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 Countries with the Most Similar Food to Slovenia
Slovenia is at the intersection of the Southern, Central, and Eastern Europe. The country’s food has influences from various parts of the continent. Four of the five countries with the most similar food to Slovenia are predominately Catholic.
- Croatia and Slovenia were once part of Yugoslavia. These countries have extremely similar culture, so their cuisines have many parallels. Both countries share a love for hearty, rustic dishes, seafood, and seasonal vegetables. Dishes like štruklji (rolled dumplings) and potica (nut roll) are eaten in both nations. Pork is the most commonly consumed meat in each country. Istrian prosciutto is quite popular, as well as Ričet, a thick soup with large pieces of pork.
- Austria is another country that was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. They border each other, so it is no surprise they have similar food. Both cuisines feature rich pastries and desserts such as strudels. Pork, in various forms including sausages and schnitzels is very commonly eaten in these countries.
- France and Slovenia place a strong emphasis on bread and pastry, including a variety of artisan breads. They are also famous for their excellent vineyards and produce many grapes. Fresh herbs are commonly used in both cuisines to flavor dishes. Furthermore, dairy products like cheese and yogurt are popular.
- Romania and Slovenia share some Balkan culinary influences, particularly in terms of meat dishes and stews. Both countries commonly eat dishes that use cornmeal. In addition, they make extensive use of sour cream. Stuffed cabbage leaves are also part of their typical diet.
- Portugal, though geographically distant, shares some culinary similarities rooted in their use of local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and cultural influences. Olive oil is extensively used in many of their dishes. Furthermore, both countries boast a rich winemaking tradition. However, the Portuguese tend to eat more seafood.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Slovenia
The Countries with the Least Similar Food to Slovenia
Four of the five countries with the least similar food to Slovenia are located in Africa. The climate in all these countries is significantly warmer, since they are closer to the equator. This affects what type of crops are grown in these nations. Moreover, these countries are much less developed.
- Chad is a landlocked country in the middle of Africa that is mostly Muslim. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains there. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s harsh climate. Beef is the most popular meat, but lamb meat is also often eaten there. Peanuts and sesame seeds are also commonly parts of their cuisine.
- Micronesia is a group of small islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It relies extremely heavily on seafood and tropical fruits as a result. The country’s relative isolation has limited its exposure to foreign influences.
- Central African Republic borders Chad. It is another former French colony in Africa. Cassava and yam are two of the most commonly eaten staple ingredients in the country. Furthermore, taro and bananas make up a much greater share of the diet in Central African Republic than in Slovenia.
- South Sudan is landlocked country in Africa. Cassava is the country’s staple food, however people in South Sudan eat a lot of sorghum as well. Porridge is one of the most popular dishes in the country. Unlike in Slovenia, beef is the most commonly consumed meat there.
- Sierra Leone is predominately Muslim in West Africa. The vast majority of the nation’s diet is made up of starches, especially rice and cassava. The country’s climate is much hotter and gets more rainfall than Slovenia.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Slovenia
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Slovenia’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Chicken, Pork
Fruit: Grape, Apple
Vegetable: Cabbage, Lettuce
Starch: Wheat, Potato
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.