I was so excited when I heard the assignment for this week because I’m finally able to write about something that is positive and uplifting surrounding the country of Liberia. I think it’s quite sad that when it comes to African countries, we are so quick to point out what is wrong or corrupt or heartbreaking and often times choose to allow the positives to take a back seat in our news. When I think about all the struggles that Liberia has had to overcome throughout the years and even the continent in general, it’s almost impossible to fully comprehend. Yet it’s important to remember that not one thing defines a country and its citizens. Especially in Africa things like AIDS, Ebola, famine, war and inequality are discussed more frequently and with more passion because we have it in our minds that African will always be the continent that is in need. For my blog this week, I have chosen to talk about Liberian cuisine!! It is a part of Liberia that deserves to be celebrated because it is something that even the poorest towns can contribute to. Unlike politics or the economy, many different types of people have the opportunity to cook from tradition, imagination or ideas from those around them.
My town, Utica NY is widely known as “The town that loves refugees” and something that I take great pride in. The church where my dad is a pastor has personally welcomed numerous refugees from Ghana, the Sudan, and Liberia. I have first hand (or taste) of the marvelous food that hails from the country of Liberia and it is outstanding! The thing that I admire most about African meals is that it revolves around a sense of community. For my friends and their families, sitting down to eat dinner is more than just a routine event; it is a time that should be and often times is an opportunity to connect with those that mean most to you. My church has put on several potlucks and I am always amazed at not only the fragrant and delicious meals that are offered up but also the stories of companionship and overall love and care that went into the construction of each dish. They do not simply throw together a pasta dish, they take the time to present something that hails from their respective countries and encourage people to step out of their comfort zones and give something new a shot!
Rice is one of the biggest staples in the diet of a Liberian and can be eaten several times throughout the day as a way to provide the starch needed for sustenance. It’s also very convenient that many people can grow their own rice, which just means an easier way to provide food for their families. A popular side that accompanies most meals is fufu, which is almost like very doughy bread that is often times used with soup or stewed meat in sauce to soak up the juice. Since it is so doughy, it can be difficult to actually chew so people widely just swallow the bites of it whole.
My absolute favorite Liberian dish is called Cassava Leaf Stew with chicken. Cassava is a starchy root that really can take on the flavors of whatever it is cooked with. The Cassava is boiled down with the chicken (generally thighs and legs), tons of spices are added and it is all served over a nice fluffy serving of white rice with a side of fufu.
Liberia is just one of several countries with much more to offer than simply negative news. The cuisine enjoyed by Liberians is something to be celebrated and acknowledged. If the opportunity is presented, I hope you take the chance and try something new!
http://www.foodbycountry.com/Kazakhstan-to-South-Africa/Liberia.html