FOOD HABITS OF DIFFERENT PEOPLE

(Old Russian Cuisine as Part of Their Culture)

Food mainly reflects the cultural identity of the people.  People from different parts of the world have different styles of eating. Some faith, beliefs and customs are behind it.

In Thailand people do not use fork to eat food. They believe that this can lead to major trouble. One has to use a fork to feed the spoon and then eat from the spoon only.

Japan have a weird habit of eating that is slurping loudly. Making noice while eating noodles is considered a good gesture. It conveys that one is enjoying the food and complimenting the cook. When the food arrives Japanese people politely say "itadakimasu" which means 'I graciously receive.'

In China people never leave the plate empty after eating. If you finish the food and make the plate empty, it is considered that you are leaving the table hungry and wanted to have more food.

In most parts of India people eat food with hands with the firm belief that this is the best way to relish the food that one is consuming. People from many countries find this as a bizarre habit.

It is common in Iran and some Middle East countries, bread which is the main item is commonly served at the centre of the table. Guests share the bread with their hands.

Depending upon which part of England you are in, the term 'dinner' denotes different types of food. It may refer to an afternoon meal, lunch, tea or supper. In some parts dinner is the most important meal of the day whether in the afternoon, evening or late in the night. In England if someone invite you for dinner you must certainly ask the time otherwise it could be an untimely visit.

Before beginning a meal in South Korea make sure that the elders are eating first. When receiving food or drink served to you,  you must hold your bowl or glass with two hands to be polite.

For Russians lunch is their main and heaviest meal, normally between 1.00 - 3.00 pm. Evening time they take simple bread with meat or vegetables alongwith tea. When Russians drink vodka, they drink it plain without adding ice or water, otherwise they think that the purity of the alcohol will be ruined.

K V George