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 Pakistani Food
The five nations with the most similar food to Pakistan are all predominately Muslim countries located in Southwest Asia. They also tend to have dry climates. These countries have a history of culinary exchange and many similar ingredients.
- Yemen and Pakistan have many similarities in terms of food. Biryani, a popular rice dish in Pakistan is extremely similar to Mandi. Kebabs are also very popular in both countries. Samosas, a popular snack in Pakistan, are quite similar to sambusas as well, but they have subtle differences.
- Turkey and Pakistan share some similarities due to historical influences from Central Asia and cultural exchanges during the Ottoman and Mughal eras. Both feature grilled meats like kebabs, rice dishes such as pilaf and pulao, and a strong bread culture with varieties like naan and pide. Yogurt plays a central role in dishes from both cuisines.
- Iran borders Pakistan so these countries have many similarities in their food ingredients. They both rely on flatbreads like Iranian naan and lavash, and Pakistani naan and roti, often used to scoop up stews or grilled dishes. In addition, both nations use a mix of fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavors.
- Bahrain is another yet country where bread and rice are fundamental components of their diets. Various types of flatbreads are widely consumed, often served with stews, dips, or grilled meats. Bahraini cuisine incorporates more seafood due to its coastal location, whereas Pakistani cuisine relies heavily on meats like chicken, lamb, and beef.
- United Arab Emirates is similar to Bahrain. Both Arab countries rely upon a huge amount of immigrants, especially from South Asia. In fact, around 15% of its people are from Pakistan. Machboos, similar to biryani, is a popular dish made with spiced rice, meat, and vegetables. Chicken is the most commonly consumed protein in these nations.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Pakistan
The Least Similar Cuisines to Pakistani Food
Interestingly enough, the five countries with the least similar food to Pakistan are all located in the Pacific Ocean. As a result, they eat significantly more seafood. These countries and tropical so they get significantly more rainfall than the Pakistan as well.
- Micronesia is a group of small islands in the Pacific Ocean. The country’s isolation has limited its exposure to foreign influences. Coconuts are a huge part of their cuisine. Cassava is one of the most commonly eaten starches in Micronesia.
- Solomon Islands is another tropical archipelago. It is located in the South Pacific. Most of its people live near the coast, so seafood is common in the country’s cuisine. Sweet potatoes, yams, and coconuts are all popular ingredients in the food there.
- Papua New Guinea is another country in Melanesia. The country’s diet is much more reliant on sweet potato, yam, and taro than Pakistan. In addition, beef and chicken are more widely consumed in Pakistan.
- Kiribati is an archipelago of small islands located in the Pacific Ocean. Coconuts and saltwater fish are commonly eaten staple foods in Kiribati, unlike in Pakistan, where beef and chicken are more popular.
- Vanuatu is yet another country in the Pacific Ocean on this list. Coconuts and saltwater fish are commonly eaten staple foods in Vanuatu, unlike in Pakistan, where beef and mango is more popular.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Pakistan
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Pakistan’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Chicken, Beef
Fruit: Mango, Orange
Vegetable: Onion, Tomato
Starch: Wheat, Corn
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.