In a time marked by social division and cultural fragmentation, Agora Aveiro’s project “I Love Aveiro: Cooking for Solidarity” set out to rediscover what brings us together. And we found our answer in food.

Launched in 2024 and funded by the European Solidarity Corps, this project recognized food as a universal language — one that has the power to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and foster inclusion. Inspired by the growing demographic diversity of Aveiro, “Cooking for Solidarity” invited people of all backgrounds to come together in the kitchen, not only to cook, but to connect.

Through a series of hands-on workshops led by immigrants now living in Aveiro, the project created a space where stories, traditions, and identities could be shared. Participants from around the world cooked side by side, learning not just recipes but the cultural meaning behind each dish.

From the saffron rice of Iran to Ukrainian varenyky, from Indian traditions of eating with one’s hands to Brazilian sweets served with Turkish coffee — every session was a journey. These gatherings were more than cooking classes: they were acts of cultural exchange, empathy, and solidarity.

Aveiro, once known for ovos moles and eel stew, now embraces nearly 100 nationalities. This transformation was both an opportunity and a responsibility — to create belonging. And “Cooking for Solidarity” did just that.

As the project comes to an end, its legacy lives on in the Flavours of Aveiro cookbook — a collection of recipes and stories that reflect the richness of the city’s multicultural identity. It’s more than a cookbook: it’s a living document of migration, memory, and resilience.

Whether it’s Natalia’s nostalgic varenyky from the Ukrainian countryside, Denise’s Brazilian fusion dishes, or Saman’s perfectly flipped Persian rice, every recipe is infused with personal history and a desire to connect.

As one participant said: “Food has a unique capacity to bring people together. It’s something we all share and that, at the same time, reflects our cultural identity.”

As we close this chapter, we invite everyone to explore the cookbook, try the recipes, and share in the spirit of solidarity that defined this journey. “Flavours of Aveiro”, done with love by our volunteers, is available for download now on our website at agoraaveiro.org/en/documents.