The special dish I have chosen that brings me comfort is my grandma's Bún riêu. It is a traditional Vietnamese rice noodle soup made with a savory tomato-based broth, filled with vermicelli noodles, and typically topped with shrimp/crab paste floating like clouds. But you can't forget loading it with herbs and vegetables in a Vietnamese soup bowl. I grew up eating it often with my family, and especially on special occasions, Bún riêu is enjoyed by many family members. In Vietnamese culture, Bún riêu is more than just a simple dish it is a symbol of celebration, family, and comfort to many individuals. From hearing my grandma's plan of cooking it tomorrow to smelling the scent that always makes me feel hungry and excited. Even though I am Asian-American, my family, mom, dad, and my grandma were from Vietnam and grew up there before they moved to  Seattle. Bún riêu connects me to the Vietnamese side of my identity and the history in Vietnam. Whenever my family and I have it for dinner, it always feels very meaningful. Reminding me of the memories I've made from the few trips to Vietnam with my family, that has brought me to feel more connected with the culture during family gatherings and learning new perspectives.To me, Bún riêu is more than just a dish. It is a pathway to stay connected to my tradition, culture, my family, and generations before me. It represents who I am and reminds me of my family's history and their story before they made their journey to Seattle. That is why it will always hold a special place for me.

– S.D

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant