Understanding how to articulate your thoughts about food you’d like to try is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. Just like describe a dish from another country you would like to try, this theme requires candidates to demonstrate their vocabulary range and ability to express preferences clearly.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common questions about food preferences:
- What kind of food do you usually eat?
- Do you like trying new foods?
- What’s your favorite cuisine?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely adore exploring different cuisines. While I’m quite fond of traditional Vietnamese food, I’m always eager to venture into trying new dishes from various cultures. I find it fascinating how different ingredients and cooking methods can create such unique flavors.”
Candidate discussing food preferences in IELTS Speaking Test
Part 2: Cue Card
Talk about a food that you would like to try
You should say:
- What the food is
- Where you learned about it
- Why you want to try it
- And explain how you plan to try it
Similar to describe a dish you would like to learn how to cook, this topic requires detailed description and planning.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m really keen to try authentic Japanese Fugu, which is pufferfish sashimi. I first came across this intriguing dish while watching a documentary about exclusive Japanese cuisine. What fascinates me most about this dish is not just its taste, but the entire experience surrounding it. It’s notorious for being potentially lethal if not prepared correctly, which is why only specially licensed chefs can prepare it.
I’m particularly intrigued by how this dish represents the pinnacle of Japanese culinary artistry. The chefs must undergo rigorous training for years before they’re certified to prepare it. I plan to try it at a highly-acclaimed restaurant in Tokyo called ‘Torafugu-tei,’ which has been serving this delicacy for over 40 years.
I’ve actually made arrangements to visit Japan next spring, and I’ve already started researching reputable restaurants that serve Fugu. I find it remarkable how something so dangerous can be transformed into a gourmet delicacy through skill and precision.”
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to try Fugu, which is a Japanese fish dish. I learned about it from TV shows and the internet. It’s interesting because it can be dangerous if not cooked properly. I think it must be very special because only special chefs can make it. I plan to go to Japan someday and eat it in a good restaurant there. I want to try it because it’s famous and not many people have eaten it before.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How do you think food preferences change as people get older?
Similar to how describe a person who has a unique profession discusses evolution in careers, food preferences also evolve over time.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I strongly believe that our palates undergo significant transformation as we age. From my observation, younger people tend to gravitate towards bold, intense flavors, while older individuals often develop an appreciation for more subtle, nuanced tastes. This shift might be attributed to both physiological changes and increased exposure to diverse cuisines over time.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Culinary artistry /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈɑːtɪstri/ (n.) – the art of cooking
- Notorious /nəʊˈtɔːriəs/ (adj.) – famous for something bad
- Pinnacle /ˈpɪnəkl/ (n.) – the highest point of achievement
- Intriguing /ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ/ (adj.) – very interesting because of being unusual
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Demonstrate awareness of cultural aspects of food
- Include personal experiences or plans
- Show understanding of cooking processes and terminology
IELTS candidate using advanced food vocabulary
Like describe a memorable shopping experience you had recently, remember to include sensory details and personal connections in your responses.
