Today is the 29th of the month. Every month in Argentina, a small national holiday is celebrated on this day.  It is not a day to commemorate Argentina´s independence or a great battle in the country´s history, rather it is one to celebrate food. The 29th of the month (any month) in Argentina, is the day of the ñoquis.

Now why ñoquis (gnocchi) and why on the 29th of the month, might you ask? Well after doing some research you will find that there are a few versions of the tradition of this day. The most commonly accepted story is that Italian immigrant housewives created the celebration. The 29th was selected because it was typically the day when people were the poorest - the day before payday. Ñoquis are a cheap yet filling meal, that families enjoyed with the hopes of attracting prosperity. To do so, they placed a one peso coin under their plates in hopes that it will grow in value in the next month. Also, the money  can be lef for the hostess to pay for the ñoqui for the following month, or can be given to a member of the party who is in need

This simple - yet widely celebrated - tradition in Argentina is just another custom of the country! You can buy freshly made ñoquis at local shops or try to make your own!

Here is a recipe!

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/gnocchi-i/

Happy Ñoqui Day to all! Buen provecho!

Argentina has been busy these summer months with many new volunteers arriving. With the program growing each month with more volunteers, so has the Projects Abroad staff here in Cordoba. In February we welcomed Candelaria to the Projects Abroad team...here is a little bit more about her!

Hello everyone! I’m Cande, a new volunteer coordinator at Projects Abroad in Córdoba, Argentina.

I was born in Buenos Aires and lived in many different places in Argentina. I also travelled abroad a few times and I really enjoyed it, that’s why I’m so interested in working with Projects Abroad, it allows me to keep meeting people from othercountries and give them all the help they need to enjoy their stay in Argentina.

I’ve studied Public and Institutional Relations at university and I’ve always worked in social programs that helped people in different ways, such as building homes for families who lived in extreme poverty conditions or working with children with disabilities. I love this kind of work so I will be thrilled to keep doing it trough Projects Abroad programs.

I'm  very happy to be a part of Projects Abroad and I'm looking forward to meeting you and working together soon!