How Climate, Trade and Religion Shape World Cuisines

Cuisine is shaped by the ingredients available locally and those introduced through trade. Climate affects what can be grown or raised in a region, while preservation methods such as smoking, curing and pickling help communities store food for colder seasons. Religion also influences what people eat and how meals are prepared. Islamic and Jewish dietary laws, Hindu vegetarian traditions, Sikh practices and other faith-based customs have helped shape cuisines across the world. Trade and cultural exchange introduce new spices, ingredients and cooking methods. The ancient spice trade spread seasonings such as ginger, turmeric, cinnamon and cardamom, while contact with European missionaries helped inspire Japan's tempura cooking style.

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