Who doesn’t love their fries with a little tomato ketchup on the side? And did you know that Hellman’s Mayonnaise is the top condiment most used in the USA? Tostitos salsa comes in second place, and ketchup comes a strong third. But have you ever wondered what condiments are used around the world and how they vary from our favourites? Let’s take a peek at the coolest international condiments and see how different they can be from country to country.
5 Best Condiments That Complete Any Meal
China
Chinese condiments are completely different from the ones we use in the US. You’ll find everything from hoisin sauce to Szechuan sauce and XO sauce to plum sauce. A lot of their sauces are used in stir-fries to add flavour to the dish, but condiments such as hoisin sauce are used for dipping, as is a plum sauce. No ketchup insight here. If you fancy adopting some of these flavours into your home meals why not buy high-quality condiments online?
Japan
There are many condiments used in Japan, from sweet to sour, that add intense flavours to even the blandest of foods. Soy sauce is, of course, one of the most popular, and it dates all the way back to the 1600s when Buddhist monks first introduced it.
The Japanese use a lot of vinegar, which they call Su. This is used for dipping when eating sushi and also to add delicious flavours to soups and stews. And of course, we can’t leave miso off the list when talking about Japanese condiments. You can get red, white and mixed miso and it comes in a thick paste. It will then be added to soup stocks, sauces, and spreads for a traditional salty flavour.
South America
In South America, it’s all about the chimichurri and habanero sauce. Chimichurri is a super spicy condiment from Argentina that is used on a lot of grilled meats. Its main ingredient is parsley, and it also includes garlic, oregano, and red pepper. Its consistency is like pesto, and it’s delicious. They also love their habanero sauces, which are extremely hot and intensely spicy.
Australia
Can you guess? Yes, their favourite condiment is of course vegemite. We’ll leave it at that. It’s like marmite. Either you love it, or you hate it!
Thailand
Popular condiments in Thailand include fish sauce and sweet chilli sauce. Fish sauce is made from anchovies, salt, and water and is used in many Asian recipes. It has an intense flavour so always use sparingly. And sweet chilli sauce is used on lots of chicken, as a dipping sauce and even in sandwiches. Be warned, it’s hotter than mayo and intensely sweet.
The Middle East and North Africa
One of the most popular condiments used in the Middle East and North Africa is harissa. It adds a great kick to dishes and is generally a mix of hot chilli peppers, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, and mint. It can be used to add flavour and spice to soups and stews and also to marinate meats. It’s great for dipping bread into with some added olive oil, and it can even be spread on pizza.
Exploring the diverse world of condiments offers a delicious glimpse into global culinary traditions that go far beyond the familiar favorites like ketchup and mayonnaise. From the intense and flavorful sauces of China and Japan to the spicy delights of South America and Thailand, each region brings its own unique ingredients and preparation methods that reflect local tastes and culinary histories.
In China, condiments like hoisin and plum sauce transform simple dishes with their deep, complex flavors, demonstrating the art of balance in Chinese cuisine. Japan’s commitment to enhancing the natural flavors of food can be seen in its use of miso and soy sauce, essential elements in Japanese cooking that date back centuries. South America’s vibrant chimichurri and fiery habanero sauce encapsulate the spirit and zest of its rich culinary culture, adding a burst of flavor to traditional dishes.
Australia’s Vegemite, a love-it-or-hate-it spread, and Thailand’s versatile fish sauce and sweet chili sauce showcase how integral condiments are to national identities and everyday meals. In the Middle East and North Africa, harissa stands out as a testament to the region’s love for robust, spicy foods, enhancing everything from street food to gourmet dishes with its fiery yet aromatic blend.
As we appreciate these condiments from around the world, we not only add new flavors to our palette but also connect with the cultures and histories they represent. Whether it’s dipping, spreading, marinating, or simply seasoning, these condiments prove that great flavor knows no boundaries. So, the next time you sit down to eat, consider reaching for a condiment that might just transport your taste buds to another part of the world, making every meal an opportunity for adventure and exploration.
