Hi friend,
How are things with you?
Today, I’d like to talk about a significant topic, which is the rising immigration of many Nigerians to other countries. However, I want to approach it from a different angle – focusing on the food perspective and how to adapt to a new environment with a different food lifestyle.
Food stands as a remarkable thread that weaves people together, regardless of distance or borders. From the far corners of the world, we get to see trends go viral via the internet, connect with diverse cultures, and enjoy the unique flavours that define each community.
But what happens when we actually venture beyond our borders and find ourselves in a land where the cuisine is as distant as the miles that separate us? With the Japa Syndrome, it is important to learn how to thrive in a world with a different food culture. Experiencing a different food culture can be both exhilarating, confusing and challenging, even for the most adventurous people. For instance, the love of spicy food can present a serious challenge for Nigerian immigrants or tourists when they encounter a new environment with different food styles and flavours.
So, whether you’re a tourist or an immigrant settling in a new community, the question lingers – how can we embrace and enjoy these diverse food experiences? Allow me to share some thoughts on navigating this journey.
- Embrace Your Uniqueness: Acknowledge the beauty of your own food culture and background. Avoid the temptation to compare yourself or your type of food with others. Remember, your uniqueness is what contributes to the completeness of our world.
- Respect the Richness of Others: Just as you cherish your food culture, learn to respect and appreciate the uniqueness of others. By embracing their flavours, you open your heart to a world of diverse food.
- Embrace Exploration: Be open-minded and willing to explore new food. A dish might surprise you with its familiarity or serve as a delightful discovery. For instance, after tasting squash, it reminded me of sweet potatoes. This is something I will definitely try again or include in my personal menu. Also, do not feel bad or guilty if you do not like a particular food. Food, like art, comes in many variations, and preparation can impact flavours greatly. If you can, give it another chance from a different source or preparation style.
- Find Your Comfort Zone: Seek out local restaurants that offer familiar dishes. There might be African food stores, asian restaurants/stores around you. Besides, today’s connected world allows us to access flavours from home through the internet and global delivery options.
- Prepare your own food: Personally, I think this is the best way to thrive in another man’s land. Nothing connects you to your heritage better than preparing your own meals. Also, healthy eating and living begins with preparing your own meal. In this manner, you have full control over the ingredients that go into the food.
Adapting to a new environment with a distinct food culture poses challenges since our preferences are deeply rooted in what we’re accustomed to. If it took us years to get used to our own food, it will undoubtedly take time to embrace and adjust to other food cultures. All we need is time and an open heart!