ANZAC Day is a commemoration of Australian troops landing on the beaches of Gallipoli on April 25 1915 and, after landing at the base of very steep cliffs, suffering significant losses and casualties. Despite the extraordinary loss of life that day, Australians recognize the day both in honor of those who gave their lives and as a testament to the enduring spirit, determination and bravery of Australian and New Zealand service men and women throughout history and into the present day.
ANZAC biscuits (actually a cookie but for historical reasons they shall always be called biscuits) originated during World War 1 and due to their long shelf life, were baked and sent to Australian and New Zealand troops serving overseas.
The recipe is rooted in the inclusion of rolled oats, unsweetened coconut and golden syrup (an ingredient that takes some searching to purchase in America but can be found in the "International" sections of many supermarkets). In fact, legally it cannot be called an Anzac biscuit unless it contains the ingredients true to the original recipe. The cookie has taken on a substantial personality and is inextricably linked to all that we honor on April 25.
As I am away from my homeland I chose to pay tribute today to the sacrifices of all armed services personnel (including my brother whose contribution is a continued source of pride for me) by baking a batch of ANZAC biscuits.
Take a moment with me to think of those who dedicate themselves to our service:
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.
Sometimes food is that much more special when it comes with meaning. Tell me about a food item that means something to your culture or family.
Cheers
Joo
I think cookies are a great way to honor them. If someone were to honor me, I'd want them to eat cookies that I enjoyed. It's not depressing and brings happiness.
ReplyDeleteI don't really have any family or cultury food items. Maybe the cookies we made for Christmas growing up. It doesn't feel right to make them throughout the rest of the year, and if I don't eat any in December it feels like something's missing.