International Cuisine (AQA GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition)
Revision Note
Written by: Ruth Brindle
Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor
International cuisine
Italian cuisine
Features and characteristics of cooking
Italian cuisine has an emphasis on fresh ingredients such as:
tomatoes
olive oil
garlic
basil
mozzarella
There are huge regional variations, for example, seafood dishes in the coastal regions compared to hearty dishes created in the north of the country
Many recipes are passed down from generation to generation
Traditional dishes made in Italy include:
spaghetti carbonara
risotto
tiramisu
pizza
Equipment, preparation and cooking methods
Basic equipment which is commonplace in the Italian kitchen might include:
pasta machines
mandolins
mortars and pestles
pizza ovens
Key cooking methods include:
sautéing (for many sauces)
boiling (for pasta)
baking (for bread and pizzas)
grilling (for vegetables and meats)
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Presentation and serving techniques
Food is usually presented in a rustic and simple way
Dishes are garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil
Formal meals can include several courses often paired with appropriate wine choices
Eating patterns
Typical Italian meals consist of several courses:
antipasto (starter)
primo (first course, usually pasta or soup)
secondo (main course, usually meat or fish)
contorno (side dish)
dolce (dessert)
An evening meal is usually lighter than a midday meal
Coffee breaks are an important part of the day
Mexican cuisine
Features and characteristics of cooking
Mexican cuisine has an emphasis on bold flavours such as:
chilli peppers
cilantro (coriander)
lime
garlic
There are huge regional variations but street food is a significant part of Mexican culture
Staple foods include:
beans
corn
rice
avocados
tomatoes
meats
Many recipes are tied with cultural traditions and celebrations
Traditional dishes made in Mexico include:
nachos
burritos
tamales
tacos
churros
Equipment, preparation and cooking methods
Basic equipment which is common place in the Mexican kitchen might include:
stone pestles and mortars
comales (griddles)
tortilla presses
clay pots
Key cooking methods include:
grilling
frying
steaming
slow cooking
Presentation and serving techniques
Mexican dishes are often colourful and visually appealing
Common garnishes include fresh coriander, lime wedges, sliced radishes and crumbled queso fresco (cheese)
During festive occasions, meals can range from street food to elaborate communal spreads
Eating patterns
In Mexico, it is common practise to consume small meals frequently
Typical meal structure includes:
desayuno (breakfast)
comida (main meal around midday)
cena (lighter evening meal)
Snacks, or antojitos, are common throughout the day
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Note that the examples covered here are just two of the many international cuisines that you could choose to study; some other examples that you could learn about include the cuisines of:
Spain
China
India
Japan
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