At Orlando Village, diversity is not just a concept; it’s a way of life. With residents from over 30 countries, our community thrives on the rich tapestry of cultures that define us. One of the many ways we celebrate this diversity is through our Cultural Potluck Dinners – vibrant events that showcase the culinary delights and traditions from around the world. Following the success of our last International Feast, co-hosted by our Nigerian residents who treated us to a delicious feast of Jollof, we’re excited to continue fostering cultural connections and sharing our diverse heritage. In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of these cultural celebrations and provide a simple recipe for making Jollof – a beloved West African dish that’s sure to tantalise your taste buds.
Celebrating Diversity Through Food: Our Cultural Potluck Dinners are a celebration of unity in diversity, where residents come together to share their cultural heritage through food. Each dish tells a story and serves as a delicious reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community. From spicy curries to comforting stews, the variety of cuisines on offer reflects the unique backgrounds and traditions of our residents. These gatherings are more than just meals; they’re opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate our shared humanity.
Our last International Feast, co-hosted by our Nigerian residents, was a resounding success. They treated us to a mouth-watering feast of Jollof – a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, and an array of spices. The aroma of the fragrant rice filled the air as residents gathered around to savour each delicious bite. The event was a testament to the power of food to bring people together and foster a sense of community.
Recipe for Jollof: Here’s a simple recipe for making Jollof at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and peppers, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, thyme, curry powder, paprika, and ground ginger. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes have softened and the spices are fragrant.
- Add the parboiled rice to the pot and stir until well coated with the tomato mixture.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
At Orlando Village, our Cultural Potluck Dinners are more than just meals – they’re celebrations of our shared humanity and the diverse cultures that make our community vibrant and unique. Whether you’re sharing a plate of Jollof with Nigerian residents or sampling dishes from around the world, these gatherings foster connections and create lasting memories. So, join us as we continue to embrace diversity, celebrate cultural connections, and share the joy of good food with one another.
