Ethnic Food Research Paper

911 Words2 Pages

A Piece of Culture

Food is an important part of who we are and where we have come from. In many cases it represents important things like culture, religion, history, and tradition. In addition for immigrants it provides comfort and a sense of closeness to where they came from. Moving to a different country where the way of life is completely different, it's nice to have something you're used to. In the book Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri, ethnic food is often displayed as one of the most important things in the lives of the immigrants. Some think that food has one job, to taste good, but it really consists of so much more. Food holds memories that no paper or pen can capture, the happiness, the smell, and the stories told …show more content…

For Muslims, the absence of food in daylight hours is an important part of religion. Itar occurs right after sunset and is a small meal or snack that's purpose is to break the day's fasting. The Sahur is the light meal or dinner eaten as the main course, it is very important not to overeat during this meal. Many become sick or overeat and end up with other problems during Ramadan, but it is such an important religious holiday that all good Muslims must participate. By taking away food during the day, it makes the participants of Ramadan appreciate their meals more when they do come. Especially with our new president, and all the barriers, Muslims that do immigrate to the United States will be wanting all the comfort and routine possible. Things like Fasting for Ramadan and breaking the fast in a way they're used to is necessary for their religion, mental health, and comfort. The transition to the United States while being Muslim has many hardships that can do a number on any immigrants confidence and mental wellbeing. A night of Ramadan can help make these immigrants feel at home and help with any anxiety they are experiencing. If an immigrant from America were to go to a place like Saudi Arabia, they would want to eat food they're used to during the stressful transition. In addition to that they would probably want to stay in touch with their roots by celebrating our important Holidays like Thanksgiving. Each and everyday of the month of Ramadan Muslims go through a struggle during the daytime of fasting and then they enjoy the food they earned by

Open Document