The Boulevard Senior Living Culinary Department to Honor Asian American Pacific Islander Month

May is Asian American Pacific Islander month, or AAPI for short, a time to celebrate the Asian and Pacific Islanders in the United States and their contributions to the history of this country. By recognizing the culture, history, and achievements of Asian American and Pacific Islanders, we can broaden the understanding of their countries and cultures, as well as enhance the appreciation for all that they have given to make this country great.

As is the case with many commemorative months, AAPI originated with Congress. In 1978, Congress passed, and President Jimmy Carter signed into law, a joint resolution declaring a week in May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.” This was later expanded to a month, and in 1992, May was designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.

At The Boulevard Senior Living Wentzville, MO, we will be celebrating by honoring the territory of Guam and the countries of Vietnam and Fiji.

The dishes I am making are Chamorro barbeque ribs representing Guam; Che chou, a Vietnamese banana, coconut and tapioca Dessert with truing Nguyen coffee; and from Fiji, kai vacuole, which are mussels in coconut milk.

As a Culinary Director and someone who is passionate about food and teaching others, I think it is important to broaden residents’ spectrum of foods and flavors, but also to keep residents engaged and wondering what the next new thing is I am going to try. All the dishes I have created for the AAPI Heritage Month are familiar foods with unique cultural flavors that have piqued residents’ curiosity. 

As a culinary director, I feel we should celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society. This month celebrates the unique journey of all AAPI immigrants and citizens in the United States, their unique life experiences, traditions, and cultures. These life experiences, traditions, and cultures often revolved around food and celebrations. I think it is important to keep these experiences going so they are not lost forever on future generations.

We are honored to have the opportunity to celebrate these countries, their contributions, and their foods this month! And we would be even more honored if you would join us. Give us a call to learn more about how you can get a seat at the table this month!