A Beginner's Guide to Fusion Cooking

From Korean Street Tacos to Thai Clam Chowder, classical ethnic culinary staples have begun to meld together to create a beautiful and exciting new frontier in flavor. Today I am going to take you on a journey through this wonderful world of mixed up foods! While you won't be packing your bags, strap in for a wild ride down the rabbit hole that is Fusion Cuisine while we explore the culinary delights of multiple countries mixing together to create flavors which surprise the taste buds.


What is Fusion Cooking?

At its core, fusion cooking is the practice of combining two or more culture's foods and flavors to create an innovative and unique dish showcasing the different spices and cooking styles. While the origins of fusion cooking can be debated, the current trend in the culinary world began during the 1970's in California. Western cooking met eastern influence and creative dishes started being served to hungry diners looking for a twist on their favorite classic meals. While Californian chef's may want to lay claim to this trend, spice trading has been a staple in economies since the dawn of civilization. Christopher Columbus didn't set sail looking for the Americas, but rather a faster route to the Asian countries for easier access to trading for silks and spices. We, as a species, have always had a desire to experiment with our surroundings. As we have developed and food became more abundant each region of the world found different herbs and spices local to the area to make their meals more palatable.


The Origins of Fusion Cooking

Fusion cuisine, as we know it today, started with a dish called Chinois Chicken Salad created by Wolfgang Puck by utilizing traditional French culinary training and sprinkling in Chinese inspired flavors to elevate his dish. This dish was an instant hit and other chefs started to follow suit, bringing personal tradition to classical training to create new flavors which surprised the tastebuds of restaurant goers.


How Has Fusion Cooking Evolved?

Fusion cooking has come a long way since its introduction into the culinary scene in the 1970s. As innovation in travel and shipping has made the world seem smaller, cultures and traditions have started to meld together across the world. The rise of the internet has created a digital world without borders. A free exchange of ideas and cultures has given access to even more unique recipes blending together cultural traditions and regional flavors to create amazing dishes our ancestors couldn't have ever imagined. One of the biggest trends in fusion cooking today is mixing of traditional and modern food prepartion and cooking techniques.


Fusion Cooking Around the World

I am aware of my bias to local food and cooking techniques, which has blinded me in the past to ideas that weren't present in my current sphere of influence. Fusion cooking is absolutely not limited to the United States! Asian fusion has found new life by combining Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors to create limitless new flavors that find a following worldwide. European chefs are finding influence from Middle Eastern and African flavors to bring their traditionally savory foods spice and excitement. While you may not find an English-Ethiopian inspired pub in your backyard, the joys of traveling and unlimited access to data online an bring you those flavors faster than you think. Want a crazy idea for dinner? The next time you need inspiration, search for French-Turkish inspired meals.


Tips for Fusion Cooking

On to the fun part!  Tips for cooking your own fusion foods.


Start with a Base Cuisine

Start with a base cuisine that you are familiar with and build on it. If you have been cooking French food your entire life, start with those flavors and start to add in different herbs and spices to the mix.


Balance Flavors

When combining different cuisines, it is important to balance the flavors. Each ingredient should complement each other, and the overall flavor should be balanced.  Start by adding a small amount of flavor in the form of different proteins, starches or regional vegetables.  Then add a little dash of herbs and spices.  Remember, you can always add more, but it won't be so easy to take the flavor out.


Be Creative

I have always thought of cooking as an art form.  Fusion cooking is like bringing modern art together with gothic inspirations.  It may not sound right at first, but trying something new is about breaking the mold.  Just because no one else has tried it doesn't mean it is a bad idea.  Don't get me wrong, it might be a bad idea!  Just try it, it is only food.  The worst case scenario is you end up ordering out.


Use Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to flavor and quality, fresh is always better.  A dish can be soured by adding in dried or old ingredients.  When attempting something new, give yourself every opportunity to succeed by always using the freshest possible ingredients.  You don't have to go out of your way and pay 10x more for something if you don't have the money.  Just do your best to get the best possible foods for your dish.


Keep it Simple, Stupid

Simplicity is really the key to most things.  Just because you have a complicated method and recipe to create something doesn't make it better.  Simplify your cooking to make sure you have an easy to repeat and delicious dish you can make time after time.  

Our Final Takeaway

Fusion cooking is a great way to explore and appreciate different cultures and their cuisines. With the tips mentioned above, you can start experimenting with fusion cooking in your own kitchen. Remember to start with a base cuisine, balance flavors, be creative, use fresh ingredients, and keep it simple.


FAQs

  1. What are some popular fusion dishes?

Some of my favorite fusion dishes include Korean tacos, Thai pizza, and sushi burritos.


  1. Is fusion cooking healthy?

Fusion cooking can be healthy, but it depends completely on the ingredients you use and how you prepare your food.  It is no different than traditional cooking


  1. Can fusion cooking be vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, fusion cooking can be vegetarian or vegan. Chefs can combine different plant-based ingredients and flavors to create unique and delicious dishes.


  1. Can I combine any cuisines in fusion cooking?

Yes, you can combine any cuisines in fusion cooking. Let your imagine guide you to whatever unique dishes you want to make.  However, it's important to balance the flavors and make sure each ingredient complements each other.


  1. Can fusion cooking be done at home?

Yes, fusion cooking can be done at home.  I suggest going out sparingly, as cooking at home is just better for your. With the tips mentioned above, you can start experimenting with fusion cooking in your own kitchen.

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Written by Joseph Humenuik

Joe is a 34-year-old father of two boys, with another one on the way. He works as an SEO specialist, helping businesses improve their online visibility and reach. When he's not working, John loves to cook and experiment with new recipes in the kitchen. He's also passionate about home remodeling and enjoys taking on DIY projects to improve his home.
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