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
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Transform a Child's Life Through Sponsorship

Miredita (hello), my name is Theo

  • location

    Kosova

  • 15 yrs. old

    09-21-2009

Entered the program: September 2023

Theo lives with his mother and sister in a one-bedroom apartment that they own. The family lived for many years in a rented apartment but the owner was always threatening to evict them as they couldn’t pay the rent regularly. Theo’s uncles and some cousins gathered enough money together to buy them the apartment they’re in now. Theo’s mom sleeps in the kitchen and he and his sister share the bedroom.

Theo's parents are divorced. His dad visits sometimes and tries to bring food to help out. Theo’s mom tries to make some money sewing traditional clothing in the summer when there are tourists. She receives government assistance but it doesn’t even cover the utilities; her siblings try to help with money for food and firewood, and hand-me-down clothes for Theo and his sister.

Theo's sister, Leona, is also in the Corner Stone program.

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.