The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center hosted a Storytime at the Hub event this week that introduced attendees to the culture in the book “Halal Hot Dogs” and included a tasty halal meal that celebrated that culture’s cuisine.

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During the July 15 event, children and their caregivers listened to a reading of Susannah Aziz’s “Halal Hot Dogs,” a story that centers around a boy named Musa and his family as they share their favorite dishes. 

In the story, the family attends Jummah prayer service and has a special meal afterward. This week, it’s Musa’s turn to choose the post-Jummah treat and he chooses halal hot dogs. The story chronicles his adventure in his neighborhood to find his favorite food.

Jason Fate, the Hub’s program coordinator, said halal eatery Shuman’s Homewood prepared and delivered several of the dishes enjoyed by Musa’s family in the book. Attendees at the event enjoyed halal hot dogs, mecluba (a Palestinian dish of meat, rice, and vegetables), Riz bi Haleeb (a Lebanese rice pudding with pistachio topping), and molokhia (a Middle Eastern stew made of green molokhia leaves and meat), while also learning about the food and culture.

“The team at the Hub has been discussing ways to incorporate and lift up different cultures and traditions,” Fate said. “At the heart of this is family and the joy of sharing in learning together, enjoying a meal together, and getting closer to each other.”

The event, which drew 14 attendees, taught children and their caregivers about the different dishes described in the book, and they were able to sample the unique flavors described in “Halal Hot Dog.” Fate said attendees learned the name of the dishes and discussed the importance of sharing a meal together.

“We believe that when you learn about different beliefs and cultures, it can help foster empathy, open-mindedness, and curiosity,” Fate said. 

Fate added that Shuman’s Homewood is a long-standing partner with the Hub that often provides meals for its events and programs.

“When we decided to do the ‘Halal Hot Dogs’ book, we thought this might be a good opportunity  to share about the foods described in the book,” he said. “Shuman’s provides halal options and many of the dishes from the story. Naela Shuman and Muhammad Mere from Shuman’s Homewood have provided support to many residents and organizations in the neighborhood and have been a powerful force for good in Homewood.”

Local resident Barbara Lewis attended the event with grandchildren.

“This was such a great idea, and what an experience to try different foods,” she said. “I love the Homewood Hub & Family Center, and I will always come back.”

Fate said the Hub intends to do more events in the future similar to the book-and-food pairing “Halal Hot Dogs” event.

The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center is located at 7219 Kelly St. in Pittsburgh.