Top 20 Food Cultures

Top-20-food-cultures

One of the best ways to experience any culture is to try the culinary masterpieces it presents. Food is the only thing in this world that can cross boundaries and bring people of different casts and creeds. If it can please your palette, it will surely warm your heart.  Cuisines have changed over the period. Many of the key ingredients have never changed since then. From authentic recipes to hybrid cuisines and from tradition to the modern variation of the dishes, here is the list of the top 20 food cultures from around the world.

1.Italian

One of the oldest cuisines in the world is Italian and comes first on the list. It is well known for its signature dishes like homemade pasta and Margarita pizza. It is more than that since Italy is composed of 20 regions, and each region produces its unique dishes and flavors. Italian cuisine has different meats, sausages, and cheese. Perhaps, one of the most famous dishes that is a world favorite is Pasta Bolognese, and no one can say no to a piece of perfect-looking tiramisu. Italian food culture is colorful and has a plate that can please food lovers of every age.

2.French

French cuisine is some of the most well-known cuisines across the globe and is often considered a classic by most aspiring chefs and food critics. France has gifted the world its well-known Bugets and unique dishes like macron. It is renowned for its patisserie and desserts. This cuisine has it all. From rustic meals to hearty ones, it is an artistic experience for every food lover.

3.Indian

India has always been a country full of diversity. Yet there has always been unity among people. Indian food culture stands at the third position. Summing up Indian cuisine in a few words is difficult. It is about the perfect blend of spices, flavors, and colors. Indian food is like a celebration served on a platter. From its street foods to sweets, every state has its signature dish. It is a must-be destination for those who seek a culturally diverse menu on one plate.

4.Thai

When we think of Thailand, the first thing that comes to mind is Pad Thai or some Thai curry. Thai food derives its influence from other Asian cuisines like China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar. This variation makes its cuisine a unique culinary experience. Thai food is a well-balanced combination of spicy, sweet, sour, and crunchy with wholesome goodness in one bowl.

5.Korean

The most common item on the Korean menu known worldwide is Kimchi. It is a side dish made with cabbage and spices and then fermented like most Asian cuisine. Korean cuisine has many staple rice dishes. Broth and different kinds of herbs are present in the flavors.

6.Japanese

Japanese food is all about precision, the country that gave the world gift of ramen noodles and sushi. Japanese cuisine uses the freshest ingredients. Many ingredients are unique in Japanese cuisine. Matcha green tea, vegetables, and fruits are rich in antioxidants. It makes it healthy and a visual treat for the eyes.

7.Chinese

Everyone in the world has once in their life tried Chinese. You can hardly visit a country where you will not find some Chinese food. Traditional Chinese food follows the concept of balance, like yin and yang. It also portrays the rich tradition the country had withheld through many centuries.

8.Mexican

Beans, rice, guacamole, salsa, tortilla, and all the spicy and colorful items remind you of a fiesta. Mexican cuisine is all about good times. It is the birthplace of tacos. Some of the most loved dishes from this cuisine are enchiladas, tostadas, and guacamole.

9.Greek

Greek food has been around for many centuries. It uses ingredients such as wheat, grape wine, and olive oil. Greek is famous for simple cooking techniques and has Mediterranean influences in cooking. Flavors used are mostly herbs like mint, basil, oregano, etc. It is also known for its thick yogurt and olives.

10.Mediterranean

Mediterranean cuisine has influences from many different cultures. There are three key ingredients to this cuisine i.e, wheat, grape wine, and meat. One of the most common dishes is pita bread, and hummus is also a popular dish in the cuisines.

11.Lebanese

Lebanese food is all about whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, and different sea foods. There is white meat over red. Also, animal fat is present in their foods sparingly. They add lemon for flavoring other herbs. The most popular dishes from this cuisine are kibbeh, rice pilaf, and Kafta.

12.Belgian

Belgium is home to waffles and fries, two of the most beloved dishes in the world. Belgian cuisine comes from Roman cuisine. Presently it is more influenced by Dutch, German, and French cuisine. From stews to meats to different desserts and sea foods, Belgian cuisine has it all for a food lover’s delight.

13.Turkish

Turkish cuisine has a heavy ottoman influence. The dishes are a fusion of middle eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian Cuisines.  Turkish cuisine has some iconic dishes that are famous across the globe. Kebabs and Baklava is a layered pastry prepared in Turkey. Also, Turkish delight is sweet and popular among children. Turkish coffee is a delight among the lover of beverage.

14.Jamaica

Soups, seafood, flavored meats, and tropical fruits classify Jamaican cuisine. One of the most iconic and unique dishes in Jamaica is the tropical fruit Ackee. It has seafood paired with fish to create the national dish Ackee and Salted Fish. Also, there are other popular dishes like jerk chicken and curried goat. They use various spices like ginger, garlic, curry powder, allspice, etc.

15.Egyptian

The land of the Pharaoh offers some dishes that are fit for royalty. Egyptian cuisine uses whatever it can cultivate from around the soil. The cuisine uses a combination of vegetables, legumes, and fruits. Egyptian cuisine also has preparations made from duck and pigeon. Khusari is a national dish made with macaroni, rice, and lentil. Tea is the most popular beverage in the country.

16.English

The United Kingdom is not only about royalty, but it offers some unique dishes. Fish and Chips are one of the most popular dishes in English cuisine. Another popular dish is Shepherd’s pie. A full English breakfast is loved everywhere and thus stands sixteenth on the list.

17.Russian

Russian cuisine comes from four different cuisines. They include Old Russian, Old Moscow, 18th-century cuisine, and Petersberg Cuisine. Also, Cold soups are a specialty of Russian cuisine. Russia is also famous for its vodka, but they are also home to beverages like Kvass, Mors, Seiten, and Medovukh, a honey-based alcoholic drink.

18.German

German cuisine is known for its wide array of sausages since it has been a long tradition of sausage making. But its food culture is also influenced by its neighbouring countries. Most of the dishes are well-balanced and barely spicy.

19.Moroccan

Moroccan cuisine is a meat-based staple diet. It comes with a wide range of species that enhance both the savoury and sweet dishes with their flavors. Moroccans use wheat to make bread and couscous. It is a staple that is eaten together with various meat and seafood dishes. Herbs like parsley, mint, sage, and oregano with olive oil, argan oil, dried fruits, and salted butter add a distinctive Moroccan flair to the dishes.

20.Fijian

When we say Fiji, the Island with clear water and sandy beaches with picturesque location comes into mind. Fijian cuisine mostly has a wide range of seafood and vegetables, influenced by China, India, and Britain. It had created a unique culinary wonder post-colonization. Also, it is a must-try for all food lovers. It is a delight to both eyes and a gastronomic experience for all.