List of condiments facts for kids
A condiment is a special food added to other foods. It helps to make a dish taste better, or adds a new flavor. Think of it like a helper for your main meal! Condiments can be sauces, powders, or even pickled foods. They are usually small additions and can't be a meal by themselves. Long ago, the word "condiment" meant pickled or preserved foods. But now, it includes many other things like ketchup, mustard, and even maple syrup. Different countries and cultures have their own unique and tasty condiments.
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What Are Condiments?
Condiments are extra ingredients that you add to food. They can make your food taste sweeter, spicier, or more savory. They are not the main part of the meal, but they make it more exciting!
Popular Condiments Around the World
Many condiments are loved by people everywhere. Here are some examples:
- Aioli: A creamy sauce like mayonnaise, but with lots of garlic.
- Barbecue sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce, often used on grilled meats.
- Chutney: A fruity or savory sauce, often with spices, from India.
- Fish sauce: A salty liquid made from fermented fish, popular in Asian cooking.
- Ketchup: A sweet and tangy sauce, usually made from tomatoes.
- Mayonnaise: A thick, creamy sauce made from oil, egg yolk, and vinegar.
- Mustard: A spicy paste made from mustard seeds.
- Soy sauce: A salty, dark sauce made from fermented soybeans, common in Asian dishes.
- Sriracha sauce: A spicy chili sauce.
- Syrup: A thick, sweet liquid, like maple syrup or chocolate syrup.
- Vinegar: A sour liquid used to add tanginess.
Condiments by Country
Different countries have their own special condiments that are part of their food culture.
Australia
In Australia, you might find:
- Tomato sauce: Similar to ketchup.
- Vegemite: A dark, salty spread made from yeast extract. It's very popular for breakfast!
- Chicken salt: A salty seasoning often put on fries.
Canada
- Maple syrup: A sweet syrup made from the sap of maple trees. It's famous for pancakes and waffles!
China
Chinese food uses many flavorful condiments:
- Black vinegar: A dark, tangy vinegar.
- Chili oil: Oil infused with chili peppers for a spicy kick.
- Hoisin sauce: A thick, sweet, and salty sauce often used with duck or in stir-fries.
- Oyster sauce: A rich, savory sauce made from oyster extracts.
- Soy sauce: A very common salty sauce used in many dishes.
- Sweet bean sauce: A dark, sweet sauce made from fermented flour and soybeans.
India
India is known for its many delicious condiments:
- Chutney: Sweet or savory sauces, often made with fruits, vegetables, and spices.
- Indian pickles: Spicy and tangy pickles made from fruits or vegetables like mangoes or limes.
- Raita: A cool, creamy yogurt dip, often with cucumber or mint, that balances spicy dishes.
Indonesia
Indonesian food features many unique condiments:
- Acar: Pickled vegetables, often sweet and sour.
- Kecap manis: A thick, sweet soy sauce.
- Peanut sauce: A rich, savory sauce made from ground peanuts, often served with satay.
- Sambal: A spicy chili paste, with many different kinds and flavors.
Japan
Japanese cuisine has its own special condiments:
- Miso: A salty paste made from fermented soybeans, used in soups and dressings.
- Soy sauce: A key ingredient in many Japanese dishes.
- Wasabi: A very spicy green paste, often served with sushi.
Korea
Korean food is famous for its bold flavors and condiments:
- Gochujang: A savory, sweet, and spicy fermented chili paste.
- Doenjang: A savory fermented soybean paste, similar to miso.
- Kimchi: A traditional side dish of fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage and Korean radish. It's a staple in Korean meals!
Mexico
Mexican food is known for its fresh and spicy condiments:
- Guacamole: A creamy dip made from mashed avocados, often with onion, cilantro, and lime.
- Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro.
- Salsa: A general term for many types of sauces, often spicy, served with chips or meals.
Philippines
The Philippines has many unique condiments:
- Atchara: Pickled green papaya, often sweet and sour.
- Banana ketchup: A sweet ketchup made from bananas, popular in the Philippines.
- Patis: A salty fish sauce.
- Sawsawan: A general term for dipping sauces, which are very common in Filipino meals.
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United Kingdom
The UK has some classic condiments:
- Brown sauce: A tangy, slightly sweet sauce, often served with breakfast or meat.
- Marmite: A dark, salty spread made from yeast extract, similar to Vegemite.
- Mint sauce: A sauce made from chopped mint, often served with lamb.
- Pickled walnuts: Walnuts preserved in vinegar, often served with cheese or cold meats.
United States
The United States has many popular condiments:
- Barbecue sauce: A sweet, smoky, or tangy sauce used for grilling and dipping.
- Cranberry sauce: A sweet and tart sauce made from cranberries, often served with turkey.
- Fry sauce: A mix of ketchup and mayonnaise, popular with french fries.
- Ranch: A creamy dressing often used on salads or as a dip.
Images for kids
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Three relishes here accompany Nshima, a cornmeal product in African cuisine.
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Making vinaigrette salad dressing.
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Various vinegars.
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Close-up image of za'atar, a blend of herbs, sesame, and salt.
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Ají with lime.
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Taramosalata with garnishes.
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Homemade mango pickle.
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Dahi chutney (at right) with Mirchi ka salan.
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Smörgåskaviar tops a cottage cheese sandwich.
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At top is nam phrik pla salat pon, a condiment in Thai cuisine, served here with a selection of raw vegetables in Khorat, Thailand.
See also
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