Food plays an important part in culture, a fact we forget until we travel to a place whose cuisine is different from our own. Preparing ethnic foods is a way to preserve the ties to cultural heritage. Those of us who live in a multicultural city are fortunate to be exposed to a variety of cuisines: French, Italian, Greek, Caribbean, Chinese, Indian, Thai or Lebanese.

Many in North America don't identify with any specific ethnic origin despite the fact that most of us have roots far across the sea, in countries whose daily diet is not necessarily like our own. People whose ancestors hail from the United Kingdom are among those who most often cheat themselves of their cultural heritage, especially if the family has been on this side of the Atlantic for many generations.

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An exploration of food can help close the gap between our lives and the legacy of ancestors who came from the Old Country generations ago. Cooking up a pot of soup or making a batch of bread is a universal act, and yet somehow using an authentic recipe can transport us through time and space to commune with those who have gone before.

With Robbie Burns Day coming up at on January 25th those of Scottish ancestry have an opportunity to learn something of the foods traditional to that country, many of which are still cooked and consumed there today. Experiment with a family friendly Burns Night supper menu, or simply pick one Scottish food and give it a try.

Similarly, St. Patrick's Day presents itself as a chance for those of Irish descent to sample the cuisine of Ireland. Why content yourself with serving green versions of your every day North American dishes, when you could learn something of the foods your ancestors knew and loved? Whether it's a Dublin coddle or a batch of colcannon to serve beside a dish of sausage or corned beef, there are numerous recipes that will lend a touch of Old World charm to your table.

Kyla Matton is a freelance writer and homeschooling mother. Her interests range from the history of food and healing arts, to education and social justice. Like Heinlein, she believes that specialization is for insects.

by Lyn Lomasi

For some, getting a kid to actually eat their food is no easy task. Here, I have compiled a list of links to some of our family's favorite recipes. These are all recipes I have no problems getting the kids to eat - even the pickiest ones. Some also include tips and suggestions for the meals or for dealing with the kids. Enjoy!

Interested in another recipe? Leave a comment on this post and if it's something I prepare, I will share my family-friendly recipe for it and post the link here. I pretty much cook everything (we don't eat out much and I love to cook), so suggest away. It's pretty likely I have my own version of many recipes.

Making mealtimes fun, healthy, and tasty for toddlers

"Let's face it. When a toddler is hungry, there is not much time to prepare a meal before the crankiness starts. The meals must also be good or they'll wind up smashed into the floor, table, or high chair..."

Recipes for large families: Mama's Spicy Meatloaf

"This isn't your ordinary meatloaf recipe. It's a combination of my mom's meatloaf recipe and my own added adaptations. Some meatloaf recipes turn out dry or lacking in flavor. Not this one."

5 yummy oatmeal cookie recipes

"Oatmeal cookies have always been one of our family's favorites. Because of that, I have experimented with a variety of ways to enjoy them."

Suffering from a recent heart attack or heart condition?: Guide to heart-healthy recipes

"Below you will find suggestions and recipes for healthy meals, drinks, and snacks that can be enjoyed by those suffering heart attacks or similar conditions related to the heart. These are also really tasty, so kids will love sharing them with parents."

Healthy snacks that kids love

"Most children cringe when they hear the words, "Eat it. It's good for you." I've got some recipes that will change your children's thoughts of what healthy means."

Mama's spicy guacamole dip

Surprisingly, many kids like spicy foods. If yours don't, just substitute the spicy stuff for milder versions. It's still just as tasty.

Mama's "Everything" Cookies - Recipe and presentation idea

"Here's a batch of cookies everyone is sure to love because everything is in it, which means there is something for everyone. This recipe has been a staple of mine for years."

Christmas cookie and baked goods recipes and traditions

"For many, Christmas is a time for baking and sharing traditions with family and friends. Even those who don't usually bake love to try their hand at Christmas baking."

* Lyn Lomasi is a homeschool mom, expert parenting writer, former nanny, author, & Founder of Write W.A.V.E. Media, which includes sites like LifeSuccessfully.com.

Sometimes family get-togethers need a little spicing up. That's when I make my special guacamole dip. Friends and family have tried for years to get the recipe out of me, but to no avail. Now, I've finally done it. So, here's Mama's Spicy Guacamole Dip.


*Continue reading on Associated Content from Yahoo!>>>

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff

Having trouble getting your kids to eat veggies and fruits or are they picky eaters in general? Do they need to learn a thing or two (or ten) about manners? How about time-saving tips and healthy snack suggestions. Experienced parents have you covered with their helpful advice and tips related to food and kids.

Getting Kids to Eat Their Veggies by Jaipi Sixbear
Kids who eat veggies from a young age are more likely to continue eating them later. Make veggies a part of everyday diet from the time kids first begin eating solid foods. Cooked veggies can be mashed and pureed for the very young and used as finger foods for toddlers. There are many tips and tricks for getting kids to eat their veggies. Here's advice from a seasoned parent.

Tips for Getting Kids to eat More Fruits and Vegetables by Sophia Tesch
Wondering how to get your kids to eat more healthy fruits and vegetables? It may not be as difficult a challenge as once thought with some pre-planning, preparation and presentation you may just witness the miracle of children eating fresh fruits and vegetables like little bunnies with just a few quick and easy tips.

Eat to Feed the Brain: Kids and Adults by Lyn Lomasi
Your brain is an amazing thing. It controls your entire body. That said, we need to be sure we are taking proper care of our brains. The best way to do that is to eat food that enrich the brain's functions.

Four Creative Tricks for Getting Picky eaters to Eat by Heather K. Adams
Have you tried all the tips and tricks out there, and you still can't get your kids to eat what is on their plates? I tried them all and nothing worked for me and my ultra-picky kids. I had to come up with my own tricks for getting my picky eaters to eat.

Making Mealtimes Fun, Healthy, and Tasty for Toddlers by Lyn Lomasi
Let's face it. When a toddler is hungry, there is not much time to prepare a meal before the crankiness starts. The meals must also be good or they'll wind up smashed into the floor, table, or high chair (or even all three).

Kids Table Manners - 5 Basic Answers All Children Should Know and Follow by 2Buzy
Five basic, but many times unfollowed, table manners for kids. From which glass is theirs to passing on food they don't like, kids do better when they are prepared and know what to do.

4 Finger Foods Your Toddler Will Grasp Willingly by Lyn Lomasi
Since toddlers practically live off of finger food, it's important to have a little variety. However, that can sometimes seem impossible for finger foods. They can sometimes get repetitive and boring for your toddler, leading to picky eaters and loss of interest.

Healthy Snacks that Kids Love by Lyn Lomasi
Most children cringe when they hear the words, "Eat it. It's good for you." I've got some recipes that will change your children's thoughts of what healthy means.