Definition of zapping: frequently switching from one television program to another using the remote control.
Subtopics: Cambodia | China | South Korea | Costa Rica | Cuba | Guatemala | India
Jamaica | Japan | Malaysia | Mexico | Pakistan | Poland | Taiwan | Thailand | Vietnam
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What is Street Food?
Street food is a type of cuisine that is prepared and sold in streets and other public places. It is often sold from market stalls, carts, trucks, or other types of vehicles. Street food is generally ready to be eaten immediately and customers can often see the preparation of the food.
Street food is an important part of the food culture in many countries, offering a variety of unique and traditional dishes. It is known for its sociability, convenience, affordability, and often delicious taste. In many parts of the world, street food is an important means of livelihood for many people.
What are the origins of Street Food?
Street food has origins dating back to antiquity. Its history is closely linked to urbanization, the need for people to eat quickly and affordably, especially in cities and metropolises.
Ancient World: In ancient civilizations like Ancient Rome and Greece, street vendors sold bread and wine to citizens who could not afford or did not have time to cook at home.
Middle Ages: In the Middle Ages in Europe, street food vending was common, with vendors selling pies, waffles, and other ready-to-eat foods.
Asia: In many parts of Asia, the tradition of street food also has a long history. For example, in China, street food was an important part of food culture since the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
Americas: In the New World, Native Americans also sold food in open-air markets before the arrival of Europeans.
However, street food as we know it today – that is, the sale of fast, affordable food on city streets – really took off with industrialization and urbanization in the 19th century, when people had less time to prepare meals at home and needed quick, inexpensive meals during their workday.
How is Street Food consumed around the world?
Street food provides a window into the cultural and culinary diversity of the world. Every country, region, and even city has its own street food specialties that reflect their identity and history.
In Asia, for example, street food is an integral part of daily life. In Thailand, the streets of Bangkok teem with vendors selling Pad Thai, chicken Satay skewers, and grilled seafood. In India, one can taste spicy samosas, pani puri, and chaat on almost every street corner. In Vietnam, pho noodle soup and banh mi sandwiches stuffed with various meats and vegetables are ubiquitous.
In Latin America, street food is also very popular. In Mexico, tacos, tamales, and elote (grilled corn) are sold on practically every street corner. In Argentina, choripán sausage sandwiches are a staple. In Brazil, acarajé bean fritters are much loved.
In Europe, street food varies widely from country to country. In Italy, one can enjoy pizza and arancini (fried rice balls) on the streets. In Germany, currywursts (curry sausages) and pretzels are very common. In France, crepes and ham and cheese sandwiches are classics.
In Africa, street food is also highly diverse. In Ethiopia, injera, a type of flatbread, is often served with various stews. In Morocco, tagines, kebabs, and fish sandwiches are very popular.