Exploring Lunch Traditions Around the Globe: From Spicy Fish Fry to Paneer Rolls

Lunch, the midday meal, holds a special place in every culture. The dishes we choose to eat can tell us a lot about our culinary heritage and daily life. Today, we explore lunch traditions from around the world, highlighting diverse recipes and cultural significance.

A Personal Lunch Experience in Spicy Fish Fry

Today for lunch, I enjoyed a delightful meal of spicy fish fry. Spicy fish fry is a typical dish from my country, and it is an easy and tasty recipe. I highly recommend trying it out, as it is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Recipe for Spicy Fish Fry

To make spicy fish fry, start by mixing all the ingredients for the marinade to form a thick paste. Apply this mixture to the fish and allow it to marinate for 30 minutes, either on the counter or under sunlight. Once the fish is fully marinated, heat coconut oil in a pan and place the fish. Cover and cook for 7 to 8 minutes before turning it over to cook on the other side until it is crispy and fully cooked. Lastly, add in curry leaves and serve it hot.

Diversity in Lunch Traditions

Now that I am retired, my typical lunch has changed. Previously, it would have included heating up baked beans and toasted bread fingers. However, in my younger days, a more common lunch was leftover baked pork steaks sautéed with sliced ginger, vegetables, and soy sauce.

In Australia, many people opt for a sandwich or roll for lunch, often from workplace canteens. On payday, there are local clubs where people enjoy pasta or even a steak and salad.

In Slovakia, the lunch is the main meal of the day. People often consume pasta, rissotto, meat and potatoes, or rice. Some individuals even have two lunches—a soup and a main dish. Dinner tends to be a lighter meal with dishes like salads, sandwiches, roasted potatoes, eggs, or soup.

International Styles of Paneer Rolls

Recently, I was intrigued by a dish called Paneer rolls. It is a unique combination of various ingredients, including paneer (Indian cottage cheese), Mariana sauce, roasted walnuts, zucchini salad, garlic bread, and a refreshing lemon and cucumber infused water. Paneer rolls are not typical in my country, but they have become an essential part of my diet due to a current health regimen.

Origins and Preparation of Paneer Rolls

The dish known as paneer rolls is named Malabar Parotta, Kerala Parotta, or Barotta. It originates from Tamil Nadu, and through migration, it has become a popular street food in the Malabar regions of Kerala. From there, it has spread to other southern Indian states and even gained popularity in countries like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the UAE.

To prepare paneer rolls, use all-purpose flour, ghee or oil, salt, sugar, and eggs (though there are variations without eggs). Certain traditional variations include ghee malai and honey. Serve these delightful rolls with seasonings like mango pickle, raita, and tandoori curd for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lunch is a vital part of any culture, and each cuisine offers its unique flavor and tradition. Whether it’s the spicy fish fry, baked beans, or paneer rolls, these dishes not only reflect a specific culture but also bring people together over a shared meal. So, take a moment today and enjoy your lunch, celebrating the diversity of international cuisine.