Country of the Month: Puerto Rico!

Latin America has riches and wonders that are yet to be discovered by tourists. That is the case in every country, including Puerto Rico! Boricuas, as the locals refer to themselves, get to live in a world where the bright sun and blue skies warm their skin and souls. Where wholesome delicacies replenish their energy and make them ask for seconds. And they get to live in a place where the beat of the drum harmonizes with vibrant songbirds. Doesn’t this sound like a place worth discovering and truly immersing yourself in?

That is why we are learning about Puerto Rico, meaning rich port, with our little ones this month! Learn more by reading our blog post.

History

The Arawak Indians, or Taino people, were the dominant tribe in the Caribbean before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1493. However, their predominantly peaceful and agricultural-based lifestyle faced some challenges. They occasionally clashed against nearby tribes who sought to take over their lands. But with new diseases brought by the Spaniards, the indigenous population rapidly declined and surrendered to the Spanish. The depleted and weak population left a gap in the workforce required to maintain the plantations. Thus, enslaved people were brought in from nearby islands and Africa. 

Over the years, these independent groups learned from each other and merged their different traditions, which created the base for the Puerto Rican culture we know today. Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1917 following the Spanish surrender from the Spanish-American War. Whether Puerto Rico should be independent of the U.S. or be considered a state is still widely debated. 

Food

Ask any Boricua what their favorite dish is, and they will surely go into great detail about how flavourful it is. They might also invite you to try it! We recommend you take them up on the invitation because Puerto Rican food is packed with complex flavors thanks to the different cultures that merged together. In their dishes, you will find Taino, African, and European influences. Try a new recipe this weekend!

Mofongo

This is the most popular comfort food in Puerto Rico! Mofongo is made by mashing up deep-fried plantains, garlic, and pork! It can be served as a side or main dish when stuffed with some meat. 

Tostones

These are the traditional plantain chips! Tostones are made by deep-frying plantains, mashing them up, and then deep-frying again to create a crunchy chip. Enjoy these as an afternoon snack. 

Lechón Asado

Lechón, or Pork, is a delicacy and much-loved meat in Puerto Rico. To prepare this complex dish, the entire pork is marinated and roasted over coal for several hours! We recommend trying this dish at a restaurant, but if you can make it at home, please let us know how it went!

Pastelillos de Guayaba

These are a must-try and popular dessert made by our Maple Grove Center Director, Sorimar! These small treats are buttery and soft and showcase the sweet guava paste. The effort of making these will pay off as soon as you bite into one of the squares. 

To discover these and many other traditional recipes, click here! 

Bioluminescent Bays

If you are looking for something extraordinary, this is definitely one of the most unique experiences you will have! Puerto Rico is home to three popular bioluminescent bays: Cabezas de San Juan, La Parguera, and Mosquito Bay. This natural phenomenon occurs when tiny organisms bloom, form big colonies, and are then excited by movement. Watch this video to see the wonder in action!

El Morro

El Morro is a destination that is enjoyed by both locals and tourists! The historic landmark served as an important military outpost for Spain and then the United States during both world wars. In 1961, El Morro was deserted by the military to become a museum and UNESCO world heritage site! 

Staff

Lastly, we would love to highlight and thank our Puerto Rican staff! These wonderful individuals have shaped Casa in many ways and always give their heart to this work. Thank you so much for being part of our community and letting us learn more about your culture!

Sorimar: Center Director

Yajaira: Lead Teacher

Yaira: Assistant Teacher

Luna: Lead Teacher

Marangely: Assistant Teacher

Alejandra: Substitute Staff

Mireilys: Lead Teacher

Maria:  Lead Teacher

Celimar: Assistant Teacher

Natalie: Lead Teacher

Nelly: Cook Staff

Viviana: Cook Staff

Iris: Center Director

Keyshla: Director of Operations

Yashira:  Admin Assistant

Wendy: Substitute Staff

Yaritza: Substitute Staff