My mother was born and raised in Varaždin, Croatia. At 12, she faced a profound loss when her father died, leaving my grandmother, who suffered from diabetes, as the sole provider, working long hours in a clothing factory. In 1985, seeking a better life, my mother and grandmother immigrated to New York City. Without finishing school and with limited English, adjusting to a new country was incredibly challenging. However, my grandmother found solace in baking and brought along a cherished Croatian recipe book filled with traditional pastries, including Orehnjača—a special nut roll. My grandmother's specific recipe was a tradition handed down by my great-grandmother, who added a unique touch by adding raw honey, a hint of lemon juice, and dried figs. Later In the 90s, my mother met my father, a Jordanian immigrant who also sacrificed his education to work and provide for his family. Despite their cultural and religious differences—my mother Catholic and my father Muslim—they found common ground and fell in love. Orehnjača became a cherished family tradition, baked for celebrations like Christmas, Easter, and Eid, representing our shared values and traditions. As time went on, we adjusted the recipe by lowering the sugar content as my grandmother’s diabetes worsened, honoring tradition while prioritizing health. I am incredibly fortunate that my grandmother is still with us, continuing to make these pastries and passing down her culinary wisdom to my mother. Orehnjača reminds me of the uniting of cultures and the sacrifices my parents made to give me a better life.

– D

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant