Western cuisine
Western Cuisine
Western cuisine (pronunciation: /ˈwɛstərn kwiˈzin/), also known as Occidental cuisine, refers to the culinary traditions and practices originating from the Western world. This term broadly encompasses several regional cuisines, including North American cuisine, European cuisine, and Oceanian cuisine.
Etymology
The term "Western cuisine" is derived from the geographical term "Western world", which traditionally refers to the countries in the Western hemisphere, including Europe, the Americas, and Australasia. The word "cuisine" is borrowed from French, originally meaning "kitchen", but extended in English to mean the style of cooking.
History
Western cuisine has its roots in the cookery of the Western world, which has evolved over centuries. It has been significantly influenced by historical events, such as exploration and trade, leading to the introduction of new ingredients and cooking methods.
Characteristics
Western cuisine is characterized by the use of a wide variety of ingredients, including meat, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and grains. It also features a range of cooking techniques, from baking and grilling to sautéing and roasting.
Regional Variations
Western cuisine includes several regional cuisines, each with its own unique characteristics:
- North American cuisine: This includes the cuisines of the United States and Canada, which are known for dishes like hamburgers, hot dogs, and poutine.
- European cuisine: This encompasses a wide range of cuisines, including Italian cuisine, French cuisine, and British cuisine, known for dishes like pasta, coq au vin, and fish and chips.
- Oceanian cuisine: This includes the cuisines of Australia and New Zealand, known for dishes like meat pies and pavlova.
Related Terms
- Cuisine: A style or method of cooking, especially as characteristic of a particular country, region, or establishment.
- Cooking: The practice or skill of preparing food by combining, mixing, and heating ingredients.
- Food: Any nutritious substance that people or animals eat or drink or that plants absorb in order to maintain life and growth.
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