Taste of the Nations

One of Forward Edge’s most dearly held values is the importance of relationships. And what better way has God given us to bond with others than over a table of good food. Culture is often shared through food. Sharing meals isn’t just about filling our stomachs—it’s about connection over stories, experiencing others’ customs and traditions, and coming together as equals around the same dinner table.

Sharing meals is something close to God’s heart. It’s how Jesus ministered to the lost (Luke 5:29-31), where He discipled those closest to himself (John 13-17), and even an image He used to teach important Kingdom values and mindsets (Matthew 22:1-14, Luke 14:7-11). 

We’ve put together a handful of recipes near and dear to our hearts. They’re some of the staple foods eaten in the countries where our children’s programs are located.

Whether you’ve been on a mission team to one of the locations and you’re yearning for the familiar flavors of your distant friends, or you sponsor a child and would like to learn more about their culture through food, or you’d just like to enjoy a new recipe with your family, these recipes are a tasty way to connect with others. These recipes can also be used to open up some great conversations with your children about other cultures and the importance of learning about God’s global family.

We hope you enjoy trying something new!

1
Picadillo (Cuba)
Picadillo is considered one of the staple dishes in Cuban cuisine. It's a dish that many Cubans grew up eating, often prepared by their grandmothers or mothers, and it evokes memories of home and family. Picadillo is incredibly versatile and ingredients can easily be swapped out depending on what's available. Connect with our Cuba program by making this delicious dish and learn how we're helping children in Cuba at www.forwardedge.org/cuba.
Check out this recipe
2
Pikliz (Haiti)
Pikliz is typically used as a condiment on fried foods like griot (fried pork) and fried plantains, enhancing their taste and providing contrast with its acidity and heat. But honestly it's great on it's own as a summer side dish or when you need something crunchy with a bit of heat. Connect with our Haiti program by enjoying this recipe and learn how we're helping children in Haiti at www.forwardedge.org/haiti.
Check out this recipe
3
Carlota de Limón (Mexico)
Carlota de Limón is a dish held dear to many as a sweet treat enjoyed during family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. This dish is simple, tangy and sweet, something easy to put together whenever the fancy strikes. Connect with our Mexico program by enjoying this recipe and learn how we're helping children in Mexico at www.forwardedge.org/Mexico.
Check out this recipe
4
Pilau with Beef (Kenya)
Pilau with beef is a traditional and iconic dish in Kenyan cuisine, it's often served during special occasions and celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. But we have found it to make for an amazing dinner any time of the week. Connect with our Kenya program by making this delicious dish and learn how we're helping children in Kenya at www.forwardedge.org/kenya.
Check out this recipe
5
Pilau Masala (Kenya)
The rich flavors in Pilau Masala are a staple in Kenyan cooking, often mixed into rice. These flavors reflect Kenya's diverse culinary landscape, showcasing a blend of indigenous African spices with those brought over by traders and settlers. Connect with our Kenya program by enjoying this recipe and learn how we're helping children in Kenya at www.forwardedge.org/kenya.
Check out this recipe
6
Jollof Rice (Ghana)
Jollof rice is the signature meal of Ghana. It is often served alongside fish or fufu, a staple food made of boiled and pounded starchy root vegetables. Connect with our Ghana program by making this delicious dish and learn how we're helping children in Ghana at www.forwardedge.org/ghana.
Check out this recipe
7
Banana Bread (Ghana)
Bananas are a staple ingredient in Ghana. This banana bread goes extra heavy on the bananas, making it moist, soft and sweet. Connect with our Ghana program by making this delicious dish and learn how we're helping children in Ghana at www.forwardedge.org/ghana.
Check out this recipe
community

Pikliz Recipe from Haiti

Pikliz is a spicy, tangy condiment made primarily from pickled cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and Scotch bonnet peppers, seasoned with vinegar and spices. It adds a burst of flavor to Haitian dishes, particularly fried foods like griot (fried pork) and fried plantains, yum! Pikliz is often made in large

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child sponsorship

Why Didn’t I Cry?

By Melanie Kruse Off On a Mission Trip  I’ve never been on a mission trip like this. This was the first time we served with Forward Edge and the first time our two daughters had joined us, but that’s not what made it different. On this trip I didn’t cry.  

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From our CEO

Life Advice Part 3: Let God’s Will Come to You

Tim Ainley, CEO of Forward Edge, recently shared an inspiring message at a graduation commencement ceremony that is a timely and impactful message for us all. But, especially for recent graduates, young adults, and teens, these words could be the guiding principles you need as you step into a world

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easter

Lent and Lament

In the midst of Holy Week, we find ourselves in a unique season of self-isolation and deprivation that coincides with the religious tradition of Lent observed by many Christians. Lent is a time of preparation – a period of giving up or sacrificing something in preparation for something better that

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Transform a Child's Life Through Sponsorship

Ka wula (hello), my name is Mariam

  • location

    Ghana

  • 19 yrs. old

    12-19-2006

Entered the program: March 2023

Mariam lives with her parents and three siblings in a three-bedroom mud house roofed with thatch; they have no latrine. The village has access to electricity for purchase but it often runs out before they can buy more. They have no access to potable water. Water is fetched from a local dam until it dries up, then the village women and girls must travel long distances to find other sources. This interferes with work and school attendance.

Mariam comes from a Muslim family but she and her younger sister, Rahamatu (also in the program), have accepted Christ. Mariam’s father is a farmer but barely harvests enough food to last throughout the year. Her mother tries to sells rice to help provide. They live on about $20 a month and before coming to Create Hope, they sometimes ate only once a day. Before joining the program, Mariam and her sister could not attend school regularly. Also, like many girls her age, Mariam misses school during her monthly cycle since they cannot afford sanitary supplies.

Sponsorship Level What's this?

Three $38 sponsorships are needed to cover the complete holistic care of one child. Cover one, two, or three sponsorships.