One result of increased global trade and travel is that we all have multi-cultural stomachs. This video examines the multi-cultural origins of many foods and unearths a few surprises. Viewers learn chili isn't Mexican, spaghetti and meatballs is uniquely American, chop suey doesn't exist in China, and sauerkraut was a Chinese invention. They also learn that food serves as a common bond between peoples. If we can enjoy each other's foods, can't we at least live together in peace?
Explore the multi-cultural origins of many foods we take for granted:
- Many of our most common "ethnic foods" are not ethnic at all. Chili isn't Mexican, you won't find chop suey in China and spaghetti and meatballs is uniquely American.
- Chow mein and French toast are more "ethnic" than ethnic recipes.
- Some Europeans view eating corn-on-the-cob as strange.
- Sauerkraut is Chinese. Chinese? It's a long story going back to the building of the Great Wall.
- Chocolate is from Central America and spent most of its life as a drink.
- Not too long ago yogurt was a food only eaten by "health nuts" and Bulgarians.