Kids Try CHamoru Food Filled with Island Flavors! 🇬🇺

A delicious way to explore Guam’s culture, one bite at a time!

What happens when kids taste food from another culture? They build curiosity, courage, and connection! In this fun activity, kids explore the flavors of Guam through CHamoru food and discover how meals can tell the story of a place and its people.

 

At Global Sprouts, we believe that trying new foods is a simple yet powerful way to introduce children to the world around them. In this post, we highlight the tastes, traditions, and fun of CHamoru cooking.

What is CHamoru Food?

CHamoru food comes from the Indigenous people of Guam and blends island-grown ingredients with flavors influenced by Spain, Asia, and the U.S. Over generations, these recipes have been passed down, prepared at family gatherings, and shared with love.

Some kid-friendly dishes include:

  • Kelaguen – Grilled chicken or seafood chopped and mixed with lemon juice, coconut, onions, and a little spice.

  • Red Rice – A bright, orange-red rice flavored with annatto seeds is served with almost every meal.

  • Titiyas – Soft, flatbread-like tortillas that are perfect for scooping up other dishes.

  • Latiya – A sweet treat made with sponge cake, creamy custard, and sprinkled cinnamon.

Kids Take the Challenge!

We asked a few adventurous young foodies to give CHamoru food a try and here’s what they said:

  • “The red rice looks funny, but it tastes like a big hug!” – Maya, age 6

  • “I like the chicken one! It’s sour and yummy.” – Eli, age 4

  • “The bread is soft, and I dipped it in the meat. Can we have more?” – Lily, age 7

  • “I like the sweet one the best! It’s creamy and tastes like cinnamon!” – Ben, age 5

Their reactions were filled with laughter, wide eyes, and a few surprising favorites!

What Kids Learn Through Food

This activity isn’t just about tasting something new, it’s a chance to learn in a hands-on, joyful way. When kids explore CHamoru food, they:

  • Discover that food is part of a culture’s story

  • Use their senses to learn—smelling, touching, tasting, and seeing

  • Build bravery by trying new things

  • Create memories around family, traditions, and togetherness

Try CHamoru Food at Home!

Want to try CHamoru flavors with your family? Here’s a fun recipe to make Titiyas together:

Easy CHamoru Titiyas (Flatbread)

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons shortening or butter

  • 3/4 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Mix dry ingredients.

  2. Cut in shortening or butter.

  3. Add water and mix until the dough forms.

  4. Roll out small balls into flat circles.

  5. Cook on a dry skillet until lightly browned on both sides.

Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, or use it to scoop up your favorite dishes!

Ready to Explore?

Your little one will get hands-on with CHamoru crafts, stories, and even a Titiyas recipe the whole family can try!
Click the link below to watch the CHamoru making video together.

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