Comprising South-eastern regions of Asia, Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring islands, Australasia inhabits a significant portion of our southern hemisphere. It includes one of the most varying collections of cultures, countries and cuisines. From the homegrown, earthy flavours of native Australian cuisine to Southeast Asia’s zesty, spicy and fresh tastes, explore this spice route starting at the top. Using a wide range of spices, flavours, and textures, Southeast Asian cuisine is all about stimulating the senses. Spanning across the subcontinent, dishes in this region feature diverse flavours, aroma, and cooking techniques that transfer and differ throughout, with no two dishes the same.
Inspired by the use of rice and noodles from the east and rich, spiced curries from the West, this region’s cuisine is a product of its rich history.
It combines borrowed techniques and cooking styles with natural produce native to its warm, humid environment. However, one of the most influential culinary introductions to this cuisine was the 16th-century Portuguese settlers bringing the chilli and tamarind from the Americas.
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Malaysia’s geographical position and proximity to so many different countries and regions depicts a culturally diverse and assorted nation. With a varied mix of three major ethnic groups, four languages, and three primary religions, this unique portion of the world has significantly influenced all facets but especially with its food! Heavily grounded in Southeast Asia’s rich spice culture, Malaysian food is a refreshing combination of colour, texture, and flavour.
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Known until 1939 as the region of Siam and now as the Kingdom of Southeast Asia, Thailand occupies Southeast Asia’s central and south region. With many influences from China and India, Thailand is one of the most culturally independent regions of this pocket of the world with its language, cuisine, religious beliefs and socio-cultural scenes like literature, music, painting and many handicrafts. A significant part of this cultural identity is, of course, its food. Wonderfully intense and singing with flavour, Thai food is the cuisine that makes your tastebuds dance. Balanced, fresh and super moreish.
Because food is our common language, choose yours …
