January: Celebrating Culinary Diversity at USO Rota with "Cooking with Sergio"

By: Diana Corinealdi

Nestled in the heart of NAVSTA Rota, the USO stands as a steadfast pillar of support and camaraderie for active-duty service members and their families. Amidst the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the warm atmosphere at USO Rota, one exceptional individual has emerged, leaving a flavorful imprint with his culinary prowess—Sergio Agullo.

Hailing from Spain, Sergio is an integral member of the USO Rota community, enchanting participants at weekly gatherings with his delectable dishes. While USO Rota is renowned for preparing American classics like hotdogs, grilled cheese, and chili during the popular Gaming Hour, Sergio recently embraced the opportunity to infuse the military community with the authentic tastes of Spain.

During a recent Coffee Connections event tailored for military spouses to connect and engage in diverse activities, Sergio proposed an exciting departure from the routine. Instead of the usual fare, he suggested imparting the art of crafting a Spanish tortilla, a beloved dish in his homeland. Eager to foster cultural exchange through food, attendees eagerly embraced the chance to learn from Sergio.

The event unfolded as a delightful success, with participants not only mastering the intricacies of crafting a traditional Spanish tortilla but also relishing the results of Sergio’s cherished family recipe. Such overwhelming interest led to numerous individuals being waitlisted, underscoring the enthusiasm within the community.

Buoyed by this positive response, USO Rota has decided to inaugurate a new program: “Cooking with Sergio.” Starting in February, Sergio will host a monthly event showcasing his culinary expertise, featuring different Spanish dishes each time. This initiative is open to all active-duty service members and their spouses, fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

Given the limited space in the USO center, registration is required for those desiring to partake in “Cooking with Sergio.” Nonetheless, USO Rota is enthusiastic about accommodating as many individuals as possible, recognizing the value of uniting people through the universal language of food.

As USO Rota continues to forge connections and provide a comforting sense of home away from home, “Cooking with Sergio” promises to be a distinctive and savory addition to the array of events offered. The USO team envisions that this culinary initiative will not only acquaint attendees with the rich flavors of Spain but also serve as a poignant reminder of the diverse backgrounds that collectively shape the NAVSTA Rota community.