A Taste of Diversity

Florida celebrates cultural diversity in many ways and at many times throughout the year. One recent celebration was held at DEP’s Southeast District (SED) and attendees got a sampling of foods from ‘around-the-world.’

 At the SED’s Annual Cultural Diversity Day earlier in the month, employees brought in tasty dishes representing traditional favorites originated in their native countries. The celebration not only included new recipes to try, but artifacts and musical genres representing many countries as well including Indian, Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia and Reggae.

“The extent of cultural diversity at the Southeast District gives us the opportunity to consider different understandings, ideas and approaches, and makes us a stronger and more effective organization,” said SED Director Jack Long.

Some of the flavorful dishes sampled included the traditional spinach pie dish called, Pascualina from Uruguay, Puerto Rican red beans and rice, Columbian empanadas, Mediterranean hummus, Jamaican beef patties, Italian Chicken Pizziola and Irish Shepherd’s Pie.

The Caribbean Islands were also in full force with national treats such as the Haitian stew, Griot -- an exciting combination of fried pork, onions and peppers, and fried plantains. Staffers dove into the Cuban chicken fricassee, Cuban style Tamales and savored the chicken curry inspired by the Caribbean and South American flavors of Guyana.

Of course traditional backyard favorites were among the hits with the likes of collard greens and corn casseroles, apple pies and Moon Pies® perfectly sided with RC Cola®, and Southern style BBQ and potato rolls along with Brooklyn inspired pot roast.

As staff was introduced to new and exotic foods, one very simple dish caught a lot of attention. It was called, ‘Industrial Strength Applesauce’ made by Lisa Self in the Water Facilities Program and it’s worth emailing her for the recipe!

At last count, DEP has employees from more than 35 different countries who join in the effort to protect Florida’s environment.