In the Western world, we tend to perceive the practices, cultures, and diets of the Eastern world as exotic or taboo. Though some of what is heard actually is true, many of the extreme and gruesome stories that are told about the exotic foods in Asia are merely overexaggerated legends. With an open mind and the proper knowledge we can see that it is not as repulsive as it may seem.
Delicacies of the Asian cultures may include things such as jellyfish, beef tendons, and shark’s fin soup. Though these dishes may make any American squeamish, in retrospect, our delicacies in the Western world would make some one of a different culture just as disgusted with our practices. Not many Easterners would be willing to eat things such as cavier, frog’s legs, or pate. The stories of cat and dog meat being eaten in China holds some truth, but not nearly to the extent that the stories make it seem. Cat and dog are served as rare delicacies is some areas, but in the more modern parts of the East it is becoming more commonly illegal to kill cats and dogs for the purpose of food. And once again, our culture serves foods that are equally repulsive, such as haggis and head cheese.
There are some legends that should be laid to rest, for they are aimed to make the Eastern cultures appear to us as barbaric. Live animals are not sacrificed at feasts as the story suggests. Some medicinal uses make particular items acceptable from any view point, once it is realized that these items are not taken or served inhumanely. Bear paw, animal penis, and antlers are a few examples of the exotic foods in Asia that serve a medicinal purpose.
Economic hardships have been the main reason for some of the less palatable dishes that have been served in China. Dishes such as chicken hearts and pig intestines are quite unappealing to anyone, but are a cheap and adequate source of protein when circumstances prevent one from eating the higher quality and better tasting foods. Once again, the cultural differences set things into perspective. Easterners are disgusted with the idea of eating foods like salty beans or sausage.
With the facts, it is not so hard to understand the culture and the reason for such exotic foods in Asia. Just as with anything, tastes are accustomed to the person more than the culture, so what some find appalling, others may find to be delicious. It is important to keep in mind that people tend to exaggerate the stories of inhumane and disgusting easting practices merely because they don’t understand the way of life. Perhaps this may help shed some light on a very misunderstood culture and put an end to the horrendous, widely spread fables.
By: Wendy Pan About the Author:
Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
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