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 Ecuadorian Food
Food in Ecuador is influenced by a combination of indigenous, Spanish, and African cuisines. In addition, these nations all have Spanish as one of their official languages. They also are predominately Catholic as well. Furthermore, the majority of the land in these countries has a tropical climate.
- Colombia is to the northeast of Ecuador. These nations share a passion for seafood. Ceviche, a dish where raw fish is marinated in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers, is a favorite in both nations. In Ecuador, ceviche often includes plantain chips and popcorn, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Panama was once part of Colombia. These countries have a tradition of hearty soups and stews. Rice is the most commonly eaten grain in these nations as well. Fried plantains, known as patacones or tostones, are mainstays in the cuisine of both Panama and Ecuador.
- Venezuela were once part of the same country before splitting up. These countries use many of the same ingredients such as rice and beans. Additionally, chicken and chili peppers play significant roles in both countries’ cuisines. However, corn is more commonly consumed in Venezuela than in Ecuador.
- Costa Rica is another country that borders the Pacific Ocean on this list. Both countries commonly feature rice and beans in their cuisines. Chicken is the most popular meat in these countries. In addition, these countries have a wide variety of tropical fruits, which are often incorporated into their various dishes.
- Bolivia and Ecuador have a strong indigenous influence on their cuisine, so they traditionally eat staples like potatoes, corn, and legumes. Ecuadorian llapingachos, potato patties stuffed with cheese, closely resemble Bolivia’s papas rellenas. However, Bolivians have less rice and seafood in their diet, since it is landlocked.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Ecuador
The Least Similar Cuisines to Ecuadorian Food
The five countries with the least similar food to Ecuador are all located in Africa. All five countries are landlocked as well. However, relatively few countries have a diet that is extremely different from Ecuador’s, since the country has a wide range of influences.
- Chad is a predominately Muslim country that was once a French colony in Africa. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains in the country. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s harsh climate. Popular dishes include sesame soup and fried dough balls.
- South Sudan is another country that borders Sudan. Cassava is its staple food, however the country eats a lot of sorghum as well. Porridge is one of the most popular dishes in the country. In addition, South Sudanese cuisine features a variety of sauces and condiments made with peanuts and sesame seed, unlike Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Niger is a mostly Muslim country in Africa. It has an extremely hot and dry climate, so it is mostly desert. Its two most common staple foods are millet and sorghum. Some traditional dishes in Niger include tuwo, a porridge made from millet or sorghum, and dambunama.
- Central African Republic, like Chad and Niger, was once a colony of France, before becoming independent. It is located between Chad and South Sudan. Cassava and yam are two of the most commonly eaten ingredients in the country.
- Burundi is located in the Great Lakes region of Africa. Its diet is in large part based on cassava, sweet potatoes, and plantains. Furthermore, freshwater fish is the country’s biggest source of meat, in contrast to Ecuador, where chicken and beef are more widespread.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Ecuador
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Ecuador’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Chicken, Beef
Fruit: Banana, Orange
Vegetable: Onion, Tomato
Starch: Rice, Wheat
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.
