This year the Concern Global Gala: Unite to Fight Hunger is all about the power of food. That’s why we’ve partnered with some amazing chefs to stand united to fight global hunger. As a special treat, we will be sharing a few recipes that celebrate the human spirit and the power of food in the countries we operate.
Gabe and Concern staff Ricardo Valcena stop at a local vendor in Haiti (Photo: Crystal Wells)
Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Haiti is home to 11.4 million people. As one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with 1,000 people for every square mile, many Haitians live in rural areas and the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince. While sitting at the intersection between the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates, with multiple fault lines cutting through the island, Haiti has been the center of attention for devastating earthquakes over the years, including the most recent 7.2 magnitude earthquake in August 2021 of which Concern is still responding.
Despite such devastation, Haiti is home to creative minds, beautiful scenery and delicious food. Something we’ve had the privilege of experiencing after working in Haiti for over 25 years. Concern focuses on long-term development programs, earthquake recovery, and rehabilitation efforts. One such program is the small cooking school teaching young women culinary skills in Port-au-Prince.
Haitian food infuses savory spices in their locally grown vegetables, fruit and meat dishes. By visiting the culinary school and cooking with the young women, Chef Gabe Kennedy, Cofounder of Plant People, shares a flavorful recipe to try at home.
Haitian Eggplant
Serving Size: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- ½ onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bouillon cube
- Oil
- 1 small hot pepper
- Salt and pepper
- Hot Sauce
- Cooked rice to serve
Cooking Instructions
Slice and salt the eggplant. Let it sit for 10-20 minutes to remove moisture.
Pat dry and fry in sauté pan in oil over medium heat.
Slice onion, garlic, and pepper and sauté in oil.
Add the bouillon cube and water. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the eggplant and mash it until it forms a purée.
Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Serve with rice and enjoy!
The missing ingredient
Despite a vibrant, flavorful culinary heritage, Haiti remains one of the top ten hungriest countries in the world. With 2.6 million Haitians in need of humanitarian assistance and 46% of the population food insecure, Concern needs your support to deliver life-saving programs to the most vulnerable people in the hardest-to-reach places facing hunger.
