Foods In Asia Essays - Steaming, Staple Food, Cooking, Vegetable

Foods in Asia China The Chinese make full use of the many kinds of foods produced in china. Most of the basic foods -- rice, wheat, corn, potatoes, meat fish, and vegetables, are well known to us and are used in western cooking. Food is chopped into bite sized pieces and is usually cooked quickly over a hot flame or steamed to retain its flavor and color. These fast-cooking methods are very nutritious, as they preserve the food's natural vitamins. The Chinese are sociable eaters and often eat out with thier family and friends. For lunch, they may snack on rice dumplings stuffed with meat or sweet bean paste or have a filling bowl of rice or noodles with meat and vegetables. In the evening they eat a more substantial meal. This usually consists of several courses; sometimes many dishes are served at the same time and shared by all the people around the table. Japan Traditionally the Japanese diet has consisted of rice, fresh fish, and vegetables. While these remain the staples, Japanese people today enjoy a great variety of locally produced and impoted foods. Fish is one of the nation's favorite foods, providing just under half the animal protein consumed by a average person. A traditional Japanese diet is very healty. It is high in vitamins and vegetables proteins, and low in fat. A typical Japanese meal is made up of many small, artistically arranged dishes. The appearence of the food is important. Japanese food must look as perfect as it tastes. Vietnam The location of Vietnam on the Southeast Asian peninsula accounts for much of the country's identity. This tiny agricultural nation has absorbed Chinese, French, and American influences. Food and family are central to Vietnamese life. There is a Vietnamese saying that "The first pleasure in the world is eating." A major concern is for tectures and appearance. The fresh, clean taste of Vietnamese cooking comes from the use of fresh herbs and seasonings; garlic, lemon and lime. Raw or lightly steamed vegetables and fruit are often used. Becuase foods are never prepared in animal fat nor served with sugary sauces the Vietnamese diet is wholesome and nutritious as well.