It’s a real treat to dive into the culture and history of a dish! The traditional food and drink is more than just something to fill up your stomach. They transport you back in time and reveal their secrets. Join us for a culinary journey that will warm your stomach and your heart for generations.
Japan is the first stop. Ah, sushi. The little joys of life. Do you know that sushi was originally created to preserve fish? In the past, people used to wrap their fish with fermented rice steamed in order to keep it fresh. Fast forward a few centuries, and remove the fermentation. Add some style. Voila! Each piece of sushi can be considered a work-of-art.
Fly to Italy and enjoy the “Dolce Vita”, carbs, and more. Pasta is king in Italy. It has many crowns. The local landscape influences the shapes of pasta. Pasta shapes are varied, from delicate angel hairs to hearty rigatonis in the south. Italians are known to be simple cooks, despite their fancy shapes and sauces. Garlic + Olive Oil + Pasta = Magic.
Next up: Ethiopia. Have you tried to eat off your dinner plate before? With injera, you kinda do! Injera is a soft, spongy bread that can be used for food, as well as utensils and plates. The injera made of teff (a tiny, but powerful grain) is perfect for scooping up spicy soups. This multitasker is amazing!
Why not head to Mexico and enjoy a few shots of tequila. This spirit is produced from the blue-agave plant, which grows in Jalisco. The history of tequila is rich. Tequila was the first distilled drink in North America thanks to resourceful Conquistadors. Tequila is Mexico, whether it’s drunk straight or mixed with margaritas and a shake. It is vibrant and full of life.
In India, tea is not just tea. It’s also a way of life. Imagine this spiced wonder being served at roadside stalls while people gather around to talk about everything. Chai is not just about drinking tea. Chai is also about sharing special moments.
Korea is also known for its obsession with kimchi, a crunchy cabbage fermented in a variety of ways. It can be made with ginger, chili peppers, or even pears. This is not just a side dish of cabbage. This dish is proof that sometimes letting things sit can lead to unexpected results.
Haggis in Scotland is a mix of oatmeal, spices and sheep organs that are then stuffed into another sheep organ. Sounds crazy? Try it before you judge! Haggis is a rustic delight, just like Scotland.
Each bite takes you on a trip through space and time without ever leaving your dinner table.
The next time you enjoy these tasty treats, keep in mind that you’re not just eating food; you’re also consuming a piece of history. You can use them without a Ph.D. and just add some training to the mix, as humans are often the weakest link.