Cooking up a storm during Harmony Week

This year Harmony Week will be celebrated from March 17^th to 23^rd, and it’s a great opportunity to learn about the many cultures across Aruma. The theme this year is “everyone belongs” and there is actually a special event called “A taste of Harmony” happening this year.

It’s no surprise that many of our participants enjoy sharing and trying new foods, and it’s a great way for our frontline staff to introduce their cultures to participants.

We’re throwing it back with a story and recipe that our Reservoir SIL team from Victoria shared last year…

Residents Cathleen and Frances, put their culinary skills to the test by making momos (traditional Nepalese dumplings) for the first time.

They began by harvesting spring onions and coriander from their garden, which Cathy had been watering since they were planted.

“Both Cathy and Frances enjoy harvesting the spring onions and coriander. Using homegrown ingredients to prepare the momos was a wonderful experience for them,” says previous Acting House Manager, Smita Sharma.

With a little guidance from the team, Cathy and Frances quickly mastered the art of filling and shaping the momos. Amid jokes and lively chatter, they packed each one with care, and their hard work paid off.

“They said the momos tasted good and they’d love to make them again in the future,” says Smita.

For Cathy, Frances, and their housemates, having a culturally diverse team has given them many opportunities to try new cuisines, celebrate festivals, embrace unique clothing traditions, and learn about other cultures.

Moments like these illustrate how cultural diversity enriches our lives. Each experience, whether big or small, fosters a sense of togetherness and connection, and helps to create a place where everyone feels like they belong.

Feeling inspired to create momos with your participants? Here is Smita’s recipe:

Ingredients:

• Mince Chicken
• Mince onion
• Spring onion
• Salt (as per taste)
• Mince garlic
• Butter
• Pepper (if you like spicy)
• Wonton skin wrapper

Method:

1. Mix spices together.
2. Fry mince chicken in butter.
3. Once fried, add the spice mix.
4. Take a small amount of mixture and wrap it in the wonton skin wrapper.
5. Steam dumplings for 15 mins.
6. It’s ready to serve with soya sauce.