The Wide World of Appetizers

Appetizers are popular all over the world. In fact, in some countries appetizers can make up a style of eating. What this means, of course is that we can take appetizer recipes from all over the world, and enjoy them all. You can even combine cuisines and make fusion appetizers. It is easy to use your imagination when you make appetizers.

In China, appetizers are called dim sum. This category of recipes covers a wide range of dishes. In some authentic Chinese restaurants, you can order dim sum and choose the dishes you want off of a rolling cart. Dim sum can also be served at parties. You can order it from a catering company, some Chinese restaurants or you can learn to make it yourself. Japanese sushi can also be used as appetizers. There are many different types of sushi and each one can be eaten in one or two bites. Indian satay and other exotic dishes from India can be used as appetizers. They may include seafood, chicken or spicy vegetables.

Italian appetizers fall under the heading of antipasto. This means “before the meal.” Antipasto or antipasti usually consists of cheeses, dried meats, salads or sun dried tomatoes. You can also find bread dipped in olive oil or olives on the table before an Italian meal.

Tapas is the name for appetizers in Spain. They have truly elevated appetizers into an art form in this country. Tapas bars are very popular for their fabulous appetizers that are served with their alcoholic beverages. Some people even eat these appetizers as a full meal. It is said that tapas were developed when King Alfonso X made a law that wine must be served with food to prevent drunkenness.

Appetizers are known by many names. In the United Kingdom, they are known as starters. In France, you can get amuse-bouche, hors d’oeuvres or canaps. In Sweden, it is smorgasbord. Swedish appetizers may include eel, herring, or salmon as frequently as they may include butter, bread, and cheese. In fact, traditional Swedish smorgasbord serves you cold foods and then hot foods, and then cold foods and so on until the meal is over.

In the Middle East and Greece, they call appetizers “meze.” You may find yourself enjoying deep fried foods with dips that are yogurt based. Seafood is a very popular ingredient for appetizers in South and Central America. Shrimp is one of the most frequently used ingredients. Tortillas are also very popular to dip. In the Caribbean, coconut chips are very popular.

When you are choosing from all the different recipes from around the world, you can find some great party food appetizers that everyone will love. Do not spend all your time in the kitchen when you have a party… use appetizers! They can be served before a meal or be the only source of food at a party.

Choosing recipes from different food cultures lets you use your favorite ingredients and techniques. You can make many ahead of time and avoid a lot of stress before the party. Your guests will enjoy a wide range of goodies from all over the world. It is like traveling one bite at a time.

An easy cold appetizer recipe is just the thing to use at a party or dinner to whet the appetite. Cold appetizers can be put together quickly without having to use the stove or oven. Be sure to prepare enough for all of your family and guests so they don’t feel left out.