When most of us think of rice fields, we vision expanses of flooded rice patties, Asian peasants with traditional conical hats, knee-deep in muddy waters, planting rows upon rows of seedlings...There is a movement a-field that is impacting how rice is grown around the world for the better. S.R.I. (system of rice intensification) is a sustainable method of growing rice that ... Continue Reading
Chinese Lunar New Year Traditions: Gathering ‘Round the Stove
Chinese Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in China and is celebrated in several other Asian countries like Vietnam.Festive traditions and beliefs include:Lunar New Year's Eve and New Year's Day feature family rituals like a night of unity, reunion, harmony, and paying respects to ancestors. Kind of like Thanksgiving, Christmas and Rockin' Eve all rolled into ... Continue Reading
Add an Asian Fusion Twist to Your Holiday Table!
From our table to yours, a few delicious ways to add a little Chinese Southern Belle fusion twist to your holiday dishes, from appetizers to entrees:Wasabi Butter Mashed Potatoes - YUM! Mix a squirt (2 tbs) of wasabi paste or powder into your mashed potatoes. Color your stuffing: mix in 1/2 cup of Wild Sweet Black Chinese Rice or Red Vietnamese Rice Glazed, Gingered ... Continue Reading
Unsung Heroes, Memorial Day: Veterans of Color
In honor of Asian Pacific Heritage Month and Memorial Day, many APA veterans are still unsung heroes in their 60's, even 90's. According to a recent U.S. Census release, there are 258,183 Asian military veterans, with about one in three veterans was 65 years and older (and this number does not include many multiracial Asian veterans).The animated short film AN AMERICAN HERO: ... Continue Reading
Food For Thought: MSG and Chinese Restaurant Food Syndrome
Next to ginger and soy sauce, MSG is probably the most common "spice" associated with Chinese restaurants, especially popular Chinese takeout food. While some people may be allergic and others experience distinct negative physical reactions (like Dad), there are some who don't seem to be affected by MSG (or don't know they are). Companies that use it claim that there is "no ... Continue Reading