Development of culinary traditions (must study British cuisine and a minimum of TWO international Cuisines) Flashcards
Development of Culinary Traditions
Culinary traditions develop over time due to history, geography, climate, and cultural influences. Different cuisines have distinct ingredients, cooking methods, presentation styles, and eating patterns.
British Cuisine
Features and Characteristics
✔ Influenced by seasonal ingredients and local farming.
✔ Uses simple, hearty dishes with meat, dairy, root vegetables, and grains.
✔ Traditional dishes include roast dinners, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and full English breakfast.
Traditional Ingredients
• Meat: Beef, lamb, pork, chicken.
• Dairy: Butter, cheese, milk, cream.
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, cabbage, peas, onions.
• Grains: Bread, oats, barley, wheat.
Religious or Cultural Factors
• British cuisine includes Christian influences, such as hot cross buns at Easter and Christmas pudding.
• Sunday roast is a long-standing tradition.
Traditional Cooking Methods and Presentation
✔ Roasting – Beef, lamb, and chicken for Sunday dinners.
✔ Baking – Pies, bread, and cakes.
✔ Boiling and steaming – Vegetables and puddings.
Eating Patterns
✔ Three main meals a day: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
✔ Tea culture – Afternoon tea with sandwiches, cakes, and scones.
Adaptation to Today’s Society
✔ Health-conscious changes – Less frying, more grilling and steaming.
✔ Vegetarian and vegan options – Nut roasts, plant-based shepherd’s pie.
✔ Fusion cuisine – British dishes influenced by other cultures (e.g., chicken tikka masala).
Italian cuisine
Features and Characteristics
✔ Mediterranean diet – Uses olive oil, fresh vegetables, seafood, grains, and herbs.
✔ Focuses on fresh, simple ingredients with strong flavours.
✔ Regional variations – Northern Italy favours creamy dishes, Southern Italy prefers tomato-based recipes.
Traditional Ingredients
• Pasta (spaghetti, penne, ravioli)
• Tomatoes, basil, oregano, garlic
• Olive oil
• Cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, ricotta)
• Seafood, chicken, beef
Religious or Cultural Factors
• Catholic influence – Some Italians avoid meat on Fridays.
• Feasting and fasting traditions, especially at Christmas and Easter.
Traditional Cooking Methods and Presentation
✔ Boiling and baking – Pasta and pizza.
✔ Grilling – Meats and seafood.
✔ Slow cooking – Tomato sauces and stews.
Eating Patterns
✔ Smaller breakfast, large lunch, light dinner.
✔ Meals often include multiple courses (starter, main, dessert).
Adaptation to Today’s Society
✔ Whole-wheat pasta and gluten-free options.
✔ Less cheese and oil for healthier dishes.
✔ Pre-made sauces and convenience foods for busy lifestyles.
Indian cuisine
Features and Characteristics
✔ Known for strong spices, rich sauces, and diverse vegetarian dishes.
✔ North India – Uses dairy, wheat-based foods (naan, chapati).
✔ South India – Uses coconut, rice-based dishes (dosa, idli).
Traditional Ingredients
• Spices: Turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom.
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas.
• Dairy: Ghee, yoghurt, paneer.
• Rice and wheat-based breads.
Religious or Cultural Factors
• Hinduism – Many Hindus do not eat beef.
• Islam – Halal meat is required.
• Vegetarianism – Common due to Buddhist and Hindu influences.
Traditional Cooking Methods and Presentation
✔ Tandoor cooking – High-heat clay oven for naan and tandoori chicken.
✔ Frying and sautéing – Curries and vegetable dishes.
✔ Slow cooking – Stews and dals.
Eating Patterns
✔ Shared meals – Served in small dishes, eaten with flatbreads or rice.
✔ Hand-eating tradition – Some people eat with their hands instead of utensils.
Adaptation to Today’s Society
✔ Less oil and cream for healthier curries.
✔ Vegan alternatives – Coconut-based instead of dairy-based dishes.
✔ Pre-prepared spice mixes and frozen meals for convenience.
