Last October 23rd, Cebu International School celebrated International Day. During this joyful occasion parents, students, and teachers gathered to appreciate the diverse cultures of nations around the globe. Among the many representations of culture emphasized during this momentous day, there was one specific component that was highly praised by the crowd, the food.
Food represents the comforts of home and the sense of belonging that comes along with it. It lightens up any day and has your heart full of contentment and happiness. Especially after long and challenging days, these delicious highlights make each person feel extremely stuffed, but at ease.
The Classic Cebuano Dish – “Lechon”
Lechon baboy, or as the locals call it, “litson baboy”, is a popular dish originating from Carcar, a city in Southern Cebu. It’s usually prepared by marinating and roasting a whole pig cooking over a charcoal fire until it is crispy and golden brown on all sides, then marinating the skin with soy sauce to balance out its flavors.
The Korean Grab-and-go Meal – “Gimbap”
Kimbap (or gimbap, 김밥) is a Korean seaweed rice roll filled with a variety of delicious fillings. Gim (김) is a dried seaweed, and bap is rice. With these various fillings, these rice rolls have a savory combination of textures and flavors.
Traditional Japanese “Makizushi”
Makizushi is a type of Japanese sushi roll filled with various fillings, from canned tuna, vegetables, and eggs. The term “makizushi” refers to the fact that the sushi is rolled—maki means “to roll,” and zushi is the conjugated version of the word “sushi.” It is perfect for appetizers or finger food at parties or potlucks. In Japan, it is often prepared for celebrations.
Savory Chinese “Siumai”
Siu mai is a popular Cantonese dumpling that is believed to have originated in Southern China. These delicacies are made with a filling of ground pork and shrimp, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, or water chestnuts. The filling is wrapped in a thin layer of wheat dough and formed into a small, open-topped purse shape. The dumpling is often garnished with a small dot of orange roe or carrot, giving it a pop of color. The result is a beautiful flower-like dumpling that is served with a classic soy sauce dipping sauce.
Signature Israeli “Falafel”
Falafels are deep-fried balls or patties made from chickpeas or fava beans, together with fresh herbs and spices. This dish is a popular Middle Eastern street food sold from vendors or fast-casual spots in countries such as Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey and Israel, where it’s the national dish.
Article by Monty C. (G11)
Feature Image taken by Sofia J. (G12)
References:
barokandtakya. (2021, July 14). The World’s Best Lechon Baboy. Bisaya Podcast. https://barokandtakya.com/the-worlds-best-lechon-baboy
Hyosun. (2015, November 5). Vegan kimbap. Korean Bapsang. https://www.koreanbapsang.com/tofu-gimbap/
Make Simple Makizushi Japanese Sushi Rolls for Your Next Appetizer. (n.d.). The Spruce Eats. https://www.thespruceeats.com/makizushi-japanese-sushi-rolls-2030172
Dumpling Delving: An Introduction to Chinese Dumplings | Institute of Culinary Education. (2023, July 3). Www.ice.edu. https://www.ice.edu/blog/types-chinese-dumplings
What Is Falafel? (n.d.). Food Network. https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-is-falafel
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