Mastering IELTS Speaking: A Guide to Describing Your Favorite Traditional Dish

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about food and cultural traditions, making “describe a traditional dish you enjoy” a common topic. This article will provide you with strategies and sample answers to help you excel in this part of the exam, whether you’re taking it in India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Philippines, Iran, South Korea, Nigeria, or Indonesia.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about food and traditional dishes. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you enjoy cooking?
2. What’s your favorite traditional dish from your country?
3. How often do you eat traditional food?

Let’s focus on question 2:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“My favorite traditional dish is pho, which is a Vietnamese noodle soup. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal consisting of rice noodles in a savory broth, typically made with beef or chicken. What I love most about pho is its complex blend of spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, which give it a unique and comforting aroma. It’s often served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking.”

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a traditional dish:

Describe a traditional dish you enjoy
You should say:
- What the dish is
- How it is prepared
- When people usually eat this dish
- And explain why you like it

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a traditional Indian dish that I absolutely adore called butter chicken. This rich and flavorful dish originated in Delhi and has since become a staple in Indian cuisine worldwide.

The preparation of butter chicken is quite intricate and time-consuming. It starts with marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt and spices such as turmeric, garam masala, and cumin. The marinated chicken is then cooked in a tandoor, which is a traditional clay oven. Meanwhile, a luscious sauce is prepared using tomatoes, butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. The tandoor-cooked chicken is then simmered in this sauce, allowing it to absorb all the wonderful flavors.

Butter chicken is typically enjoyed during special occasions or festive gatherings, but it’s also a popular choice for weekend family dinners. It’s often served with naan bread or basmati rice, which are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

I’m particularly fond of this dish for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of tender chicken and creamy, spiced sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that I find irresistible. The rich, tomato-based gravy has a velvety texture that’s both comforting and indulgent. Moreover, butter chicken holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of family gatherings and celebrations. The aromatic spices used in the dish also evoke memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, making it a truly nostalgic experience every time I eat it.

In conclusion, butter chicken is not just a meal for me; it’s a culinary journey that combines exquisite flavors, cultural significance, and personal memories, making it a dish I thoroughly enjoy and appreciate.”

Indian Butter Chicken with Naan

Follow-up questions:

1. Are there any health benefits associated with this dish?
2. How has this traditional dish evolved over time?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 7-8):

“While butter chicken is undoubtedly delicious, it’s not typically considered a health food due to its high calorie and fat content. However, it does offer some nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The tomato-based sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, the various spices used in the dish, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties and may boost overall health. That being said, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:

Examiner: How do you think traditional dishes contribute to a country’s cultural identity?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Traditional dishes play a pivotal role in shaping and preserving a country’s cultural identity. They serve as a tangible link to a nation’s history, often reflecting the geographic, economic, and social factors that have influenced the culture over time. For instance, the prevalence of rice dishes in many Asian cuisines is a direct result of the region’s agricultural practices and climate.

Moreover, traditional foods act as a medium for cultural expression and storytelling. Each dish often carries with it a wealth of stories, rituals, and customs that have been passed down through generations. This oral tradition surrounding food helps to maintain cultural continuity and provides a sense of belonging for community members.

Traditional cuisines also serve as a point of pride and distinction for many countries. They become a part of the nation’s identity on the global stage, attracting tourists and fostering cultural exchange. For example, Italy is renowned for its pasta and pizza, while Japan is celebrated for sushi and ramen. These culinary traditions have become ambassadors of their respective cultures, promoting understanding and appreciation among different nations.

Furthermore, the preparation and consumption of traditional dishes often involve social rituals and gatherings, which strengthen community bonds and reinforce cultural values. Family recipes passed down through generations create a sense of heritage and connection to one’s roots.

In an increasingly globalized world, traditional dishes serve as an anchor to cultural identity, helping to preserve unique customs and flavors in the face of homogenization. They remind us of our diverse culinary heritage and the importance of maintaining these traditions for future generations.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

1. Culinary heritage /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun): The traditional dishes and cooking methods passed down through generations.
   Example: “Pho is an integral part of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.”

2. Gastronomic delight /ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈlaɪt/ (noun phrase): A food that provides great pleasure to eat.
   Example: “Butter chicken is a gastronomic delight that tantalizes the taste buds.”

3. Aromatic /ˌærəˈmætɪk/ (adjective): Having a pleasant and distinctive smell.
   Example: “The aromatic spices in the dish filled the kitchen with a wonderful scent.”

4. To evoke memories /tə ɪˈvəʊk ˈmeməriz/ (verb phrase): To bring a memory to mind.
   Example: “The smell of freshly baked bread often evokes memories of my childhood.”

5. Culinary journey /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈdʒɜːni/ (noun phrase): An exploration of different foods and flavors.
   Example: “Trying different regional cuisines is like embarking on a culinary journey across the country.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a traditional dish:

1. Practice describing foods in detail, focusing on appearance, taste, texture, and aroma.
2. Develop a broad food-related vocabulary to express your thoughts more precisely.
3. Prepare personal anecdotes related to traditional dishes to make your responses more engaging and authentic.
4. Practice linking your ideas smoothly using appropriate transition words and phrases.
5. Work on your pronunciation of food-related terms, especially those from your own culture.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational style while incorporating a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

describe a movie you recently watched and enjoyed

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss traditional dishes and food-related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your exam!