Posted on Wednesday July 13th
Eating becomes much more tasty once we know the stories behind our food. Because after all, all food has a story, and every ingredient has an attachment to where it came from. Stories trigger ideas and memories relating to family, global food production, history, cultural traditions—and so much more. Find below some of the backstories to some of the food you’ll find at ArtBeat this Saturday (Davis Square, 11-6pm). Don’t worry, favorites like Redbones BBQ will be there, but here are a few global selections, too!
Food you’ll find at ArtBeat this Saturday!
Dish: Arepas
Origin: Northern countries in South America, including Venezuela
Main Ingredients: corn flour (maize meal or flour) with various fillings
Curious Fact: The “Reina Pepiada” arepa—a delicious medley with chicken, black beans and avocado—was introduced in honor of the Venezuelan Miss World 1955 Susana Dujim. To this we say “gracias Susana!!”
Where to find it at ArtBeat: Carolicious, Nibble Entrepreneurs
Dish: Bao
Origin: Taiwan
Main Ingredients: Steamed bread, stewed meat, condiments
Curious fact: Bao, also referred to as “Taiwanese hamburgers”, are stuffed with a variety of savory fillings: fried chicken, fish, eggs, and stewed beef. Bao has long been a popular street food in Taiwan but these days, they are one of the trendiest street snacks world over — from London to Melbourne, to Davis Square!
Where to find it at ArtBeat: Bao Nation, Hot Asian Buns & Dumplings
Dish: Crêpe
Origin: France
Main Ingredients: buckwheat flour, milk, eggs
Curious Fact: Oui oui, bien sûr, we all know crêpes. But did you know that in France, crêpes are traditionally served on Candlemas (La Chandeleur), the 2 of February. Historically the belief was that if you could catch the crêpe with a frying pan after tossing it in the air with your right hand, while holding a gold coin in your left hand, you would become rich that year.
Where to find it at ArtBeat: Mr. Crêpe
You will find also authentic Thai cuisine, South Asian Street Food, Indian Food, Colombian empanadas, and Greek Food
ArtBeat is one of the area’s largest and most innovative arts festivals, with over a dozen bands, dance troupes, 75 craft vendors, food, and all-age activities. On Friday night we have music and interactive performances, then on Saturday we shut down Davis Square for the craft vendors, two stages of music, dance in the Somerville Theater, and a host of great interactive performances. Check out the ArtBeat Facebook event page for all the festival updates!
