In a world where globalisation often dilutes local traditions, food remains one of the most powerful connections to our cultural roots. Whether you come from a village in Iraq or Ireland, every culture is deeply intertwined with its culinary heritage. Food doesn’t just nourish; it carries the stories, values and identity of communities across the globe. Learning to cook traditional dishes becomes a meaningful way to preserve these histories, making culinary arts a profound act of cultural preservation. A survey conducted by the BigPicnic project found that 68% of respondents believe food heritage plays a significant role in shaping personal and collective identities, highlighting the vital role of food in keeping traditions alive.
No matter your age, it’s never too late to start. If you didn’t grow up learning how to cook traditional meals and think it’s too late, it’s not. Ask your loved ones to teach you, explore a cookbook, or turn to platforms like YouTube or TikTok. There’s no shortage of ways to reconnect with your culinary heritage, and it’s another gateway into preserving the essence of your culture.
Food is a universal language that crosses borders, bringing people together around the dinner table. Traditional dishes capture the essence of a culture's history and identity, reflected in the spices, ingredients, and techniques passed down through generations. Whether it's the aromatic spices of Middle Eastern cuisine, the bold flavours of Indian curries, or the intricate craft of Italian pasta-making, these culinary traditions reflect the rich and distinct heritage of each culture.
For many individuals, cooking traditional dishes is a way to reconnect with their roots, especially for those living away from their homeland. Preparing a family recipe can evoke cherished memories of family gatherings, celebrations, and the warmth of home. It becomes a tangible way to honour one’s ancestry and share that heritage with the next generation.
In multicultural societies, sharing traditional recipes can be a bridge to understanding and appreciating different cultures. A great way to put this into practice is by organising a monthly heritage night with friends. Each person can take turns hosting a dinner party, preparing a dish from their own cultural background. From dolma to coq au vin, this tradition can not only strengthen your own connection to your roots but also create an experience where everyone can explore and appreciate the richness of different cultures. It’s about sharing your heritage and creating memorable moments with others.
Even celebrities recognise the importance of preserving their heritage through food. Actress and activist Padma Lakshmi, for example, frequently highlights her Indian heritage by cooking traditional dishes on her social media platforms, using it as a way to stay connected to her roots and educate her followers about Indian cuisine. Similarly, Stanley Tucci has used his Italian roots to inspire his cooking and storytelling. Through his cookbooks and TV series Searching for Italy, he explores the rich history of Italian cuisine, preserving and sharing his culinary heritage with the world.
