For the Love of Basketball
How we incorporated the Los Angeles Lakers into our food
Growing up as an immigrant in Los Angeles can be a lonely experience. Learning the language and the shyness that stems from different insecurities can make it hard to make friends. That’s why I’ll always be grateful for sports, which seem to have a magical property that allows children to make new connections.
Although soccer is the most popular sport in Peru, I was never a fan. Watching the Lakers for the first time at the age of 11 made me fall in love with basketball. I loved the Lakers and had the privilege to grow up watching them during their threepeat era.
That’s why the Crispy Potato Rice Roll means so much to me. It’s a combination of many of my favorite foods and favorite team. Potato and rice are Peruvian staples, and we were able to combine them in a way that showcases a Chinese favorite. But the best part is that it sports the purple and gold I love so much! As you eat it, you can think about all the great past victories and the city's expectations that our players will play with heart and pride.
— Cesar
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