other, they were married and decided to move to America to provide a better life for their children. I find it amazing that my mom and two aunts were the first generation to be born in America! They speak fluent Spanish, and I look forward to learning it this year. However, since Nicaragua struggles with poverty and war, I feel extremely lucky to live in the United States.

Last year I did a country report on Nicaragua, which was a great way for me to immerse myself in my family’s country of origin. This report helped me learn about the beauty as well as the turmoil and struggles Nicaragua holds. That February I visited my Grandparents, and discussed with them what life was like. They shared with me how each day was hard work on the farms, and smelled of their meals of beans and rice. This dish was Gallo Pinto, which was sometimes served for every meal! Gallo Pinto is a Nicaraguan staple,and a delicious one at that. This is why I choose to make it for this cookbook.