09 Гру
Try Crocodile, Choose Durian, Become a Vegetarian in Asia
The gastronomic world of Asia is bright and colorful. It is not like European cities. This is a different rhythm of life, worldview, culture, traditions. Residents of this vibrant and often warm part of the world are accustomed to their food and take it for granted. For Europeans, Asian eating habits can be funny or even shocking. The average European stomach, to be honest, is not always ready for that kind of diversity. Eating habits are also unique here. So, let’s figure that out, and ask. No, not from professors, doctors, gurus, but from ordinary travelers. What is the Asian gastronomic world like? Let’s find out from a professional model and gastronomic enthusiast, Hanna Boiko. Due to her work and passion for culinary research, she travels a lot to Asian countries, tasting and cooking. And over there she became a vegetarian.
— How many years have you been traveling, and which Asian countries have you been to?
I’m traveling for about 8 years, and I’ve visited countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Indonesia, Taiwan, India, South Korea, China, and Cambodia.
— What gastronomic features surprised you the most, and in which country was it?
The most exotic thing I’ve ever tried was definitely Durian. It’s a fruit that they call “the king of all fruits”; it has a very pungent smell, but a sweet and creamy taste, though it’s surely not for everyone. The smell can easily put people off trying it. And I also tried crocodile meat. I was expecting something incredible. But it tastes like chicken to me. I didn’t want to try grasshoppers, beetles, or spiders. Although for residents of various Asian countries, this is historically normal, these things are meant for tourists like me.
— Which Asian country’s cuisine do you like best and why? Did individual dishes or the national cuisine as a whole win your heart?
My favorite cuisines so far have to be Thai and Korean. Both are very unique and have a high spice level, but also both incorporate sweet and sour ingredients in their cooking, to make the dishes balanced.
— How do you usually get acquainted with the cuisine of a new country? Do you choose a restaurant, cafe in advance, or go to the local farmers market and try to cook yourself?
