Food is a universal language that speaks to our taste buds and satisfies our hunger. Different cultures have unique customs and practices when it comes to eating and it is important to understand and respect them. From using specific utensils to observing strict protocols, food etiquette is an essential part of dining in many countries. Let us explore some of the fascinating food etiquette traditions from around the world.
Food Etiquette Around the World
Japan: Chopstick Etiquette
In Japan, chopsticks are an essential utensil for eating. However, there are a few important rules to follow when using them. It is considered rude to pass food from chopstick to chopstick, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Similarly, sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is taboo, as it is associated with funerals. Instead, lay them on a rest or on the edge of the bowl. When you are eating sushi it is recommended you eat in one bite.
France: The Art of Serving Wine
France is renowned for its wine and it is important to know how to serve it properly. When serving wine, hold the bottle at the bottom, rather than the neck. This ensures that any sediment remains in the bottle, rather than making its way into the glass. It is also customary to serve white wine before red and to only fill the glass halfway, so that the wine can be swirled to release its aroma. When it comes to eating, it is best to eat most of the food with a fork and when eating bread, tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and eat.
India: Eating with Your Hands
In many parts of India, you will observe that they eat with their hands, rather than utensils. However, certain rules apply. Only use your right hand, as the left is considered unclean. It is also recommended to use the tips of your fingers, rather than the whole hand and to avoid licking your fingers while eating.
Italy: No Cheese on Seafood
In Italy, it is considered a cardinal sin to put cheese on any seafood dish. This is because the strong flavour of cheese can overpower the delicate flavours of the seafood. Similarly, it is customary to use a fork and spoon rather than a knife and fork, as this allows you to scoop up any remaining sauce.
China: Toasting Etiquette
In China, toasting is an important part of dining etiquette. When someone proposes a toast, it is important to hold your glass lower than theirs as a sign of respect. You should also make eye contact when clinking glasses and take a sip before setting your glass back down.
Mexico: Sharing Food
In Mexico, it is common to share food with others at the table. This is often done by passing dishes around, rather than everyone having their own plate. When sharing food, it is polite to serve others before helping yourself. It is also customary to use tortillas or bread to scoop up any remaining sauce or toppings.
Korea: Sharing a Bowl of Rice
In Korea, a bowl of rice is shared with others at the table. However, you will have to follow certain rules. It is considered rude to lift the bowl off the table while eating, as this is reminiscent of begging. Instead, hold the bowl with one hand while using chopsticks with the other. It is also good to leave a small amount of rice in the bowl as a sign of gratitude.
Spain: Tapas Culture
In Spain, tapas are a popular type of snack or small plate that is often shared among friends. When ordering tapas, it is important to only take what you can eat. It is also acceptable to use toothpicks to pick up the food, rather than your fingers. When you’re finished, stack the toothpicks on the edge of your plate as a sign of how much you’ve eaten.
Middle East: Eating with the Right Hand
In many countries in the Middle East, it is customary to eat with your right hand, rather than utensils. This is because the left hand is considered unclean and is often reserved for personal hygiene. It is also polite to only take a small amount of food at a time, so as not to waste it.
United States: Tipping Etiquette
In the United States, it is customary to tip your server at a restaurant. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill and it is important to factor this into your budget when dining out. It is also polite to thank your server and compliment the food, especially if you’ve enjoyed it.
Brazil: Cutting Your Own Meat
In Brazil, it is common to eat churrasco, which is grilled meat served on skewers. When the skewers are brought to the table, it is customary to wait for the server to cut a piece of meat for you. However, once you’ve had your first piece, you’re expected to cut your own meat from the skewer.
Ethiopia: Eating with Injera
In Ethiopia, injera is a type of flatbread that is used as a utensil. You have to tear off a piece of injera, use it to scoop up the food and then eat it. When sharing food, it is considered polite to use a separate piece of injera for each dish.
Turkey: Drinking Tea
In Turkey, tea is a popular beverage and is often served as a sign of hospitality. When someone offers you tea, it is polite to accept it, even if you don’t want it. It is also customary to hold the glass by the rim, rather than the handle and to place your teaspoon on the saucer when you’re finished.
In conclusion, understanding food etiquette customs around the world is important when travelling or dining with people from different cultures. By following these customs, we can show respect and appreciation for other cultures, while also enjoying delicious food in the process. So, next time when you’re dining out, why not try some of these customs and see how they enhance your dining experience?
