“Fusion Cuisine” – Is imho over-rated and historically misleading; depending on the use of the phrase in conversation.
Please don’t lump me, or my content, into the “Fusion Cuisine” category. “Fusion Cooking” has been happening since long before the current pop culture marketing of the concept.
Historically global economies could not have grown without culturally mixed and varied cooking; which has been happening over thousands of years.
For example, if you use Black Pepper, then you are cooking with fusion… or are you?… Same question for Cinnamon, if you use it: Which Culinary Culture are you preparing a meal from?
While some “seasonings” are distinctly Cultural, (Garham Masala, Tikka Masala, etc.) chance are they’ve been traded around the world for hundreds, if not thousands of years (ie: Curry Spice).
Adopted by various Cultures on any given continent, most Herbs & Spices are now available around the globe. They should be enjoyed and experimented with and not just labeled for this style of food, or that style.
In the end, “Fusion” in cooking is just a useful word, which sounds much better then ‘hybrid cooking’? Good Food is to be enjoyed and shared: Please enjoy a variety, and enjoy often.
