Columbia International College

Canada is home to friendly people, breathtaking scenery and maple syrup. The country is also known for having a delectable array of food that caters to every palette. Being a multicultural mosaic, not everyone has had a chance to sample authentic Canadian cuisine. On June 24, 2010, students joined the ranks of those who have eaten the nation’s delicacies at the Canadian Cuisine Dinner.

Organized by the Student Council and the Student Development Office, students were treated to Canadian fare in the Student Café. This semester’s International Cuisine Dinner was a hit with students and many went for second, third and fourth rounds of the sumptuous feast.

Authentically Canadian

Red and white décor set the stage for an afternoon of fun and great food. Canada’s national colours and the iconic maple leaf could be found in every corner of the decorated Café. Tables were adorned with chocolate loonies (the nickname for a dollar coin), maple candies and other national paraphernalia. The sounds famous Canadian artists such as Drake, Justin Bieber, Celine Dion and Nickleback filled the Café amid exciting chatter from students who attended the dinner.

For the delectable meal Sodexo served up three courses.

Starters:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Tomatoes and cucumbers in a balsamic vinaigrette

Entrees:

• Pasta Provencal
• Poutine (Fries topped with beef gravy and cheese)
• Corn on the cob
• Baked Salmon in a maple, balsamic glaze
• Roast Beef
• Yorkshire Pudding

Dessert:

• Smores (Graham crackers with melted chocolate chips and marshmallows)
• Strawberries
• Ice Cream

“Canadian food is awesome!” said Grade 12 student Jocelyn Chai in between bites.
Chai’s sentiments echoed those of her peers, many of whom had never eaten Canadian food before.

“The dinner was fabulous. I had so much fun. Canada has a lot of great, healthy food,” said Lord Kudolo, another Grade 12 student.

The International Cuisine Series

At Columbia, celebrating diversity is an integral part of student life. The International Cuisine Series runs every semester and allows for intercultural exchange and experiential learning. Each Dinner is unique and features games, music as well as food from various countries and regions. The Canadian Cuisine Dinner was thoroughly enjoyed and students are looking forward the next instalment in the Cuisine Series.