Topik (Chickpea and Tahini Dumplings)

Introduction: Topik is a Western Armenian Lenten specialty, most closely associated with the Armenian communities of Istanbul, made from a mashed potato and chickpea dough wrapped around a sweet-savoury onion and tahini filling. Cultural Background: Topik is a Western Armenian Lenten specialty, most closely associated with the Armenian communities of Istanbul, made from a mashed […]

Khashlama (Lamb and Vegetable Stew)

Introduction: Khashlama is a slow-simmered stew of lamb and vegetables cooked with minimal added liquid, relying instead on the natural juices released by the tomatoes and onions as they cook down over hours. Cultural Background: Khashlama is a slow-simmered stew of lamb and vegetables cooked with minimal added liquid, relying instead on the natural juices […]

Puchero

Introduction: Puchero is a one-pot boiled dinner of beef, sausages and root vegetables descended from the Spanish cocido, adapted in Argentina with local squash, corn on the cob and sweet potato. Cultural Background: Puchero is a one-pot boiled dinner of beef, sausages and root vegetables descended from the Spanish cocido, adapted in Argentina with local […]

Argentine Ensalada Rusa

Introduction: Despite the name, this potato and vegetable salad bound in mayonnaise became a staple of Argentine tables through European immigrant communities in the 20th century and is now a fixture at picnics, holiday spreads and casual asados as a cooling counterpoint to grilled meat. Cultural Background: Despite the name, this potato and vegetable salad […]

Pastel de Papa

Introduction: Argentina’s version of shepherd’s pie, pastel de papa layers a seasoned beef picadillo with a smooth mashed potato topping, reflecting the strong British and Italian culinary influences on the country’s home cooking. Cultural Background: Argentina’s version of shepherd’s pie, pastel de papa layers a seasoned beef picadillo with a smooth mashed potato topping, reflecting […]

Argentine Sopa de Mondongo

Introduction: A hearty tripe and vegetable soup with Spanish and Italian roots, mondongo soup has long been a nose-to-tail dish that stretches inexpensive cuts into a filling, warming meal, traditionally served on cold days in rural households and small-town fondas. Cultural Background: A hearty tripe and vegetable soup with Spanish and Italian roots, mondongo soup […]

Papas a la Provenzal

Introduction: Despite the French-sounding name, papas a la provenzal is a thoroughly Argentine dish of crisp fried potatoes tossed with garlic and parsley, a staple side at steakhouses and parrillas nationwide, reflecting the Italian and French immigrant influence on Buenos Aires cuisine. Cultural Background: Despite the French-sounding name, papas a la provenzal is a thoroughly […]

Ducana and Saltfish (Ducana)

Introduction: Ducana is a sweet, steamed dumpling made primarily from grated sweet potato and coconut, wrapped in banana or plantain leaf and gently simmered until firm. Cultural Background: Ducana is a sweet, steamed dumpling made primarily from grated sweet potato and coconut, wrapped in banana or plantain leaf and gently simmered until firm. Rooted in […]

Chicken Roti

Introduction: Roti arrived in the Caribbean with indentured Indian labourers brought to the region in the 19th century, and though most strongly associated with Trinidad, it has become a beloved lunch staple across Antigua and Barbuda through regional migration and trade. Cultural Background: Roti arrived in the Caribbean with indentured Indian labourers brought to the […]

Antiguan Pepperpot

Introduction: Pepperpot, served alongside fungee, forms the recognised national dish of Antigua and Barbuda. Cultural Background: Pepperpot, served alongside fungee, forms the recognised national dish of Antigua and Barbuda. This hearty one-pot stew traces its roots to early Amerindian cooking traditions and was later enriched by African culinary influence, evolving into a deeply savoury combination […]