IELTS Speaking: Describing Traditional Dishes

IELTS Speaking examiners often ask candidates to describe traditional dishes from their culture. This topic has consistently appeared in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Being well-prepared to discuss traditional cuisine can significantly boost your speaking score.

Describe a food that you disliked as a child but now enjoy is another common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. While discussing traditional dishes, you may also want to mention how your taste preferences have evolved over time.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about food and traditional dishes. Here’s a sample question with a suggested response:

Q: What’s a popular traditional dish in your country?

A: (Band 8-9 response) One of the most iconic dishes in my country is pho, a hearty and aromatic noodle soup. It’s ubiquitous in Vietnam and beloved by people from all walks of life. Pho typically consists of a flavorful broth, rice noodles, tender slices of beef or chicken, and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol that represents the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

Vietnamese Pho Traditional Noodle Soup

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a traditional dish:

Describe a traditional dish from your culture
You should say:

• What the dish is called
• What ingredients are used to make it
• How it is prepared
• And explain why this dish is important in your culture

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about pho, a quintessential Vietnamese dish that has gained international recognition in recent years.

Pho is essentially a nourishing beef noodle soup that originated in the early 20th century in northern Vietnam. The key ingredients include a savory broth made from beef bones and aromatic spices, flat rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables.

The preparation of pho is quite labor-intensive and requires meticulous attention to detail. The broth, which is the soul of the dish, is simmered for hours with beef bones, oxtails, and spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a rich and complex base. The rice noodles are cooked separately and then combined with the broth and meat just before serving. Fresh herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and mint, along with bean sprouts and lime wedges, are served alongside, allowing diners to customize their bowl to their liking.

Pho holds immense cultural significance in Vietnam for several reasons. Firstly, it embodies the Vietnamese philosophy of balancing flavors and textures in a single dish. The combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, along with the contrast between the hot broth and cool herbs, creates a harmonious eating experience. Secondly, pho reflects the country’s history, with influences from both Chinese and French cuisines, which have played significant roles in shaping Vietnamese culture. Lastly, pho has become a source of national pride, as it has gained popularity worldwide and is often seen as an ambassador of Vietnamese cuisine.

In conclusion, pho is not just a delicious meal but a cultural touchstone that connects Vietnamese people to their heritage and showcases the country’s culinary prowess to the world.”

Pho Ingredients and Preparation Process

Possible follow-up questions:

Q: How has this traditional dish evolved over time?
A: (Band 8-9 response) Pho has undergone significant evolution since its inception. While the core elements remain the same, modern variations have emerged to cater to diverse palates and dietary requirements. For instance, we now see vegetarian and vegan versions using plant-based broths and protein alternatives. Additionally, fusion interpretations of pho have appeared in many countries, incorporating local ingredients and culinary techniques. This adaptability demonstrates the dish’s enduring appeal and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.

Q: Do you think traditional dishes like this will remain popular in the future?
A: (Band 8-9 response) I’m confident that traditional dishes like pho will continue to thrive in the future. In our increasingly globalized world, people are becoming more interested in authentic culinary experiences and cultural heritage. Traditional dishes serve as a tangible link to our roots and offer a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Moreover, the health benefits associated with many traditional recipes, which often use fresh, whole ingredients, align well with modern nutritional trends. However, I believe we’ll see more innovative twists on these classics, as chefs and home cooks alike experiment with new techniques and ingredients while still honoring the dish’s essence.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do traditional dishes contribute to a country’s cultural identity?

A: (Band 8-9 response) Traditional dishes play a pivotal role in shaping and preserving a country’s cultural identity. They are often deeply rooted in history, reflecting the geographic, economic, and social factors that have influenced a nation over time. These dishes serve as a culinary time capsule, preserving ancient techniques and flavor combinations that have been passed down through generations.

Moreover, traditional cuisine acts as a powerful unifying force within communities. Shared meals and culinary traditions foster a sense of belonging and help maintain cultural connections, especially for diaspora communities living abroad. They also serve as a source of national pride and can become iconic symbols of a country, much like landmarks or historical figures.

In the realm of diplomacy and international relations, traditional dishes often function as cultural ambassadors. They provide a tangible and accessible way for people from different backgrounds to experience and appreciate another culture. This culinary diplomacy can foster understanding and bridge cultural gaps, making traditional dishes an essential component of a country’s soft power.

Furthermore, in an era of globalization, traditional dishes help maintain cultural diversity. They stand as a counterpoint to the homogenization of global food culture, preserving unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods that might otherwise be lost. This culinary heritage not only enriches the global gastronomic landscape but also contributes to biodiversity by maintaining demand for local and heritage ingredients.

In essence, traditional dishes are far more than just food; they are embodiments of cultural wisdom, historical narratives, and communal identity, playing a crucial role in defining and expressing a nation’s unique character.

Traditional Dishes and Cultural Identity

Q: In what ways has globalization affected traditional cuisines?

A: (Band 7-8 response) Globalization has had a profound impact on traditional cuisines worldwide, bringing both opportunities and challenges. On the positive side, it has increased accessibility to diverse ingredients and cooking techniques, allowing chefs to experiment and innovate with traditional recipes. This cross-cultural exchange has led to the creation of fusion cuisines that blend elements from different culinary traditions.

However, globalization has also posed threats to the authenticity of traditional dishes. The standardization of food production and the rise of international fast-food chains have sometimes led to the simplification or dilution of traditional recipes. There’s also a risk of certain traditional ingredients becoming scarce or extinct due to changing agricultural practices and environmental factors.

Despite these challenges, globalization has also sparked a renewed interest in preserving culinary heritage. Many people are now actively seeking out authentic traditional dishes, both in their home countries and while traveling abroad. This has led to a revival of traditional cooking methods and a greater appreciation for local, seasonal ingredients.

In conclusion, while globalization has certainly changed the landscape of traditional cuisines, it has also created new opportunities for these dishes to reach a wider audience and evolve in interesting ways.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Quintessential /ˌkwɪn.təˈsen.ʃəl/ (adj): representing the most typical example of something
   Example: Pho is a quintessential Vietnamese dish.

2. Aromatic /ˌær.əˈmæt.ɪk/ (adj): having a pleasant, noticeable smell
   Example: The aromatic spices in pho create a captivating fragrance.

3. Ubiquitous /juːˈbɪk.wɪ.təs/ (adj): seeming to be everywhere
   Example: Pho restaurants are ubiquitous in Vietnam’s major cities.

4. Meld /meld/ (v): to blend or combine
   Example: The long cooking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

5. Culinary diplomacy (n): the use of food and cuisine as an instrument to create cross-cultural understanding
   Example: Traditional dishes often serve as a form of culinary diplomacy between nations.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score when describing traditional dishes in IELTS Speaking:

1. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate descriptive adjectives and specific culinary terms to showcase your language proficiency.

2. Provide detailed explanations: Don’t just list ingredients; explain their significance and how they contribute to the dish’s flavor and cultural importance.

3. Connect the dish to broader cultural contexts: Discuss how the dish reflects historical, social, or economic aspects of your culture.

4. Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms or collocations related to food and culture to demonstrate your command of English.

5. Practice fluency: Aim to speak smoothly and confidently, using appropriate pausing and intonation to enhance your delivery.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just what you say, but how you say it. Regular practice with a variety of food-related topics will help you build the confidence and fluency needed to excel in your IELTS Speaking test.

Describe a recent travel experience that left an impression on you could be another interesting topic to practice, as it might allow you to discuss traditional dishes you’ve encountered during your travels.