by Francesca Biller-Safran

Created on: November 20, 2008

While growing up within two diversely different cultures has left me and my siblings with bittersweet challenges, we have always had the sweet comforts of the family meal and a 'welcoming' table that has satisfied both our appetites and spirits.

Feasting on distinctive recipes passed down from my father's Russian-Jewish family and mother's exotic blend of Japanese-Hawaiian serve as a reminder that we are a family nourished by honoring our heritage and the diverse ingredients that make us whole.

My family is blessed with the piquancy of two cultures that make meals both savory and resplendent; and while we have often felt excluded as an interracial family, we have welcomed both cultures to the table as each recipe is relished.

Some memories of exclusion have been difficult, but a chance for growth as we look back now. For instance, it always took a great deal of patience and time to feel accepted by our peers.

In Hawaii, we were called Haole, a word that means 'white' or foreigner.' I can still hear the teasing words as I didn't fit in with either the Caucasian or Japanese kids.

And in Los Angeles, I was the only child at my school with a Japanese mother and white father. I was once told it is an impossibility to be both Japanese and Jewish. This was a revelation in that I have since felt it my calling to prove I am the proud offspring of both cultures, and will continue to do so with integrity and honor.

Although there have been challenges, the result can be inspiring when ravishing meals and company have spiced the soul and quelled our hunger for acceptance. Dinners prepared by my elegant mother from the Kona Coast of Hawaii would please any guest, as each entre and Pupu, Hawaiian for appetizer, is served in the traditional style.

This style calls for a relaxed atmosphere; "talking story" which means casual conversations, fresh flowers, and more "Ono" Hawaiian for "delicious" food than anyone can possibly eat.

Festive dishes from both cultures are infused together like a perfect orchestrated sonata or tranquil island song with just the perfect pitch and mellifluous harmony.

A typical meal offers fresh Mahi Mahi, an overabundance of rice and vegetables, macaroni salad, homemade spaghetti, pork roast, moist teriyaki chicken, and apple pies with freshly picked ripened fruit.

Remembering the meals of my grandparents sparks vivid memories of cooking over large pots and iron skillets, with each culture adding spice to a life already peppered with richness and acceptance.

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