Events

Nov 10 2024

The Spoken Canteen with Jess Murphy

Join us for an evening of sharing food and sharing stories at The Spoken Canteen as a part of the Samhain Festival of Food and Culture 2024 on November 10th at 4 pm at The Red Chapel.
Led by acclaimed chef and UNHCR ambassador Jess Murphy, alongside anthropologist Dr. Yifan Wang, The Spoken Canteen will bring communities together through the timeless act of sharing food and stories.
This evening of cultural exploration will feature a premiere of a short film produced by Tomek Ciezki of Heavy Man Films, showcasing the stories of refugees from Afghanistan, Iran, Malawi, Ukraine, and Yemen, now living in Clare, Galway, Kildare, Dublin and Cork, will share how they have fused their food traditions with Irish cuisine, demonstrating the resilience of culture through the language of food.
“As a chef, I believe food is a bridge between cultures,” said Jess Murphy. “It’s a way to share stories, break down barriers, and create connections. The Spoken Canteen is an opportunity to celebrate diversity through the incredible flavours these individuals bring to the table.”
In addition to storytelling, The Spoken Canteen offers guests an immersive culinary experience. As guests enjoy the film, they will sample a tasting menu curated by Murphy, featuring dishes inspired by the storytellers native cuisines, interwoven with Irish ingredients.
“Food is a powerful force for unity and belonging, especially for those forced to leave their homes,” said a UNHCR spokesperson for Ireland, Aoife Harte. “Initiatives like The Spoken Canteen show how food can help rebuild a sense of identity and foster community connections.”
The menu is an eclectic fusion of flavours from around the globe:

– Afghan Boulanee Katchalu (flatbread stuffed with kale, potato, spinach, and turnip) served with a mint, coriander, and green chili chutney.
– Malawian East African Kuri Squash, Peanut & Squash Leaf Curry , blending squash, tomatoes, peanuts, and rich spices.
– Ukrainian Saukraut & Potato Varenyky , traditional dumplings made with cabbage kraut and organic potatoes.
– Iranian Nan-e Berenji (rice flour cookies with saffron, rose water, and pistachios) accompanied by mint tea.
– Yemeni Honey & Cheese Selection , featuring wild Yemeni honey and an Irish all-female producers cheese selection, paired with an Irish Heather Sour Ale.

Guests will also receive a gift bag including 3fe Yemeni coffee to take home, further extending this culinary journey. The Spoken Canteen is more than just a meal—it is a celebration of human stories and shared experiences. Join us at the Samhain Festival for this powerful and moving event.
Come join us for this celebration
All profits from this event are being donated to the UNHCR.