GRANGER High School is diverse, and so are Lancers’ holiday foods. Each culture within the school brings its own special meals, ranging from salty to spicy, sweet to sour. These dishes not only delight taste buds but also hold deep significance, connecting people through traditions, celebrations, and family stories. Each dish reflects a piece of history, love, and the unique ways different cultures celebrate the holidays, uniting everyone through flavor.

Mrs. Jensen says French holiday meals often include seafood such as snails (les escargots), oysters, and goose liver (le foie gras), typically served with savory jams, spreadable cheese, and baguettes. “The best thing about French food is it’s very fresh and very well made,” Mrs. Jensen said. French families also enjoy meat, vegetables, and cheese platters during their celebrations.

Samantha Salea (10), who is Samoan, says traditional dishes like corned beef, taro, and pani popo are staples in her culture. “It’s something we’ve always done, it’s always served,” Salea said. These dishes carry deep meaning and are often shared at family gatherings. “They’re more than food, they’re part of who we are,I love them so much I would never change a thing,” said Salea.

Kissy Rodriguez (11), who is Honduran, says baleadas are always on the table during special occasions. “It’s really common and made fast, basically the most common dish,” Rodriguez said. She explained that these dishes play a key role in bringing her family together. Rodriguez mentioned that her favorite dish is mojarra (fried fish). “It’s the best fish I’ve ever had, and it’s usually served with tajadas (green plantains). I love mojarra, I wouldn’t change it for anything,” she said with a smile. Rodriguez also said, “Food is such a big part of our culture, it’s how we connect and celebrate.”

Thao Ngo (10), who is Vietnamese, says egg rolls are always present at her family gatherings, along with che thai, a popular dessert. Other common dishes include papaya salad and rice paper salad, which she described as slightly spicy but very tasty. Ngo says these meals hold special significance in Vietnamese culture. “It is Vietnamese, and its taste is unique. Although some people don’t enjoy the food because of taste preferences, it’s still super good,” Ngo said.

Although everyone has different food preferences, it’s incredible how many options are available and how much there is to discover. Food opens doors to understanding and connecting with others. Sharing a meal offers a chance to explore new cultures, create memories, and celebrate the love that brings people together. Cultural foods remind the Lancers that no matter where they come from, food unites everyone—one delicious bite at a time.