The Country Food Similarity Index groups the countries of China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, and Taiwan into the East Asia food region. Malaysia is also grouped into the region, although it is traditionally a part of Southeast Asia. It is one of the 23 world food sub-regions identified by the Index.
Rice and wheat are the two most commonly eaten grains in East Asia. Steamed rice, fried rice, and rice noodles are common in the region. Furthermore noodles made of wheat are also common. Soy sauce is widely used in East Asian cuisines to add umami flavor to their dishes. Vegetables are often a central focus in East Asian cuisines. Stir-fried, steamed, pickled, or used in soups, vegetables contribute to the balance and variety of meals.
East Asia’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Grains & Starchy Roots: 1) Rice, 2) Wheat, 3) Corn
Fruits & Vegetables: 1) Cabbage, 2) Onion, 3) Apple
Meat & Animal Products: 1) Saltwater Fish, 2) Chicken, 3) Pork
Why these ingredients are common in this region
Rice cultivation has deep historical roots in East Asia. The practice of cultivating and consuming rice dates back thousands of years. The climate in many East Asian countries is conducive to rice cultivation since they tend to get a lot of rainfall.
East Asian countries are located near coastlines or have access to seas and oceans. This geographical proximity makes saltwater fish abundant and easily accessible. Coastal communities, in particular, tend to eat a lot of saltwater fish and other seafood.
Cabbage is a hardy and adaptable crop that can grow in temperate climates. It is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw in salads, pickled, stir-fried, or boiled. Cabbage has a relatively long shelf life compared to some other vegetables as well.
East Asia’s Most Unique Food Ingredients
(foods consumed significantly more than the world average)
- Rice
- Saltwater Fish
- Corn
- Wheat
- Cabbage
- Chicken
- Pork
- Soybean
- Soybean Oil
- Egg
East Asia Food Region’s Most Representative Country
East Asian food can be quite diverse. Each region has its unique culinary traditions. However, according to the Index, Japan is the country with the most representative food in the region. It is located close to China, Taiwan, and Korea.
