Growing up in a Puerto Rican family, I was immersed in stories of our heritage, history,
and a strong sense of community. One of the most meaningful moments of my life was learning to
cook with my mom. In Puerto Rican culture, food is more than sustenance—it’s a symbol of
love, tradition, and connection. My mom, with her patient hands and warm smile, taught me how
to prepare traditional dishes like arroz con gandules and pastellios. These recipes weren’t just
meals: they were legacies passed down through generations, each ingredient telling a story of
struggle, joy, and resilience.


     I remember sitting at the kitchen table at age 12, the smell of sofrito filling the air. My
Mom shared stories of her childhood in Puerto Rico and moving to Connecticut, where her
family made do with little but always found ways to bring joy to the table. Cooking with her
became more than learning recipes; it was about honoring our roots, celebrating resilience, and
understanding the importance of patience and attention to detail in life.


     As I grew older, I realized how food, especially in Puerto Rican communities, brings
people together. It fosters connection, creates space for storytelling, and strengthens bonds.
Now, as I cook these dishes for my own family, I’m not just preparing food—I’m sharing a piece
of my story and heritage.
     
     Our personal stories are woven into a collective history, like ingredients in a dish. "Your
Story, Our Story" reminds us that every tradition and connection shapes who we are, both as
individuals and as part of a larger community.


 

– Zyare

Relationship:  unknown unknown