The Country Food Similarity Index groups the countries of Cyprus, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland, into the South Europe food region. In addition, although the countries of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, New Zealand, Uruguay, and the United States are not close to the Mediterranean Sea, their food has many attributes in common with this region. It is one of the 23 world food sub-regions identified by the Index.
The South Europe region prioritizes the use of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients in their cuisine. Fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and locally sourced meats and seafood are commonly used. Bread is a common accompaniment to meals. Cheese is also a significant component of many dishes. Herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and parsley are frequently used to add flavor to dishes.
South Europe’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Grains & Starchy Roots: 1) Wheat, 2) Potato, 3) Rice
Fruits & Vegetables: 1) Tomato, 2) Banana, 3) Apple
Meat & Animal Products: 1) Chicken, 2) Pork, 3) Beef
Why these ingredients are common in this region
Wheat has been a staple in the diet of Southern European countries for centuries. Wheat is a versatile grain that can be processed into various forms, allowing for the creation of a wide range of foods. Pasta, bread, pastry, and other wheat-based products are central to the cuisines in the region.
Southern Europe has many regions with favorable conditions for raising cattle. This has led to abundant supplies of milk, the primary raw material for cheese production. Cheese-making offered a way to transform surplus milk into a product that could be stored for longer durations without spoiling.
Olive oil has been a staple in the diet and culture of Southern Europe for millennia. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations. Vast expanses of land are dedicated to olive orchards in the region. As a result, olive often finds its way into the food of this region.
South Europe’s Most Unique Food Ingredients
(foods consumed significantly more than the world average)
- Wheat
- Potato
- Cheese
- Beef
- Chicken
- Pork
- Yogurt
- Oat
- Saltwater Fish
- Olive Oil
South Europe Food Region’s Most Representative Country
While each country in South Europe has its own unique culinary traditions, according to the Index, France has the most representative food in the region. French cuisine is known for its diversity and range of dishes. The country’s culinary techniques and ingredients have had a significant impact on many cuisines in the region.
