Regardless of culture or religion, food plays a central role in the way we all celebrate special occasions and holidays. Within our own culture, food can unite us, making us feel connected to one other. Grounded in tradition, these unique desserts are always a welcome sight, as they're usually the perfect ending to a delicious meal or a reminder that we should always be celebrating the sweetest moments in life.
Turkey: Asure (aka Noah's Pudding)
Asure or Noah's Pudding is a delightful Turkish dessert that was traditionally made to commemorate the ark's landing and to celebrate the bond between families, friends and neighbors without regard to religion or belief systems, but as an offering of peace and love. As the legend goes, Noah and his animals were about to run out of food on the ark when he mixed together whatever ingredients were left and cooked them all together to feed his people. It's usually enjoyed during the first significant holiday of the Muslim year, Muharrem, which takes place on the tenth day of the first lunar month. On this day in history, Noah and his family were able to leave the ark after the floodwaters receded. This pudding is basically a mixture of grains, fruits and nuts.
Philippines: Bibingka
Typically enjoyed during the Christmas season, bibingka is a rice cake from the Philippines that's made with rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, eggs and baking powder. Traditionally, banana leaves line a special clay pot where the mixture is poured into. Then, more banana leaves are added on top and underneath to cover it as it's heated on hot coals. The soft, spongy cake's toppings include butter, sugar, cheese or coconut. The dessert's texture can either be spongy or sticky. During the holiday season, bibingkas are usually enjoyed right after Midnight Mass where they are sold outside of churches.
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