During the holidays, our thoughts turn ever hopefully to the idea of world peace. It’s not easy in the face of the headlines, and it’s easy to feel helpless as individuals. Changing your eating habits will do nothing to stop to violence of cultural conflicts today, but taking the time to explore foods inspired by other cultures and using a family meal as an opportunity to take interest in other cultures can be a wonderful way to engage your children in a respectful consideration of different perspectives, which, small as it may be, is a step worth taking. We’ve pulled a few healthy, yummy recipes from a few different cultures from our database, just to give you some ideas to start.
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Enchilada Casserole
Enchilada casserole is probably best described as Tex-Mex instead of Mexican, using a lasagna-like layering technique with typical enchilada ingredients, but it’s a simple and delicious take on Mexican cuisine that your family will gobble up. (3 Guiding Stars)
Mediterranean Vegetable Stew
Paring olives and vegetables with rich spices and chickpeas is more authentically Greek than many American experience, so this may be a good dish to pair with a more familiar side. We’re sure your family will be won over by the flavor after they’ve tried it in small portions once or twice. (3 Guiding Stars)
French Lentils with Chard
This French country dish (not to be confused with the more intimidating haute cuisine) is simple and cozy. Excellent bread and good cheese are French traditions worth pairing with these lentils. (3 Guiding Stars)
African Peanut Soup
A variation on maafe, a dish which varies widely throughout various regions of West Africa and which originated in Mali, this soup would also make a good curry-like sauce to be served with the vegetables, lean meat and whole grain of your choice. (2 Guiding Stars)
Moroccan Chicken & Couscous Salad
Using curry power to simplify the ingredients, this salad mimics the rich spices of Morocco in a delightful, family-friendly, slightly sweet salad that is delicious hot or cold. (2 Guiding Stars)
Asian Noodle Salad
Noodles are often acceptable food to even the pickiest eaters, and we think this delightful salad is no exception. Get buy-in from your kids by asking them to pick their favorite veggies to add or replace some of the veg in the recipe as written. (2 Guiding Stars)
Coconut Chile Fish Curry
Here’s a spicy option that might be best tried with your more adventurous eaters. The spice profile and coconut base is inspired by Thai cooking and would work well with Thai basil and a pile of fresh veggies. (1 Guiding Star)