Yam Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY NIGERIA SA The yam is sometimes called the king of crops in Nigeria. This African country is the world’s largest producer of yams. Not only do Nigerians value the versatility of yams, but they also hold an annual celebration at the end of the farming season that honors this tuber. There are dances, parades, costumes, and many yam dishes to eat. The origin of yams reflect religious beliefs shared among many. One common story is that yams were given by the supreme being or god of various Nigerian subcultures. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1 small yam, peeled and cubed 2 cups chopped leek 1/2 orange, juiced 1 tablespoon butter 1/3 cup pecans 1/4 cup fresh thyme 1/4 cup olive oil Directions In a large pan over medium heat, combine yam, leek, orange juice, and butter. Cover and let cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Combine yam mixture with the remaining ingredients in a food processor. Blend until a smooth paste forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the pecans until a fine crumb forms. Add the cooked yam mixture, and mash until smooth. Mix in the thyme and olive oil. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Plantain Bread The plantain, or the starchier sister of the banana, is a common ingredient in Nigerian cuisine. It is prepared as chips, blended into pudding, fried, and mashed. These various methods developed and have been refined since plantains were grown in eastern Africa as early as 3000 B.C. Peanut Stew Peanut stew, which is also called groundnut soup or maafe , is a soup native to Nigeria and popular throughout West Africa. Peanuts reached Africa during the 16th century, and the people of Nigeria quickly adopted the new food into their culinary traditions.

Carrot Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY INDIA SA NF Carrot farming is an important part of the economy in India. And they’re not all orange. In the 10th century, carrots in India were actually purple. The root vegetable not only varies in color, but also in its use. Some Indian dishes use carrots with rice, and others with salads or desserts. Orange carrots may have originated in Holland during the 16th century when various colors of carrots were hybridized together to produce the orange version we know well today. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup sesame seeds 2 cups carrots (cut to 1-inch pieces, boiled, drained, and completely cooled) 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon curry powder 3 tablespoons vegetable oil Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the sesame seeds until a fine crumb forms. Add the carrots and ginger, and mash until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Ramen Salad In India, a popular snack is Maggi instant noodles. Top Ramen is another brand of instant noodles in India. This is interesting when you look at the history of cooking in India where every meal was made from scratch. Instant food was something new to Indian culture. Coconut Barfi Barfi is a no-bake, milk-based confectionery in India. Its name comes from the Persian word barf, which means snow. Barfi comes in many shapes and flavors, but the most classic of all is coconut.

Eggplant Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY NEW ZEALAND SA DF In New Zealand and other English-speaking nations, eggplant is also known as aubergine. In the 18th century, Europeans named this oblong purple vegetable eggplant because it grew in hues of yellow and white, and it was the size of a goose egg. Eggplant is believed to have originated in India, where it stills grows wild. As international trade routes opened, the vegetable was introduced to Europe and other parts of the world. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled raw cashews 3 cups cubed eggplant, cooked in 1 tablespoon olive oil for 10 minutes 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives 1/4 cup fresh sage 2 tablespoons olive oil Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the cashews until a fine crumb forms. Add the eggplant and olives, and mash until smooth. Mix in the sage and olive oil. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Afghan Biscuits Afghan biscuits, made in New Zealand, are bite-sized, leavening-free cookies traditionally made with cornflakes and cocoa powder, topped with icing, and garnished with a half of a nut. There are other meanings for the word Afghan, too, including a person from Afghanistan and a knitted blanket. Breakfast Sausages In New Zealand, sausage sizzles are a popular community event where sausages are grilled or barbecued and then served in sliced bread or a hot dog roll. The event can be free or a fundraiser for a local community organization, like public schools.

Savory pesto recipes combine vibrant flavors using a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. Savory Pesto Recipes Asparagus Pesto View More Broccoli Pesto View More Caper Pesto View More Carrot Pesto View More SA NF SA SA NF SA Cassava Pesto View More Celery Pesto View More Collard Greens Pesto View More Corn Pesto View More SA DF SA DF SA DF NF SA Daikon Pesto View More Eggplant Pesto View More Endive Pesto View More Green Bean Pesto View More DF NF SA SA SA SA DF Lemongrass Pesto View More Macadamia Pesto View More Maple Syrup Pesto View More Mushroom & Chia Pesto View More SA DF SA SA DF NF SA Okra Pesto View More Olive Pesto View More Onion Pesto View More Parsley Pesto View More SA NF DF NF SA SA DF SA Pecan Pesto View More Pickle Pesto View More Pumpkin Pesto View More Red Cabbage Pesto View More SA SA DF SA DF NF SA Rhubarb Pesto View More Rutabaga Pesto View More Spices Pesto View More Spinach Pesto View More SA DF DF NF SA DF SA NF SA Swiss Chard Pesto View More Yam Pesto View More Zucchini Pesto View More SA SA SA

Maple Syrup Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY CANADA SA DF The maple leaf is almost synonymous with Canada, from its image and name to the byproduct of its tree. In terms of the maple leaf image, Canada’s flag shows it big, red, and central. The maple leaf image was also used in 1868 on the coat of arms of both Quebec and Ontario. In terms of the name, “The Maple Leaf Forever” is the title of a Canadian song that became English-speaking Canada’s unofficial anthem. And last but not least, Canada produces about three-quarters of the world’s pure maple syrup. Maple syrup production began in Canada when indigenous people taught European settlers techniques to harvest sap during the 18th century. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 3/4 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled pecans 2 cups peeled and cut raw acorn squash 1/4 cup 100% pure maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon vanilla Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the pecans until a fine crumb forms. Add the acorn squash and mash until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Bacon Monkey Bread In Canada, there’s no such thing as Canadian bacon. The term is used because when there was a shortage of pork in the United Kingdom during the 19th century, pork was imported from Canada. Canadian bacon is made from the lean eye of the loin while other bacon comes from the pig's belly. Rum Milkshake One of Canada’s most popular alcoholic drinks pairs rum and maple syrup with mulled wine. This drink, called Caribou, is often served at Quebec’s Winter Carnival. Not too far away, Nova Scotia is considered rum country. Distilling rum actually preceded building ships in this maritime province.

Lemon Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY MYANMAR SW Lemons are thought to have originated in Burma, which is known as Myanmar today. They were found growing wild and appeared to be a cross between bitter orange and citron. In the 2nd century, the citrus fruit made its way to Europe, Africa, and other Asian nations. When lemons reached Rome, Italy, they were considered quite rare. The wealthy used them for decoration as well as medicine for curing ailments such as nausea and sea sickness. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 1/4 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled pistachios 1 cup fresh blackberries 1/2 medium lemon, ends removed and cut in half 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese 2 tablespoons honey Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the pistachios until a fine crumb forms. Add the blackberries, lemon, and coconut. Mash until fairly smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Bamboo Shoots Salad Shrimp and bamboo shoots are key foods in Myanmar’s economy and culture. Shrimp farming is an important industry along the country’s more than 1,800 miles of coastline. Meanwhile, bamboo shoots are popular among Myanmar’s markets. Tapioca Pudding In Myanmar, moh let saung is a dessert similar to tapioca pudding. It’s made with coconut milk and sago. Sago is a starch that comes from palm trees, and sometimes tapioca is used in its place as it’s another form of starch—starch from cassava.

Pecan Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY THE MIDWEST UNITED STATES SA Butternut squash and pecans are both native to North America. Pecans trace their origins to the state of Oklahoma. In fact, it's recorded that Thomas Jefferson gave George Washington pecan trees from the Midwest at his home in Virginia. In addition to their roots being traced to the United States, certain states account for the production of nearly half of the world’s pecans. These states include Georgia, New Mexico, and Texas. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled pecans 2 cups cooked butternut squash (cubed) 1/3 cup fresh sage 1/3 cup gorgonzola cheese 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons olive oil Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the pecans until a fine crumb forms. Add the butternut squash and sage, and mash until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Kale Salad Kale has become a popular superfood across the United States, and that popularity has skyrocketed in the Midwest. What has already been and still remains popular in the Midwest is cornbread, which can be turned into slightly sweet and crunchy croutons. Crispy Gnocchi Italian immigrants tend to populate urban America, including Midwestern cities like Chicago and Cleveland. In the Midwest, a popular cooking technique is frying. This ranges from fried chicken and cheese curds to Italian gnocchi .

Olive Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY EGYPT SA NF Since 2500 B.C., olives have been cultivated in the Mediterranean. Their early history occurs in Egypt and then travels north across the Mediterranean Sea to Italy. Centuries later, olives reached the New World and now are grown as far away from their origins as Asia and Australia. Olives in ancient Egypt extended beyond food. Olive branches made into ornaments and crowns were found in the tomb of King Tut, a famous ancient Egyptian pharaoh. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 cup Ingredients 1 1/2 cups pitted olives 2 tablespoons chopped shallot 3 ounces feta cheese 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, mash the olives and shallot until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Mediterranean Salad In Egypt, meze is the term that encompasses starters and salads served with bread prior to the main meal. One such salad is called salata baladi . It’s made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and fresh flavorings. Mac 'N Cheese Some believe that cheese originated in the Middle East since jars dating to the First Dynasty of Egypt were found containing traces of it. While macaroni and cheese is likely from Europe, pasta, often in the form of elbow noodles, is a main ingredient in what some consider Egypt’s national dish, kushari .

Rutabaga Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY SWEDEN SA DF NF Rutabaga comes from the Swedish dialect and means short root. A cross between turnip and cabbage, this root vegetable is commonly called swede because it was first raised during the late Middle Ages in this Scandinavian nation, where citizens are also referred to as swedes. Another name for rutabaga is Swedish turnip, indicating not only the root’s origin but also that Swedish people are some of the only frequent eaters of rutabaga. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 2 cups Ingredients 2 cups cubed rutabaga, cooked in 1 tablespoon olive oil for 15 minutes 1 medium golden delicious apple, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 cup water Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, mash the rutabaga, apple, and rosemary until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Sweet Buns Kanelbullar , a popular bakery item in Sweden, are cinnamon buns made with a cardamom dough, orange flavoring, and crunchy sugar. They’re not usually overly sweet despite their English name. Swedish Tuna Balls Smörgåsbord is a Swedish culinary tradition that includes köttbullar . These Swedish meatballs are made with ground meat and herbs, but swedes also eat fish balls called fiskbullar . With a coastline about 2,000 miles long, fish and the process of preserving fish are traditions in Swedish culture.

Banana Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY UGANDA DF NF SW Bananas are a staple in Uganda. From green bananas called matooke to fermented banana wine, Ugandans not only consume the most bananas per person—500 pounds per person per year—but this African country is also the world’s largest banana producer. While production and consumption are very high, Ugandan people also don’t waste any part of the banana plant. They use banana leaves to make roofs and banana fibers to make clothing and handicrafts. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 3/4 cups Ingredients 1 tablespoon sesame seeds 1 1/2 cups peeled ripe banana (or 2 small bananas) 1 1/2 cups quartered strawberries 1/2 cup orange slices 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 tablespoon honey Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the sesame seeds until a fine crumb forms. Add the banana, strawberries, and orange, and mash until fairly smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Spiced Chicken Among some Ugandan people, meat is reserved for special celebrations. It may be chicken or beef, and roasted or grilled. When preparing chicken in Uganda, it’s often flavored with salt and then some pineapple or lemon juice to accelerate the cooking time. Cassava Muffins In addition to banana, other Ugandan staples include cassava, maize, and yam. It’s seen as a reliable and affordable source of carbs. But cassava didn’t arrive in Uganda until the 19th century. Now, the starchy root appears worldwide in several consumable forms, including cassava flour.

Mango Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY THAILAND SW Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is also known as the Big Mango. The nickname is fitting because mango is a native fruit of Thailand. The Asian nation is also the fourth largest producer of mango in the world, and Thai people enjoy it at every meal from salads to a popular dessert called mango sticky rice. Mangoes come in a wide variety in Thailand. In the west, they are most often sweet and yellow, whereas other areas grow a more tart and green mango. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 1/2 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled almonds 1 mango, peeled and seed removed 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger 1/2 cup fresh mint 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the almonds until a fine crumb forms. Add the mango and ginger, and mash until smooth. Mix in the mint and mascarpone cheese. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Red Pepper Salad Salads in Thailand usually consist of a meat, seafood, or noodle base rather than greens or raw vegetables as seen elsewhere around the world. Thai salads fall into one of four categories based on the way the ingredients are prepared: yam , tam , larb , and phla . Yellow Chicken Curry Curry is crucial to Thai kitchens. However, curry’s origins are Indian. Thailand adopted this dish, but incorporated local ingredients. One noticeable difference is that Thai curry is often sweeter than Indian curry.

Pickle Pesto Recipe INSPIRED BY FIJI SA DF In Fiji, pickling is a valuable process when it comes to marriage. Fijian natives pickle their foods in banana leaf-lined pits, which provide a source of food in case of storms. But perhaps more importantly, if well-stocked, these pits help indicate if a man is able to provide for his future wife. The process of pickling foods is believed to have begun as far back as 2400 B.C. The first use of pickling for cucumbers occurred several centuries later in Western Asia. SAVE FOR LATER Makes 1 1/4 cups Ingredients 1/4 cup shelled macadamia nuts 1 3/4 cups chopped whole dill pickles 1 cup chopped fresh curly-leaf parsley 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives 1 teaspoon dill pickle juice 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard seed Directions Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms. If using a mortar and pestle, crush the macadamia nuts until a fine crumb forms. Add the pickles, parsley, and chives, and mash until fairly smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms. Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months. Uses Bloody Mary Tomato juice is a key ingredient when making Bloody Mary. Tomatoes are also one of the most common vegetables grown in Fiji. In fact, they can grow year round on these islands. However, Fiji still imports a significant amount of tomatoes and other produce from New Zealand and Australia. Mack and Cheese Fiji is a nation made up of about 330 different islands. As a South Pacific archipelago, fish is readily available to Fijian people. One type of fish common in Fiji is mackerel, which is often sold as a canned food item in most supermarkets.