Unique cooking techniques from around the world
Culinary arts, one of the oldest human expressions, showcase an array of food preparation methods, ranging from the straightforward to the unconventional. Exploring different cultures involves embracing new cuisines and delving into the intricate techniques employed by local chefs. Here, we present five fascinating cooking methods from diverse corners of the globe. Check them out!
Preparing food in a chiminea
Originating in Mexico, the chiminea has become a popular addition to many backyard and patio settings. Its roots trace back to the 1600s when Spanish explorers introduced the concept to the New World. The size and design of a chiminea vary based on its intended use, with some serving as compact warming fires akin to campfires.
Infusing flavor with wood and tea
Chinese cuisine embraces smoking as a traditional cooking method rooted in survival practices. Smoking dehydrates food, eliminating moisture, bacteria, and extending shelf life. Presently, raw smoking is evident in dishes like camphor wood-smoked mushrooms and paprika, while another technique involves smoking cooked food for enhanced flavor, as seen in the popular smoked baked beans and potatoes.
Imu - The earthen oven
Hawaiian culinary tradition involves roasting and steaming food in an imu, an earthen oven. To barbecue in an imu, Hawaiians ignite a fire, placing fist-sized stones over the wood. The heated rocks, covered with leaves, prevent direct food contact and burning. Offerings like sweet potatoes and taro are often wrapped and smoked in this unique oven.
Steaming in banana leaves
In India, various dishes are steamed in banana leaves, for instance patra, elayappam pathrode, modak, idli, etc. In Thailand, savoury and sweet dish steamed in banana leaves include khao dome (coconut sticky rice). The process begins with the careful selection of fresh banana leaves, followed by softening them by passing over an open flame or soaking them in hot water.
Baking in bamboo
In Thai culinary tradition, a distinctive method involves using natural materials such as bamboo to craft flavorful dishes. Khao laam, a culinary gem, exemplifies this practice by ingeniously utilizing bamboo as both a vessel and a flavor enhancer. Hollow bamboo sticks are skillfully filled with a delightful combination of sticky rice, palm sugar, and coconut milk.
