The Country Food Similarity Index is a statistically-based attempt to quantify how similar the food in one country is relative to another. By comparing the weight of raw food ingredients used in each country, a score is assigned that reflects the degree of similarity between the respective countries. The methodology is exactly the same for each country studied.
The Most Similar Cuisines to Paraguayan Food
Unlike other countries in Latin America, cassava is the most commonly consumed starch in Paraguay, so it is unique. Still, the five countries with the most similar food to Paraguay are located in South America. With the exception of Brazil, these countries were all once colonized by Spain before becoming independent. In addition, all of these countries have a tropical climate.
- Brazil is located to the north of Paraguay. The Brazilian churrasco and Paraguayan asado both feature grilled meats, especially beef. The meats are often seasoned with salt and sometimes served with flavorful sauces. Furthermore, Brazil is another country in South America that commonly eats cassava, especially in dishes like Farofa and Escondidinho.
- Colombia does not border Paraguay, but they have some culinary similarities. Both countries love to eat empanadas, savory pastries typically filled with ingredients like ground meat, potatoes, and spices. However, rice and potatoes are more commonly consumed starches in Colombia.
- Mexico is in North America, but the two countries were both once Spanish colonies. Corn is the most common ingredient in Mexican cuisine, since it originated there. However, Paraguayans eat it commonly as well. Although chipa is usually made with cassava it can also be made with corn. In addition, their cuisines include many stews and soups.
- Venezuela‘s cuisine is like Colombia’s. In many ways, arepas resemble Paraguayan chipa in being dough-based bread that are commonly flavored by cheese. However, Venezuela’s diet has more tropical fruits like bananas and pineapples.
- Bolivia is another landlocked country in South America that has many indigenous influences. In both countries cassava is enjoyed in various forms. They also tend to eat a lot of beef. However, potatoes are more commonly eaten in Bolivia.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Paraguay
Koapnoair Koakihr
The Least Similar Cuisines to Paraguayan Food
All five of the countries with the least similar food are located on tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean. In contrast to landlocked Paraguay, these countries consume and lot of seafood. Furthermore, coconuts are a much bigger part of their diet.
- Kiribati is an archipelago in the Pacific. The country’s diet is centered around seafood, coconuts, and breadfruit. Corn and beef are not commonly eaten there, so its ingredients differ significantly from Paraguayan food.
- Vanuatu is a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Unlike in Paraguay, taro and rice are rice are the two most common ingredients in Vanuatu’s food. Like other countries on this list, saltwater fish and coconuts are also commonly eaten there.
- Solomon Islands is another Melanesian archipelago. Most of its people live near the coast, so saltwater fish is the most commonly eaten meat in the country’s cuisine. Sweet potatoes, yams, and rice are three of the nation’s most popular staples.
- Micronesia is another group of small islands in the Pacific. The country’s isolation has limited its exposure to foreign influences. Coconuts are an important part of their cuisine. In addition, rice is the most commonly eaten grain in the country.
- Papua New Guinea is another Melanesian country on this list. Its cuisine often revolves around root vegetables like yams and taro. The culinary practices in Papua New Guinea vary widely across its numerous tribes, each with its own traditional cooking.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Paraguay
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Paraguay’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Beef, Egg
Fruit: Orange, Watermelon
Vegetable: Tomato, Onion
Starch: Cassava, Corn
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.
Countries with the Most Similar Food to Lithuania
Cepelinai Šakotis
The Most Similar Cuisines to Lithuanian Food
Lithuanian cuisine can be considered a blend of Baltic, Slavic and Germanic influences. Lithuania is located at the crossroads of Northern, Eastern and Central Europe, and throughout its history, it has been influenced by its neighboring countries. Appropriately, the analysis shows that three of the five countries with the most similar food are Slavic, while the other two are Baltic, except for Estonia, which speaks a Finnic language.
1. Poland and Lithuania share a rich culinary heritage, influenced by their historical connections and geographical proximity. Both countries boast delicious traditional dishes, often prepared with a Catholic touch. Additionally, their cuisines belong to the same Balto-Slavic flavor palette. When it comes to food, both nations offer a delightful array of dishes. However, they each have their own distinct culinary specialties due to their unique historical backgrounds. For example, the Lithuanian kibinai is extremely similar to Poland’s famed pierogi. Furthermore, both countries also have a particular fondness for dairy products, like cheese and yogurt.
2. Latvia and Lithuania have incredibly similar languages, so it’s no wonder their cultures are so similar. Thus, it leads to the fact their diets are also alike too. Both countries cherish their traditional dishes, which often feature ingredients sourced from their lush landscapes. Furthermore, their culinary traditions are deeply influenced by their shared Balto-Slavic heritage. When exploring Latvian and Lithuanian cuisine, you’ll find an appreciation for hearty bread, potatoes, and dairy products. In fact, savoury meat pies like Lithuanian kibinai or Latvian spekrauši are common in both countries as well.
3. Czechia and Lithuania may not border each other, but they share remarkable similarities in their gastronomic traditions. Both nations have a deep appreciation for dairy products, crafting creamy cheeses and luscious creams. Moreover, their culinary heritage features special delicacies that bring people together. For instance, the Czech trdelnik finds a kindred spirit in the Lithuanian šakotis, both being delightful, spiral-shaped pastries that showcase the artistry of their bakers. This culinary bond highlights the shared love for delectable creations that transcend borders.
4. Estonia, much like Lithuania, is a former Soviet country with a unique culinary identity influenced by its surroundings. Both nations, nestled by the Baltic Sea, share a love for fresh seafood and the flavors of the coastal region. Their culinary traditions have been enriched by their historical ties and geographical location, resulting in a delightful array of dishes that capture the essence of the Baltic.
5. Ukraine and Lithuania share a culinary heritage deeply rooted in their historical connections and geographical proximity. These two nations, once united, have a rich tradition of dishes influenced by their shared Balto-Slavic roots. When it comes to food, both countries boast a delectable array of culinary treasures that reflect their cultural bond. From hearty pierogi and dumplings to flavorful sausages, their cuisines celebrate a love for wholesome ingredients and traditional cooking methods. This gastronomic connection is a testament to the enduring ties that link Ukrainian and Lithuanian kitchens.