Cuisine of the Mariana Islands facts for kids
The cuisine of the Mariana Islands is a tasty mix of local traditions and international flavors. People on these islands enjoy many different kinds of food. Most dishes are cooked using coconut oil, which gives them a special tropical taste.
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What People Eat
The food in the Mariana Islands often includes different types of meat. Popular choices are pork and poultry (like chicken). Because the islands are surrounded by the ocean, seafood is also a big part of their diet. You'll find lots of fresh fish and other sea creatures like sea cucumbers.
Local Favorites
The Mariana Islands have some unique dishes that are very popular.
Kelaguen
One famous dish is called kelaguen. It's a special dish from the Chamorro people, who are native to the islands. Kelaguen can be made with chicken, shrimp, fish, or even beef. The meat is marinated, which means it soaks in a mix of lemon juice and fresh coconut. This gives it a fresh, tangy flavor.
Red Rice
Another important local food is red rice. This rice gets its bright red color from a plant called annatto. It's a staple at many meals and celebrations.
Kå'du Fanihi
A traditional soup called kå'du fanihi is also well-known. This soup is made from fruit bat or flying fox. It's a unique part of the local culture and cuisine.
Guyuria Cookies
For a sweet treat, people enjoy Guyuria cookies. These are crispy, fried cookies that are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
International Influences
The food in the Mariana Islands has been influenced by many different cultures. This is because of the islands' history and their neighbors. You can find flavors from Papua New Guinea, Hawaii, and American cuisine.
The islands also enjoy many dishes from other parts of the world. For example, you might find Korean kimchi, Filipino pancit (a noodle dish), and Spanish empanadas (savory pastries). This mix of flavors makes the cuisine of the Mariana Islands very diverse and exciting.
Tabasco Sauce
Interestingly, Guam, one of the Mariana Islands, is known for using a lot of Tabasco sauce. In fact, it has one of the highest uses of Tabasco sauce per person in the world!
