The Country Food Similarity Index groups the countries of Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, into the South Mediterranean food region. In addition, food in Egypt, Israel, Pakistan, and Yemen also have many attributes in common with this region. It is one of the 23 world food sub-regions identified by the Index.
South Mediterranean cuisine emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced produce. Tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, zucchini, onions, and various fruits are commonly used. Bread, particularly flatbreads like pita, is a dietary staple. Desserts often feature honey, nuts, and dried fruits. Pastries like baklava are popular in the region. Rice and couscous are also commonly used as side dishes or as bases for main courses. Common herbs include parsley, cilantro, mint, and basil.
South Mediterranean’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Grains & Starchy Roots: 1) Wheat, 2) Potato, 3) Rice
Fruits & Vegetables: 1) Tomato, 2) Watermelon, 3) Onion
Meat & Animal Products: 1) Chicken, 2) Egg, 3) Beef
Why these ingredients are common in this region
Wheat is native to the Fertile Crescent. Many ancient civilizations relied on wheat as a primary crop. Wheat can thrive in the dry, arid conditions that characterize many parts of this area. It is commonly used to produce different types of bread, such as flatbreads like pita and traditional loaves. It’s also a key ingredient in dishes like couscous and bulgur.
The tomato is native to South America and was introduced to Europe after the Spanish colonization of the Americas. It quickly became integrated into Mediterranean cuisine, where the environment for cultivation. Tomatoes can be easily preserved through sun-drying or by making tomato-based sauces and pastes, allowing people to enjoy them even when they are not in season.
Countries in this region tend to have hot and arid climates. Watermelon, with its high water content, thrives in such conditions. The refreshing nature of watermelon makes it a sought-after fruit. During periods of water scarcity, melons are an important fluid source, providing a safe water supply. It is a common sight at family gatherings and festivals.
South Mediterranean’s Most Unique Food Ingredients
(foods consumed significantly more than the world average)
- Wheat
- Potato
- Tomato
- Watermelon
- Grape
- Apple
- Onion
- Date
- Olive
- Cantaloupe
South Mediterranean Food Region’s Most Representative Country
Each country has its own unique culinary traditions. However, according to the Index, Iran is the country with the most representative food in the region. Iranian cuisine has a long history and is known for its unique flavors, aromatic spices, and a wide variety of dishes. There is a significant population of Kurds, Azeris, and Arabs as well as Persians in the country, so it is a country with diverse influences.