Mediterranean gastronomy: characteristics

Mediterranean gastronomy is one of the most popular thanks to the quality of its recipes and flavors.

This is due to its rooted characteristics from its origin, starting from civilizations as important as the ancient Roman Empire.

Take a look at what is Mediterranean gastronomy, its origin and the characteristics that position it as one of the most relevant cuisines in the world.

What is Mediterranean gastronomy

Mediterranean gastronomy is the type of cuisine belonging to the countries that share as border the basin of the Mediterranean Sea.

Some of the countries that use this gastronomy are Portugal, Italy, Malta, Turkey, Spain, Greece, France and part of Morocco.

This gastronomy has olives, grapes and wheat as part of its essential raw materials, from which products of daily consumption such as olive oil, pasta, bread and wine.

Likewise, there is no shortage of fish, dairy products, vegetables, nuts, meat, eggs, shellfish, fruits, poultry and flour.

Despite the fact that it is the same gastronomy, it is composed of different cultures and flavors. This makes it one of the most diverse in the world.

The role of this gastronomy made it an intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2013.

Origin of Mediterranean gastronomy

The basin of the Mediterranean Sea is a place of interest, known as the cradle of civilization.

This area, which was the beginning of the greatest civilizations and cultures, is also the cradle of one of the most varied cuisines.

The Mediterranean sea was one of the main trade routes, which allowed the exchange of food with other areas of the world.

This constant commercialization of new ingredients required finding the ways to produce them in the territory, as well as the ways in which they can be cooked and consumed.

This is how soon diets of ancient Rome and Germanic peoples were merging, at the same time they were integrating new ingredients from Asia and the New World.

From the East they obtained products such as rice, eggplants, spices, sugar cane and citrus fruits.

On the other hand, from America they obtained food such as potatoes, corn, chili, coffee, tomatoes, peppers, chocolate, pumpkin and beans.

This cultural exchange of several centuries ago consolidated a gastronomy full of flavors, aromas and colors like the Mediterranean.

Characteristics of Mediterranean gastronomy

Mediterranean gastronomy is packed with features and features that distinguish it from others.

First of all, Mediterranean cuisine uses olive oil as the main seasoning to prepare recipes.

An example of this is the marinated meat, poultry and fish. The ingredient to be marinated is taken and seasoned with oil and spices such as rosemary, oregano, pepper, thyme, basil and mint.

On the other hand, sausages are important products in this gastronomy. Ham and salami are usually the most consumed.

As for the fish that are served, the Mediterranean diet has an affinity with the use of blue fish, thanks to its high content in Omega-3.

In addition to meat and fish, Mediterranean cuisine is distinguished by a high consumption of vegetable products.

Regardless of the time of day, you will notice that they are consumed legumes, cereals, bread, fruits, pasta, rice and vegetables.

Fresh and seasonal foods are always used, so that the recipes have intense flavors and aromas. Therefore, processed foods are not common in this kitchen.

Without a doubt, Mediterranean gastronomy is one of the healthiest in the world.

Not only is it because it includes all the food groups that should be consumed, but the foods are full of nutrients needed to provide energy.

What is Mediterranean cuisine?

Mediterranean cuisine consists of the ingredients, recipes and culinary techniques typical of the Mediterranean Sea basin area.

One of the pillars of this cuisine is the consumption of olive oil, wine and bread.

Similarly, it is a healthy and balanced cuisine, characterized by using ingredients from all food groups.

What are the Mediterranean dishes?

Among the Mediterranean dishes you find:
* Pasta
* Gazpacho
* Falafel
* Hummus
* bruschetta
* Paella
* Ratatouille
* Meatballs with lemon sauce
* Musaka
* Risotto

What is the most emblematic thing in Mediterranean gastronomy?

The most emblematic thing in Mediterranean gastronomy is that olive oil, wine and bread are never lacking on their tables.

What do you eat in a Mediterranean restaurant?

In a Mediterranean restaurant you will find dishes prepared with meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, legumes and flour.

Regardless of the dish you choose, you will enjoy recipes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients.