Question 1: Describe three key characteristics of Italian cuisine. Include ingredients, typical dishes, and cooking methods.

Answer: Italian cuisine often features ingredients such as tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil. Typical dishes include pasta, pizza, and risotto. Cooking methods frequently involve boiling, baking, and sautéing.

Question 2: Explain two reasons why someone might choose to eat Japanese cuisine over other cuisines.

Answer: Someone might choose Japanese cuisine for its emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and its variety of dishes such as sushi and tempura, which offer different textures and flavors.

Question 3: Identify and describe two common ingredients used in Indian cuisine.

Answer: Common ingredients include spices like turmeric and cumin, which add flavor and color, and lentils, used in dishes such as dal for protein and texture.

Question 4: Draw a simple sketch of a traditional Mexican dish, such as tacos. Include the main components that should be present in your drawing.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a small folded tortilla filled with ingredients like seasoned meat or beans, topped with shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa.

Question 5: Compare the use of spices in Thai cuisine with that in Middle Eastern cuisine. Highlight at least two differences.

Answer: Thai cuisine uses spices like lemongrass and chili for heat and aroma, often in soups and curries. Middle Eastern cuisine uses spices like cinnamon and sumac, which are milder and used in stews and rice dishes.

Question 6: Discuss how cultural factors influence the choice of cuisine in a particular country or region.

Answer: Cultural factors such as religious beliefs, historical trade routes, and traditional practices influence cuisine. For example, in India, vegetarianism is common due to religious beliefs, affecting the types of dishes prepared.

Question 7: Identify and explain two health considerations that might influence a person's choice of a Japanese diet.

Answer: Japanese diets are often low in saturated fats and high in fish, which is beneficial for heart health. They also include a variety of vegetables and rice, contributing to a balanced diet.

Question 8: Sketch a plate layout for a typical French meal, including main course, side, and dessert. Label each component.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a plate divided into sections: one for the main protein (e.g., steak), a section for vegetables or salad, and a small area for dessert (e.g., fruit tart). Labels should identify each component clearly.

Question 9: Explain how the climate of a country can influence its traditional cuisine, providing an example.

Answer: Climate affects local ingredients and cooking methods. For example, colder regions like Scandinavia use preserved foods like smoked fish and cured meats to store food during long winters.

Question 10: Describe two ways in which globalization has affected the cuisines of the UK.

Answer: Globalization has introduced a wide variety of international ingredients and dishes to the UK, such as sushi and curry, making the cuisine more diverse. It has also led to the fusion of different culinary traditions.