It is Saint Patrick’s Day! As my genetics are significantly Irish, I can relax after work with a Guinness and partake of traditional Irish food without fear of cultural appropriation accusations. For the record, instead of the boiled potatoes that probably caused my ancestors to chuck it all and move to America, I will be having a Reuben sandwich.
The Reuben was introduced by a Jewish man but contains corned beef which is associated with both Irish and Jewish cuisine. It also contains sauerkraut which, I guess, is a nod to my German heritage. We will substitute sourdough for rye bread (the origins of both are ancient and non-ethnic) since Kim thinks it’s icky. Provolone will take the place of the traditional Swiss cheese. This is not because we have any animosity towards the Swiss, but because we have Provolone in the refrigerator. Thousand Island dressing originated in Western New York and has many origin stories that don’t include Israel or Ireland, but I will keep it in the sandwich anyway. Now that I’ve justified my Saint Patrick’s day dinner, I will add that all the WokeFolks that think only the group that originated a thing can wear, say, eat, drink, celebrate or in any way interact with that thing can simply go “interact with themselves”. I really am part Irish but I welcome one and all to celebrate Irish-ness today and have some much deserved fun!