Food items

The Karen people sometimes do not always acclimate to U.S.-style food, and for the most part don't initially know how to prepare or eat it. Karen families will often throw away donated food rather than offend by refusing it altogether. Here is a sample grocery list of some foods commonly preferred by the Karen.
Rice: Rice is the common base for almost every meal, and can be found at regular grocery stores and Asian food stores.
Noodles: Thin rice noodles can be purchased at Asian food stores.
Fresh Vegetables: Broccoli, cucumbers, lettuce, greens, bean sprouts, green beans, etc. The Karen use almost any type of vegetables. They generally prefer fresh to canned.
Meats: Chicken, pork, beef, some fish, etc. Meats make up the main bulk of most meals. Some families do not eat certain types of meat, e.g. pork, so double check beforehand.
Herbs: Mint, cilantro, basil and other fresh herbs are common in Karen cooking.
Eggs
Fresh Fruits: Oranges, bananas, berries, apples, pineapples, peaches, etc. The Karen generally eat all kinds of fresh fruits as sweets or desserts.
Peppers and Chilis: Karen food is sometimes very spicy and seasoned with different peppers, including green and red Thai Chilies, found at Asian food stores.
Specific Foods and Brands:
- Canned Sauces: These can be found in Asian grocery stores. A popular brand is Maesri, and their products include "Nam Ya; Thai Noodle Sauce," red curry, and massaman curry.
- Fish Sauce: This pungent sauce is used in most dishes. It is sold at mainline grocery stores in the 'ethnic food' sections, and Asian food stores.
- Lime juice: Used for seasoning
- Fish Powder with Chili: A good brand for this is Suree, and is sold at Asian food stores.
- Chili Paste: Maesri brand supplies a large variety, depending on the store, of different flavored chili pastes.

This is obviously not an exhaustive list, and tastes vary often widely between families and individuals.

"Karen family in Denver receives a sewing machine"

"Karen children receive a bike"