Friday 13 April 2012

Sharing Wonderful Appetizers around the World - Food


People love to eat appetizers in every country of the world. In some places, appetizers are recognized as a meal on their own. We are lucky enough to be able to pick and choose from appetizer recipes all over the world and enjoy eating them. You can even use techniques from two different cuisines and do a fusion appetizer. Be creative and use your imagination!

In China, appetizers are called dim sum. This category of recipes covers a wide range of dishes. In some authentic Chinese restaurants, you can order dim sum and choose the dishes you want off of a rolling cart. Dim sum can also be served at parties. You can order it from a catering company, some Chinese restaurants or you can learn to make it yourself. Japanese sushi can also be used as appetizers. There are many different types of sushi and each one can be eaten in one or two bites. Indian satay and other exotic dishes from India can be used as appetizers. They may include seafood, chicken or spicy vegetables.

You may have tried antipasto in an Italian restaurant. Antipasto means "before the meal." Also known as antipasti, it is usually made of dried meats, cheeses, sun dried tomatoes or salads. You could also serve up slices of bread that can be dipped in fresh olive oil or you can set a bowl of delicious seasoned olives on the table.

In Spain, appetizers are served almost everywhere. Known as tapas, these delicious appetizers are made of olives, cheeses, cured meats and many other delicious ingredients. Restaurants known as tapas bars are everywhere. The story goes that King Alfonso X invented tapas after he had to nibble food while drinking wine between meals when he was convalescing. He decreed afterward that all establishments serving wine must also serve food to prevent drunkenness.

In the United Kingdom, appetizers are called starters. France calls appetizers hors d'oeuvres, canapes, or amuse-bouche. In Sweden, the word smorgasbord refers to appetizers. They may be made of herring, salmon or eel as well as cheese, butter and bread. It is traditional in Sweden to eat cold foods, then hot foods and to keep the meal alternating back and forth between the two types of dishes.

In Greece and the Middle East, appetizers are known as "meze." They like deep fried foods served with creamy dips that are based on yogurt. In South and Central America, seafood is one of the choice ingredients. Shrimp is one of the most popular choices for appetizers. Tortillas are often served with dips. In the Caribbean, you can often find coconut chips as appetizers.

When you look at all the recipes from around the world, you can find lots of easy party appetizers to try. There is no reason to spend too much time in the kitchen when you are entertaining. Appetizers can be used as the sole source of party food or they can come before a meal.

Choosing recipes from different food cultures lets you use your favorite ingredients and techniques. You can make many ahead of time and avoid a lot of stress before the party. Your guests will enjoy a wide range of goodies from all over the world. It is like traveling one bite at a time.



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