Mediterranean food has become one of the most popular styles of cooking in the past years. The perfect combination of healthy and tasty, it’s no surprise Mediterranean cuisine is hailed as the darling of the foodie community. But the term is vague, and the dishes can vary wildly from falafels to caprese salad. So what is Mediterranean food ?
Mediterranean food: a mix of three continents
The Mediterranean Sea sits and the convergence of three continents : Europe, Asia and North Africa. Throughout history, it’s served as a cradle of civilization, giving rise to region-spanning empires like the Romans and the Ottomans. For such a unique place, the climate is surprisingly uniform. Mediterranean coastal regions are usually sunny, warm, and dry, the perfect climate for growing vegetables and fruits.
It should be no surprise then, that vegetables are one of the most important parts of Mediterranean food. Tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers in particular serve as the base for many a sauce or salad. Accompanied by salted, dried or fresh cheeses (feta, mozzarella, halloumi), the Mediterranean diet is notably rich in nutrients. It’s signature fat, olive oil, is also packed with health benefits. Usually accompanied by bread, Mediterranean cuisine is naturally low-carb.
As for meat, Mediterranean food makes use of a balanced blend of proteins. Fish is common throughout the region, as well as lamb and chicken. Beef and pork are also common in the East and West of the region respectively. Beef can be halal and kosher, and therefore suitable for the sizeable Jewish and Muslim populations of the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. Pork meanwhile is more common in the Western Mediterranean, particularly in Italy and Spain, two countries famous for their dried and cured meats like Serrano ham, prosciutto, salami and chorizo.
Places to visit for Mediterranean food in Saigon
Mediterranean food can be hard to come by in HCMC, as many ingredients are not available locally and have to be imported. Nevertheless, here’s a list of places that will transport your tastebuds to the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean :
Since 2003, Au Parc has been serving Mediterranean classics with an emphasis on fresh, healthy and home-made ingredients. With and in house bakery and a large supply of imported specialities, Au Parc offers an authentic taste of the Mediterranean in a historic atmosphere. Nestled right in between the Independence Palace and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a Mediterranean meal while you soak in the historic atmosphere of central District 1.
A classic French brasserie, The Refinery serves Southern french staples like salade niçoise and ratatouille. Opened in 2005, it’s one of the longest-standingn French restaurants in the city, set in the historic location of the Indochina Opium Manufacture. The ideal location for a laid back meal of Mediterranean classics, the Refinery also features an extensive wine list to pair with your food.
