About the Project
This website was created as part of a high school project by students in the United States who have cultural ties to Anguilla. Through this project, we explored European foods and how they could inspire the food culture on the island. We researched different types of European cuisine, compared them to our local foods, and shared what we learned. This project has given us a deeper appreciation for both European and Anguillian dishes, as well as the rich culinary traditions that connect us to our roots.
Research Highlights
French Cuisine
French food, like croissants and crème brûlée, is known for its elegance and flavour. We studied how French baking techniques are used in desserts and bread-making.
Italian Cuisine
Italian food is all about fresh ingredients, like pasta and pizza. We noticed how Italian cooking could easily blend with Anguilla’s love for fresh seafood and herbs.
Spanish Cuisine
Tapas, paella, and churros were some of the dishes we studied. These small, flavour-packed dishes gave us ideas for using our own tropical ingredients in creative ways.
German Cuisine
German foods like pretzels and sausages are hearty and filling. We learned about their history and how they could add variety to any menu.
Greek Cuisine
We looked at dishes like moussaka and tzatziki. Greek food reminded us of how Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, cheese, and vegetables create healthy, delicious meals.
Belgian Cuisine
Belgium is famous for its waffles and chocolates. These treats inspired us to think about how dessert can be a special part of any meal.
Ukrainian Cuisine
Ukrainian cuisine is hearty and comforting, with dishes like borscht and varenyky (dumplings). These foods reflect a connection to fresh, seasonal ingredients and strong community traditions.
Portuguese Cuisine
Portuguese food features seafood, like bacalhau (salted cod), and bold flavors. Desserts like pastel de nata are famous for their sweetness and flakiness.
The Netherlands Cuisine
Foods like stroopwafels, Dutch cheese, and hearty stews represent the Netherlands’ love of comfort foods and local dairy products.
Cuisine from the Balkans
The Balkans offer a mix of dishes like ćevapi, burek, and ajvar. These foods show the region’s blend of cultural influences and fresh ingredients.
European Turkey
European Turkey cuisine includes dishes like kebabs and baklava, showcasing rich spices, tender meats, and sweet desserts with Ottoman influences.
Czech Cuisine
Czech food includes hearty meals like goulash and knedlíky (dumplings), often paired with world-famous Czech beer.
Hungarian Cuisine
Hungarian dishes like goulash and chicken paprikash feature paprika and a mix of flavors, representing the country’s culinary traditions.
Scandinavian Cuisine
Countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark focus on fresh seafood, open sandwiches, and sweet treats like cinnamon rolls and marzipan desserts.
British Cuisine
Classic dishes like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and shepherd’s pie are staples of British food, often enjoyed with tea and puddings.
Local Foods of Anguilla
Although our project focused on European cuisine, we love and are proud of Anguilla’s local foods. Our island is known for its amazing flavours, fresh ingredients, and rich food traditions. Here are some of the dishes we enjoy most:
- Johnny Cakes: These golden-fried cakes are soft, warm, and perfect on their own or with other dishes.
- Saltfish and Dumplings: This hearty dish combines stewed saltfish with fluffy dumplings for a satisfying meal.
- Grilled Lobster: Lobster from our waters, seasoned and grilled, is a true delicacy.
- Pigeon Peas and Rice: A classic side dish that is tasty and goes with just about everything.
- Conch Soup: A traditional dish that highlights the fresh seafood of Anguilla with a touch of spice.
These dishes are an important part of who we are, and they remind us why food is such a big part of Anguillian culture.
Acknowledgements
We want to thank everyone who helped and supported us in creating this project. From the teachers who guided us to those who encouraged us to try new things, we appreciate the support we received. This experience has been unforgettable.