[Rikuzentakata] Encouragement with the taste of Myanmar by volunteers of Korean descent living in Japan

Excerpt from Iwate Nippo, April 11, 2011.

On the 9th, fifteen volunteers from Myanmar (Burma) living in Japan prepared a Burmese meal at the Shimoyahagi Community Center in Yahagi-cho, Rikuzentakata City. The evacuees were surprised by the unique aroma and taste of the foreign food, but were also encouraged.

The meal consisted of six dishes, including Chatha Al Hin (chicken, carrot, radish, and potato soup curry), Chow Hin (boiled egg stir-fried with tomato), and mini cakes. 300 servings were prepared and distributed to the evacuees. The Chatha Al Hin soup curry was particularly popular, with many people asking for seconds.

Cho Cho So (47), who runs a Burmese restaurant in Tokyo, said, "Burmese cuisine uses onions, carrots, and ginger. It's a flavor that Japanese people also like. I hope that people will feel energized by trying dishes they don't usually eat."

Tenro Murakami (1st year student at Takada Junior High School), who continues to live in the evacuation shelter, said with a satisfied look, "I was surprised by the taste of authentic curry. The chicken was tender and delicious." Setsuko Murakami (64) was delighted, saying, "I never thought I'd be able to eat Burmese food."

Jotaro Kato, representative director of the NPO APFS, which cooperated in the visit to the disaster-stricken area, pledged to continue the support, saying, "This time, 15 people came, but there are 50 people who would like to participate. In addition to cooking, we would like to cooperate in cleaning activities and other things."

[Photo: Evacuees smile as they enjoy foreign cuisine prepared by Myanmar people at Shimoyahagi Community Center, Rikuzentakata City]