Fussy eating students become Lebanese cuisine converts after workshop

Level 1 Health & Social Care students at Wiltshire College were initially a bit hesitant about preparing and tasting Arabic dishes, but by the end of the session with Wafaa Powell from Dancing Flavours, they were writing down the recipes.

The cooking session at the Trowbridge campus was just one of several activities and events being held at the four main Wiltshire Colleges campuses throughout May as part of Cultural Awareness month.

Three groups booked on to the workshops on Wednesday, May 17 and those taking part said they would like to recreate the dishes again at home.

Tara Howell, 18, from Trowbridge, said: “I really enjoyed learning about different food and recipes.

“I am a bit of a fussy eater and don’t usually eat salad but I enjoyed what we made with Wafaa.

“I also thought before this that you could only use olive oil to cook with, I didn’t know that you could use it as a dressing and it was really nice.”

Chloe Mitchell, 16, from Frome, said: “I have tried couscous before but not heard of bulgur wheat, which is very similar.

“I really enjoyed cutting up all the salad and learning about herbs, which I would have ever thought about using in a salad.

“It was good and nice to learn about foods from other cultures and countries.”

Mrs Powell has visited Wiltshire College several times previously, often teaching belly dancing to staff and students, but this time was delighted to show students how to prepare an authentic salad, dip and bulgur wheat accompaniment.

She said: “I love sharing with others my passion for food and dance and both of these things are culture.

“I like to introduce people to the Arabic culture and Lebanese food is one of the healthiest ways of eating.

“I really enjoyed working with the students and it was lovely to hear such positive feedback.”

Other activities that have taken place include a British tea party, African drumming, ceramic painting, Henna tattoos and Mexican mask making.