Ever wondered what people around the world eat? Despite so many different cultures, languages, and traditions, it’s incredibly fascinating to learn how certain dishes and foods can unite us. Though we may come from different corners of the planet, our shared love for food never fails to bring us all closer together. Here, we explore five of the most consumed foods worldwide, foods that have transcended borders and reached the hearts (and stomachs) of billions.
1. Rice: The Global Grain
There’s a reason this humble grain is a staple for over half the world’s population. When it comes to rice, you can probably think of a dish in every cuisine that utilizes this amazing ingredient. Incredibly versatile, rice can lend itself to sweet and savoury dishes, acting as the backbone of countless meals worldwide.
From the aromatic basmati rice of India to the sticky sushi rice of Japan, to the jambalaya of Louisiana, rice is as diverse as the many cultures that consume it. From being used in dishes like rice pudding, curries, mochi, and onigiri, you can already see just how incredible this ingredient can be. Packed with energy-providing carbohydrates and essential vitamins and minerals, it’s not just delicious to eat, it’s good for you too!
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2. Wheat: The Staff of Life
When it comes to wheat, it’s a staple ingredient for many people. Similarly to rice, it’s an incredibly versatile food that can be transformed into many things. From bread, pasta, cereals, and pastries, our breakfasts, lunches, and dinners often start with wheat.
It’s one that is commonly used and beloved by countries around the world - from the baguettes of France to the naan bread of India to the tortillas of Mexico. Can you imagine a world where spaghetti dinner was made without wheat-based pasta? How about a birthday celebration without a wheat-flour cake? While you may not have realized it, wheat is so very prevalent in your daily consumption of food. Not only does wheat cater to our comfort food cravings, but it also provides necessary nutrients like fibre, iron, and B vitamins.
3. Chicken: The Universal Protein
While meat is consumed worldwide, chicken takes the top spot on the podium for being the most popular meat. It’s lean, relatively affordable, and above all else, it’s delicious. Chicken can be found as the main source of protein in many dishes around the world. From the mouth-watering jerk chicken of Jamaica to the flavourful chicken tikka masala of India to the crispy crunchy fried chicken of South Korea, there’s a chicken dish out there for everyone. To make things even better, this poultry powerhouse is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals!
4. Corn (Maize): The Golden Grain
As another worldwide favourite, corn is a golden grain remarkable for its versatility. It’s not just about eating it straight off the cob! You’ll be surprised to learn just how many different foods around the world use corn as their main ingredient. From tortillas in Mexico, polenta in Italy, and corn pudding in the Southern United States, corn can be used for both sweet treats and savoury dishes. Plus, it’s a major player in the production of high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener that can be found in many processed foods. Offering a good dose of fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s truly a miracle food.
Image by Abdulhakeem Samae from Pixabay
5. Potatoes: Spud-tacular Superfood
When it comes to one of the most comforting foods, potatoes might just be at the top of your list. Whether they’re mashed, boiled, baked, or fried, potatoes are a beloved addition to any meal around the world. Hearty, filling, and warming, you can enjoy them in the form of Belgian fries, Russian vodka, Irish stew, or beloved American mashed potatoes. Even used as potato starch and flour, you’ll be surprised by just how transformative the humble potato can really be. Aside from their obvious deliciousness, you’ll be happy to hear that potatoes are also an excellent source of Vitamin C and potassium.
Image by Christos Giakkas from Pixabay
As regular day-to-day ingredients often used in home cooking, it’s no wonder these five amazing food items made it on this list. Still, with so many different countries all over the world, it’s pretty cool learning that you have more similarities with people than you think. This just goes to show you how powerful of a connection food can build between people who come from entirely different walks of life.
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