Page 28 - Masala Lite Issue 164 August 2024

strive to create balanced, vibrant dishes that tantalise the taste buds.
Sweet and savoury combinations are prevalent in both traditions. In Latin America,
dishes like mole sauce blend chocolate with savoury spices to create a rich, complex
flavour. Similarly, Asian cuisine often pairs sweet and savoury elements, as seen in
The Culinary Epiphany dishes like hoisin-glazed meats. This blending of flavour profiles is showcased in
fusion dishes such as Korean-style tacos with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Acidity and freshness are key components
Darshan Mehta explores the fusion in both cuisines. Latin American dishes
of Latin and Asian cuisines. frequently incorporate citrus, evident in
ceviche, where raw fish is marinated in
lime juice. Asian cuisines also use acidic
ingredients like rice vinegar and lime, as
Every now and then, in the world of gastronomy, a spark of creativity leads to an ‘Aha in Vietnamese pho. This shared love for
Moment!’ – an unexpected yet profound realisation that bridges culinary traditions acidity and freshness has inspired dishes
from different corners of the world. One of the most exciting and delicious outcomes like ceviche with Asian-inspired ingredients
of such moments is the fusion of Latin and Asian cuisines. This innovative blend has like soy sauce and sesame oil.
given rise to a new culinary landscape where the flavours, techniques, and ingredients
of two rich culinary heritages come together to create something truly extraordinary. Notable Fusion Dishes: The Creation
The realisation of the potential for Latin-Asian fusion has led to the creation of iconic
Shared Ingredients and Techniques: The Foundation
dishes that highlight the best of both worlds, such as:
The ‘aha’ moment of realising the potential for fusing Latin and Asian cuisines often
begins with recognising their shared ingredients and cooking techniques. Both culinary Sushi Burritos: These combine sushi ingredients like raw fish, avocado, and spicy
traditions emphasise fresh, bold flavours and a variety of spices and herbs. mayo, wrapped in seaweed and rice. They offer a convenient and delicious way to
enjoy sushi with a Latin twist.
Rice is a staple in both diets. In Latin America, rice accompanies dishes like arroz
con pollo (rice with chicken) and feijoada (Brazilian black bean stew). In Asia, rice Korean BBQ Tacos: These feature meat like bulgogi, served in tortillas with salsa
is integral to meals, featuring prominently in dishes such as sushi, fried rice, and and guacamole. The result is a tantalising blend of Korean and Mexican flavours.
bibimbap. This commonality makes it easy to blend the cuisines, leading to creations Asian-Inspired Ceviche: Traditional Latin American ceviche is given an Asian makeover
like sushi burritos, which wrap traditional sushi ingredients in a burrito format, or with the addition of ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, creating a
Latin-inspired fried rice with ingredients like chorizo and cilantro. refreshing and tangy dish that highlights the fresh flavours of both cuisines.
Chillies are another shared element. Latin American, particularly Mexican, cuisine, Conclusion: The Culinary Epiphany
is renowned for its extensive use of chillies, ranging from the smoky chipotle to the By recognising and embracing shared ingredients, techniques, and flavour profiles, chefs
fiery habañero. Similarly, Asian cuisines, such as Thai, Korean, and Indian, incorporate create extraordinary culinary experiences, igniting new possibilities for gastronomic
various chillies to add heat and depth to their dishes. This mutual appreciation for exploration and showcasing the magic of ‘aha’ moments. Embracing this potential
spice leads to inventive dishes like Thai-inspired tacos with spicy sriracha mayo or can lead to a more dynamic and flavourful culinary journey, continually surprising
Mexican dishes with an Asian twist, such as sriracha-infused guacamole. and delighting food enthusiasts around the world.
Grilling and barbecuing are beloved techniques in both regions, with Latin American
countries like Argentina and Brazil famous for their asado (barbecue) culture, and Darshan Mehta is the founder and CEO of Carmina,
Asian countries like Japan and Korea known for grilling traditions like yakitori and a Latin cuisine restaurant in Bangkok, and the host of
bulgogi. The fusion of these grilling techniques has given rise to innovative dishes the “Getting to Aha” podcast. He also the founder
like Korean BBQ tacos or yakitori skewers with Latin-inspired marinades. of iResearch, an online insights platform that enables
Flavour Profiles and Culinary Philosophy: The Harmony companies to quickly, easily, and affordably extract
insights from consumers or employees worldwide. He
The culinary ‘aha’ moments that result in Latin-Asian fusion are often about finding can be reached at dm@iresearch.com.
harmony between different flavour profiles and culinary philosophies. Both cuisines

MASAL A LITE ISSUE 164 - AUGUST 2024