Learn About Yakamein: Creole Fusion of Flavours

Yakamein is a dish that originated in New Orleans and has roots in African-American and Chinese cultures. It is a hearty soup made with beef, noodles, and various spices, and it has become a popular staple in the city's cuisine.

Teaching about Yakamein and its origins is important because it provides an opportunity to explore the cultural contributions of different communities and how those contributions have shaped American society. By learning about the origins of Yakamein, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of American culture.

Let's begin!

Printable & Activity Objectives

In this activity, your child will learn and research about the uniquely New Orlean's dish called Yakamein and its historical and culturally rich origins.

It will help your child or student:

1. An opportunity to explore the cultural contributions of different communities and how those contributions have shaped American society.
2. Understand the ways in which different cultures have influenced each other.

Classroom Resources

1. Introduction: Begin by introducing the concept of cross-cultures and why it's essential to understand and appreciate different cultures. Show the students pictures of Yakamein and ask if anyone knows what it is or where it comes from. Explain that Yakamein is a dish that originated in New Orleans and has roots in African-American and Chinese cultures.
2. Exploration: Divide the students into small groups and provide them with the Yakamein recipe. Have each group work together to read the recipe and discuss the cultural origins of the dish, typical flavours and ingredients used in Chinese and African-American/Creole cooking.
3. Reflection: Have each group present what they learned about the cultural history of Yakamein and how they incorporated that knowledge into their presentation. Write key ideas and phrases on the whiteboard or poster paper.
4. Culminating Activity: Using the key ideas and phrases generated during the reflection, have the students create a collaborative poster or presentation showcasing what they learned about Yakamein and its cultural significance. They can include pictures of their Yakamein creations, information about the ingredients and flavours, and reflections on the project.

Here's a good introduction to how to make Yakamein by New Orlean's very own Ms Linda a.k.a. The Yakamein Lady:

Here's a list of Yakamein shops / restaurants in New Orleans:

Where to Find Yak-A-Mein in New Orleans

‘Old Sober’ is an iconic New Orleans noodle soup and hangover cure

Eater New OrleansBeth D’Addono and Eater Staff

• Get started on the printable worksheets!

Share this Teaching Resource

What's in the Printable Worksheet Pack

This printable activity pack consists of a creative printable worksheets to complement your project based learning activity. Here's what it consists of:

• 1 Yakamein Ingredients Research Sheet.
• 1 Yakamein History and Best Recipe/Restaurant Research Sheet.
• 1 Yakamein Take-away Cup Design Sheet.

Click on the download link below to get started. Please note that this printable pack is only for paid members.