Why It’s Time to Rethink the Idea That Cultural Traditions Regarding Food Are Static and Inflexible

The Infamous “Cultural Traditions” and Food

Food and cultural traditions have always gone hand in hand. Cultural traditions with regard to food are often viewed as static and inflexible, meaning they are resistant to change. However, as we move towards a more globalized world, it is time to reconsider the notion of cultural traditions when it comes to food.

Change as the Only Constant

Our approach to food and cultural traditions have evolved greatly since the advent of the internet, and the global marketplace. It’s much easier to access ingredients from around the world, and it has meant we can learn about and try different cuisines from across the globe. But while exposure to different culinary cultures has made us more open-minded, some cultural traditions have remained rigid.

For example, many people would have a particular image of what Indian food looks and tastes like, often consisting of curry and naan bread. This is the oxymoron we’re challenging: while these traditional dishes have certainly not been dumbed down, they ignore the vibrant regional food variety that exists within Indian cuisine.

It’s essential to consider that, historically, some traditional foods may have been created out of necessity since certain ingredients may have been locally grown and the surplus may not have been enough for everyone to consume. Hence, cultural traditions revolving around food could have been created out of a need for healthy and resourceful eating, but that doesn’t mean the concept is inflexible.

Towards a More Inclusive Food Culture

Many people still view traditional dishes as a relic from the past rather than the potential for inclusivity in the present. The incorporation of global ingredients, techniques, and cooking styles should be seen as a way of revitalizing cultural food traditions.

What we should be aiming for is a more inclusive food culture that is open to experimentation and giving forgotten dishes a new lease of life, making it accessible to people from all walks of life. Ultimately, our attitude towards cultural food traditions should be based on respecting the past, while also being progressive and open to growth and change.

The Final Verdict

The world is becoming smaller, and our food culture needs to reflect that. As we move towards a more globalized world, it’s essential to acknowledge the potential for growth and progression within our traditional foods and customs.

Change is inevitable, and people’s eating habits will evolve, but cultural tradition should still be valued as a part of our past. Let us embrace all the delicious wonders of the world and re-think traditional approaches to food culture. Let’s be experimental, inclusive, and continue to move forward with an open mind and a full stomach.