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 Chilean Food
Chilean food has had many contributions from various immigrant communities, including the Spaniards, Germans, Italians, and Brits. This diverse culinary heritage results in a unique food culture. Interestingly enough, four of the five countries with the most similar food are all located in Europe. These nations are all predominately Christian and have a high level of development.
- United Kingdom and Chile have extremely similar food ingredients. Chile’s immigrants from Britain have had a big impact on their society. In fact, one custom taken from the British is afternoon tea. Both cuisines feature hearty, savory pies—Chilean empanadas and British meat pies. Chicken is the most commonly eaten meat in both countries. Furthermore, apple and bananas are their most commonly eaten fruits.
- France is another Western European country on this list. Both these countries enjoy croissants and other baked goods. In addition, Chile and France have many vineyards. Chicken is the most popular meat in both countries. However, seafood is also commonly eaten in these nations, since they both have a lot of coastline.
- Canada‘s food, much like Chile’s, is a mosaic of various European influences. Hearty soups and stews are staples of both countries. The multicultural urban centers in Canada, mirror Santiago’s diverse food scene, where international flavors blend seamlessly with local traditions.
- Croatia and Chile not only have a large amount of coastline, but they also have similar food ingredients. Due to Italian influence in both countries, risotto is a commonly eaten dish. The shared Mediterranean influence in Croatian cuisine also brings out similarities in the use of olives, fresh vegetables, and wine.
- Malta, with its rich Mediterranean influences, shares similarities with Chilean food in its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a strong emphasis on seafood. Traditional Maltese dishes like lampuki pie and fish soup have counterparts in Chile. Both cuisines also love to eat savory pastries. Both countries are influenced by Italian and Spanish cuisine.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Chile
The Least Similar Cuisines to Chilean Food
Four of the five countries with the least similar food to Chile are located in Africa. Moreover, these countries are much less wealthy than Chile. These countries also tend to have hotter climates on average than Chile.
- Chad is a predominately Muslim country that borders the Sahara Desert. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains in the country. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s harsh climate. It consumes significantly less meat than Chile.
- South Sudan is another country that borders Sudan. Cassava is the staple food, however the country eats its share of sorghum as well. Porridge is one of the most popular dishes in the country, in contrast to Chile.
- Central African Republic is another former French colony on this list. It is located to the between Chad and South Sudan. Cassava, yam, and taro are three of the most commonly eaten staple ingredients in the country.
- Sierra Leone is a former British colony in Africa that is predominately Muslim. The vast majority of the nation’s diet is made up of starches, especially rice and cassava. However, Chile tends to eat more wheat and potato products.
- Micronesia also borders the South Pacific Ocean, but their cuisine is significantly different. The country relies heavily on seafood, tropical fruits, and root crops. Its relative isolation has limited its exposure to foreign influences on its typical diet.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Chile
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Chile’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Chicken, Beef
Fruit: Apple, Banana
Vegetable: Onion, Carrot
Starch: Wheat, Potato
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.