Question 1: Name three key ingredients commonly used in Italian cuisine and explain how they contribute to the characteristic flavours.

Answer: Common ingredients include tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Tomatoes provide a rich, tangy base; garlic adds a pungent, savory flavour; basil offers a sweet, aromatic note that defines many Italian dishes.

Question 2: Describe a traditional Japanese meal and identify at least two elements that reflect Japanese culinary principles.

Answer: A traditional Japanese meal may include sushi, miso soup, and steamed rice. Elements reflecting Japanese principles include emphasis on fresh, minimally processed ingredients and balanced presentation focusing on aesthetics and nutrition.

Question 3: List four characteristic features of Indian cuisine and explain how they influence taste and presentation.

Answer: Features include the use of spices (like turmeric, cumin), vibrant colours, diverse cooking methods, and a variety of vegetarian options. These features create bold flavours, visually appealing dishes, and diverse textures.

Question 4: Explain how cultural factors influence food choices within a specific cuisine of your choice.

Answer: For example, in Middle Eastern cuisine, cultural factors such as religious dietary laws (e.g., halal), social customs, and traditional celebrations influence ingredient selection, meal preparation, and dish types, promoting communal eating and specific ingredients.

Question 5: Compare the cooking methods commonly used in Chinese cuisine with those used in French cuisine.

Answer: Chinese cuisine often employs stir-frying, steaming, and boiling, which are quick and preserve nutrients. French cuisine uses techniques like roasting, braising, and sautéing, often involving longer cooking times to develop complex flavours.

Question 6: Sketch a simple plate layout for a traditional Spanish tapas dish, including at least three different items. Label the items.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a large plate or platter with small portions of items such as patatas bravas, chorizo slices, and marinated olives arranged attractively around the plate. Labels should identify each item clearly.

Question 7: Describe how the use of spices differs between Indian and Mexican cuisines and provide examples of each.

Answer: Indian cuisine commonly uses a variety of ground spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander to create complex, layered flavours. Mexican cuisine often uses spices such as chili powder and cumin, focusing on bold, piquant tastes with fresh herbs like cilantro.

Question 8: Identify two health benefits and two potential health concerns associated with high consumption of Italian pasta dishes.

Answer: Benefits include providing energy from carbohydrates and potential sources of fibre if made with wholegrain. Concerns include high calorie content and potential excessive intake of refined carbs, which can affect blood sugar levels.

Question 9: Draw a simple diagram of a typical bowl of Vietnamese pho, showing the main ingredients and garnishes. Label each part with their names.

Answer: A correct diagram would depict a bowl with noodles at the base, slices of beef or chicken, herbs like basil and coriander, lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced chilli. Labels should clearly identify each component.

Question 10: Explain how regional climate influences the ingredients used in a specific cuisine of your choice.

Answer: In Scandinavian cuisine, cold climates lead to the use of preserved foods like pickled vegetables, smoked fish, and root vegetables, which are suitable for long storage and provide nourishment during harsh winters.