Exotic Foods

Fish & Chips: UK's National Dish

Often considered the national dish of the UK, fish & chips originated in England in the 19th century. It is a hot dish consisting of battered and fried fish, and served with chips, a cultural and culinary symbol that's instantly recognised as British globally. The dish has gained wide popularity as a common takeaway food in many countries.

The British government safeguarded the supply of fish and chips during World War I and World War II. It was one of the few foods that was not subjected to rationing during the wars, which made the dish widely popular. The tradition of eating fish battered and fried in oil may have been introduced to Britain by the Spanish and Portuguese Jews, who had lived in the Netherlands prior to settling in the country.

The earliest known outlets of fish and chips were set up in London in the 1860s by Eastern European Jewish immigrants Joseph Malin and John Lees in Mossley, Lancashire. Although fish and chips is still a highly popular British dish and also an international favourite, it's not necessarily always the most popular dish that Britons enjoy.

Video Link: Fish & Chips

(Video: Courtesy Cooking Foodie)

Indian Khichdi's Cultural Significance

India does not have an official national dish, because of its diverse cultures, cuisines and ethnic population. However, khichdi is often considered to be India's national dish, because of its cultural significance, Khichdi has been an integral part of Indian cuisine for a long time. Easy to make with only a few ingredients, this simple dish is healthy and easy to digest. Khichdi is a wholesome meal that provides full nourishment to the body.

Twelve Popular Types of Khichdi in India:

They are Gujarati Khichdi and Kadhi, Gujarat; Pongal, Tamil Nadu; Keema Khichdi, Andhra Pradesh; Bihari Khichdi, Bihar; Bajra Khichdi, Rajasthan; Kichuri, West Bengal, Bisi Bele Bhat, Karnataka; Mong Khetchir, Kashmir; Valachi Khichdi, Maharashtra; Amla Khichdi, Uttar Pradesh; Garhwal Khichdi, Uttarakhand; and Khechudi, Odisha.

These different types of Khichdi are from various States in India, and each type has a unique taste and flavour.

Video Link: Khichdi 

(Video: Courtesy Rajshri Food)