Culture Connections With Food

Have you ever wondered that what you consume can tell so much about your culture? Have you ever wondered why other people from different countries eat different types of food? Have you ever quired that why a particular food or culinary tradition so important to your culture? That is what the connection between food and culture means. Eventually, we grow up eating our cultural food, in no time, it becomes a part of who we are. Many of us associate food with warm feelings and childhood memories as it holds a special place in our minds.

On a larger scale, to maintain culture and pass it from one generation to another, traditional food plays an essential role. When immigrants settle abroad, they don't want to lose their culture. They carry their culture through the aroma and flavor of their cuisine and preserve it. Additionally, when we try to understand each other's culture. The first step is to taste the flavor of each other's cuisine. The cuisine of various countries reflects their unique history, lifestyle, values, and beliefs.

Indians, inspired by western culture, have adapted their attire and other customs. But couldn't adapt their food as their cultural food gives them much satisfaction. Cultural habits are also associated with food. In some places, it is common to eat with your hands. In other places, it is considered uncivilized. Somewhere, finishing the food on your plate is polite. In other places, this means disobeying their culture. Food provides a significant link to our cultural heritage. We should cherish each dish as it holds a special place in the culture it belongs to. The best portal into a culture is through food.

By: Tanishka Gutgutia
Pathways World School, Aravali Gurugram