The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about food and cooking, making it essential for test-takers to be prepared to discuss culinary topics. One common theme that may arise is describing a foreign dish you want to learn to cook. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, cultural knowledge, and ability to express personal interests. Let’s explore how to effectively address this subject in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about cooking and food preferences. Here are some possible questions and suggested answers:
Question: Do you enjoy cooking?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy cooking. It’s a great way to relax after a long day and I find it satisfying to create something delicious from scratch. I especially like trying out new recipes on weekends when I have more time.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about cooking. There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming raw ingredients into a mouthwatering dish. I particularly relish the creative aspect of experimenting with different flavor combinations and techniques. It’s not just a hobby for me; it’s a form of self-expression and a way to share my love for food with friends and family.
Question: What’s your favorite cuisine?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I’m particularly fond of Italian cuisine. I love the variety of pasta dishes and the use of fresh herbs and tomatoes in many recipes. Pizza is also a favorite of mine, especially when it’s homemade.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I have a deep appreciation for Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Italian. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and the balance of flavors really appeals to me. I’m fascinated by how Italian cooking manages to create complex flavors from relatively simple ingredients. The regional diversity within Italian cuisine also intrigues me, from the seafood-rich dishes of the coastal areas to the hearty, meat-based fare of the inland regions.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to discuss for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:
Cue Card:
Describe a foreign dish you want to learn to cook.
You should say:
- What the dish is
- Which country it comes from
- Why you want to learn to cook it
- And explain how you plan to learn to cook this dish
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
The foreign dish I’d like to learn to cook is paella, which is a traditional Spanish dish. It’s a rice-based dish that typically includes various types of seafood, meat, and vegetables.
I want to learn to cook paella because I tried it once in a Spanish restaurant and really enjoyed the flavors. It’s also a dish that’s great for sharing with friends and family, which I think would be fun to do.
To learn how to cook paella, I plan to watch some online cooking tutorials and maybe buy a cookbook specializing in Spanish cuisine. I think I’ll start with a simple version first and then try more complex recipes as I get better at it.
I believe learning to cook paella will help me understand more about Spanish culture and improve my cooking skills in general. It’s a challenging dish, but I’m excited to give it a try.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
The foreign dish I’m eager to master is the Japanese delicacy known as ramen. While many people might be familiar with the instant variety, authentic ramen is a culinary art form that requires skill, patience, and a deep understanding of flavor profiles.
Originating from Japan, ramen has a rich cultural heritage that I find fascinating. It’s not just a dish; it’s a representation of Japan’s culinary evolution and its ability to adapt foreign influences into something uniquely Japanese.
My desire to learn how to cook ramen stems from several factors. Firstly, I’m captivated by the complexity of the dish – from the intricate preparation of the broth, which can take hours or even days, to the precision required in cooking the noodles to the perfect consistency. Secondly, I’m intrigued by the versatility of ramen. The variations in broths, toppings, and regional styles offer endless opportunities for creativity and experimentation.
To embark on this culinary journey, I plan to take a multi-faceted approach to learning. I intend to start by immersing myself in the literature of ramen, reading books by renowned ramen chefs to understand the philosophy behind the dish. Simultaneously, I’ll be watching detailed video tutorials to grasp the visual aspects of the techniques involved.
I also plan to seek out hands-on experience. I’m looking into short courses or workshops specializing in ramen preparation, preferably led by experienced Japanese chefs. Additionally, I aim to practice regularly at home, starting with simpler broths and gradually working my way up to more complex recipes.
Ultimately, I believe that learning to cook ramen will not only enhance my culinary repertoire but also deepen my appreciation for Japanese culture and the art of slow food. It’s a challenging endeavor, but one that I’m enthusiastic about pursuing with dedication and passion.
Follow-up Questions:
- What challenges do you think you might face when learning to cook this dish?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think the main challenge will be getting the timing right for all the different ingredients. Paella has many components that need to be cooked just right, so managing everything at once might be tricky. Also, finding some of the authentic ingredients could be difficult in my local area.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The primary challenges I anticipate in mastering ramen are multifaceted. Firstly, achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the broth is crucial and requires a refined palate and extensive practice. The broth is the soul of ramen, and its complexity lies in the subtle interplay of ingredients like kombu, katsuobushi, and various aromatics.
Secondly, perfecting the noodle texture presents another significant hurdle. The noodles must have the right chew and springiness, which depends on factors like flour composition, kneading technique, and precise cooking time. This aspect alone could take months to master.
Lastly, sourcing authentic ingredients might prove challenging. Some key components like specific types of seaweed or certain cuts of meat may not be readily available outside Japan, requiring me to either find suitable substitutes or go to great lengths to import them.
- How important do you think it is to learn about different cuisines?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think learning about different cuisines is quite important. It helps us understand other cultures better and can make us more open-minded. Trying new foods from around the world can also be a fun way to experience different flavors and cooking methods.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I believe that learning about different cuisines is immensely valuable on multiple levels. Firstly, it serves as a gateway to cultural understanding. Cuisine is often a reflection of a region’s history, geography, and social customs. By exploring diverse culinary traditions, we gain insights into the lived experiences of people from various backgrounds.
Moreover, exposure to different cuisines broadens our palate and challenges our preconceptions about food. This can lead to greater culinary creativity and a more adventurous approach to eating and cooking. It also promotes nutritional diversity, as different cuisines often emphasize varied ingredients and cooking methods, potentially leading to a more balanced diet.
From a global perspective, understanding various cuisines can foster cross-cultural appreciation and break down barriers. Food has a unique ability to bring people together, and familiarity with diverse culinary traditions can facilitate meaningful connections across cultural boundaries.
Lastly, in our increasingly interconnected world, culinary knowledge can be a valuable professional asset. Whether in the hospitality industry, international business, or diplomacy, an understanding of global cuisines can enhance one’s ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and answers:
Question: How do you think globalization has affected traditional cuisines around the world?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think globalization has had both positive and negative effects on traditional cuisines. On the positive side, it’s now easier to try foods from different countries without traveling there. We can find ingredients for foreign dishes more easily in our local stores. However, it might also mean that some traditional dishes are being changed or forgotten as people adopt more international eating habits.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The impact of globalization on traditional cuisines is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. On one hand, globalization has led to an unprecedented exchange of culinary ideas and techniques, allowing chefs and home cooks alike to access a vast array of ingredients and cooking methods from around the world. This cross-pollination has resulted in innovative fusion cuisines and has breathed new life into many traditional dishes.
However, there’s also a concerning aspect to this culinary globalization. The homogenization of food culture, driven by multinational food corporations and fast-food chains, poses a threat to the authenticity and diversity of traditional cuisines. Local food traditions that have been passed down for generations are at risk of being diluted or even lost as younger generations gravitate towards more globalized eating habits.
Moreover, the global food supply chain has led to the displacement of local ingredients in favor of imported products, which can alter the fundamental character of traditional dishes. This shift not only affects the taste and authenticity of the food but can also have economic implications for local farmers and food producers.
That being said, there’s also a growing counter-movement that seeks to preserve and revitalize traditional cuisines. Many chefs and food enthusiasts are working to document and promote local food heritage, often incorporating modern techniques while staying true to the essence of traditional recipes. This balancing act between innovation and preservation is perhaps the most intriguing aspect of how globalization is shaping the future of world cuisines.
Question: Do you think it’s important for people to learn how to cook traditional dishes from their own culture?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s quite important. Learning to cook traditional dishes helps keep cultural heritage alive. It’s a way to connect with our roots and understand our history better. Plus, it’s nice to be able to share these dishes with others and introduce them to our culture through food.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that learning to cook traditional dishes from one’s own culture is of paramount importance for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it serves as a tangible link to cultural heritage. The act of preparing and consuming traditional dishes allows individuals to actively participate in their cultural narrative, fostering a deeper connection to their roots and ancestry.
Moreover, traditional cooking techniques and recipes often embody generations of accumulated wisdom about nutrition, seasonal eating, and the efficient use of local resources. By learning these practices, individuals not only preserve valuable knowledge but also gain insights into sustainable and health-conscious eating habits that have stood the test of time.
From a societal perspective, the ability to cook traditional dishes plays a crucial role in cultural preservation and transmission. As globalization continues to blur cultural boundaries, maintaining these culinary traditions becomes an act of cultural resistance and affirmation. It allows for the intergenerational transfer of knowledge, strengthening family and community bonds.
Additionally, proficiency in traditional cooking can be a source of personal pride and cultural identity. In multicultural societies, it provides a means of expressing and sharing one’s heritage with others, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Lastly, from a culinary standpoint, mastering traditional recipes provides a solid foundation for further exploration and innovation in cooking. Understanding the principles behind traditional dishes equips individuals with the knowledge to experiment and adapt these recipes, ensuring that cultural cuisines remain vibrant and relevant in contemporary contexts.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test when discussing foreign cuisines, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Culinary heritage [ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈherɪtɪdʒ] (noun phrase): The traditional dishes and cooking methods of a particular culture or region.
Example: “Japanese ramen is an integral part of the country’s rich culinary heritage.” -
Gastronomic adventure [ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk ədˈventʃə] (noun phrase): An exploration of new and exciting foods and flavors.
Example: “Learning to cook authentic paella would be a gastronomic adventure for me.” -
Flavor profile [ˈfleɪvə ˈprəʊfaɪl] (noun phrase): The combination of tastes and aromas that characterize a particular dish or ingredient.
Example: “The complex flavor profile of ramen broth is what makes it so appealing to me.” -
Culinary techniques [ˈkʌlɪnəri tekˈniːks] (noun phrase): The methods and skills used in preparing and cooking food.
Example: “Mastering the culinary techniques involved in making ramen will be challenging but rewarding.” -
Authentic ingredients [ɔːˈθentɪk ɪnˈgriːdiənts] (noun phrase): Genuine, traditional components used in a particular cuisine.
Example: “Finding authentic ingredients for paella might be difficult in my local area.” -
To savor [tə ˈseɪvə] (verb): To enjoy food or drink by tasting it slowly and appreciating it fully.
Example: “I want to learn to cook this dish so I can savor its authentic flavors at home.” -
Epicurean delight [ˌepɪkjʊˈriːən dɪˈlaɪt] (noun phrase): A food or dish that gives great pleasure to someone who enjoys fine food.
Example: “Authentic ramen is truly an epicurean delight that I’m eager to master.” -
Culinary prowess [ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈpraʊəs] (noun phrase): Great skill or expertise in cooking.
Example: “Learning to make this complex dish will certainly improve my culinary prowess.”
By incorporating these terms and phrases into your responses, you can demonstrate a sophisticated vocabulary and a nuanced understanding of cooking and cuisines, which can help you achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing foreign cuisines or any other topic, consider the following tips:
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Expand your vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and phrases related to food, cooking, and cultural topics. Use them naturally in your responses.
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Practice describing processes: Many cooking-related questions involve explaining procedures. Practice breaking down complex processes into clear, logical steps.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your points with examples, personal experiences, or broader implications.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences, conditionals, and different tenses to showcase your language skills.
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Work on pronunciation and fluency: Regular practice speaking English, especially on topics like food and culture, will help you sound more natural and confident.
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Stay informed: Read about different cuisines, food trends, and cultural practices related to food. This knowledge will help you provide more insightful answers.
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Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Examiners appreciate genuine, spontaneous responses.
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Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question fully before answering. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if needed.
By following these tips and regularly practicing your speaking skills, you can improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing topics like foreign cuisines and cooking.