As a child, the way I viewed food was rather straightforward, it was simply a something to fill you up. However, my family’s table was a melting pot of flavor, from Argentina to Thailand and many other countries. My mom is an excellent cook and loved to make a variety of new (to us) dishes such as Thai basil chicken or pork bao and other trendy foods, as well as some cherished family recipes such as pagash or pierogi. Additionally, my parents always made sure to serve a nutritionally balanced plate. Like a chip off the block, I slowly became an eager and curious eater, excitedly trying new dishes without hesitation. This openness was nurtured by the stories my grandparents shared about our cultural roots, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the significance of food beyond its taste. For example, my great grandparents were immigrants from Slovakia and Poland. Pagash, a simple yet delicious dish, was one of the many recipes my grandma brought with her. Additionally, Family gatherings were intertwined with the aroma of cherished recipes, and the act of preparing these dishes became a bond that connected generations.
Vividly do I remember an occasion from my teenage years that truly transformed how I came to view the matter of sustenance. During one summer I went on a visit to my grandparents’ rural homestead in Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania. I was granted first hand exposure to the unvarnished roots of my nourishment. Harvesting vegetables, collecting eggs, and participating in the entire farm-to-table process provided a profound revelation. I realized the value of agriculture and the intricate relationship between humans and the earth. I realized where produce actually comes, aside from the misted aisles of a grocery store. With this newly obtained viewpoint, I delved into learning about sustainable practices, exploring local and organic produce, and experimenting with cooking techniques that celebrated the innate flavors of each ingredient. As I transitioned into young adulthood, I embraced my unique culinary identity. Additionally, I competed in various culinary competitions and worked at several restaurants. Through this I found how wasteful we can be as a population. Due to this, conversations about the environmental impact of our food choices became as important as discussing flavor profiles to me. Sharing a meal with friends became an opportunity to educate and spark conversations about mindful eating and sustainability.
To reiterate, food has been and will continue to be a crucial topic in my life. It has allowed me to more greatly appreciate my culture and origins. Furthermore, I will never forget the time I spent on my grandparents farm. Finally, I have learned the importance of not reaping more than we sow, if you will.