WITH the advent of globalisation, many foods have become international staples.
They are so ubiquitous that many even have their own special day when they are celebrated.
StarMetro highlights special food days for you to look forward to throughout the year.
Have a popping time with popcorn in January. — Pixabay
Jan 19: Popcorn
Once exclusive to American movie theatres, popcorn has evolved into a much-loved global snack.
Recognised since 2003 as National Popcorn Day across the US after it was coined by a Texas newspaper, this celebration has gained worldwide popularity.
Whether enjoyed plain, buttered or seasoned with gourmet flavours like truffle oil or chilli powder, popcorn’s appeal lies in its light, fluffy texture created by heating corn kernels until they burst.
To mark Popcorn Day, consider hosting a movie night with a tub of buttery popcorn, or try creative recipes like popcorn cereal for breakfast or using crushed popcorn in dinner dishes.
For added fun, engage in popcorn-themed activities like trivia night or an eating contest.
It’s not cheesy to enjoy pizzas any day and especially in February. — Filepic
Feb 9: Pizza
World Pizza Day honours one of Italy’s greatest gifts to the world.
Originating from Naples, pizza has evolved into a global phenomenon, with unique twists to its classic elements of crust, sauce and cheese.
Over in the US, from New York-style thin crust to Chicago’s deep-dish marvels, pizza brings people together.
To celebrate this day, gather family and friends to savour your favourite pizzas together or craft your own creations.
Fire up the griddle for all types of waffles in March. — Filepic
March 25: Waffles
Crisp on the outside and soft inside, waffles are enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack or for dessert.
March 25 is International Waffle Day for this treat that traces its roots to Sweden, as reported by India’s Times Now.
This day honours waffles for their versatility, whether enjoyed with fresh fruit, whipped cream and maple syrup or paired with savoury delights like fried chicken.
From Hong Kong’s distinctive egg waffles to Mexican variations featuring corn, coriander leaves and queso fresco (soft cheese), and Belgian waffles, these “griddle cake” offer a great base for diverse options.
April gets decadent with carbonara. — Pixabay
April 6: Carbonara
Featuring egg yolk and cheese among other ingredients, pasta carbonara is associated with Rome and the Lazio region in Italy.
International Carbonara Day, established in 2017 by Unione Italiana Food (UIF) and International Pasta Organisation, honours the dish’s elegant simplicity and decadent flavours that are synonymous with Italian cuisine.
A creamy texture combined with savoury richness has made carbonara a beloved menu staple across the globe.
Open wide for burgers in May. — Filepic
May 28: Burgers
Burgers, with juicy patties and limitless topping options, rank among the world’s most popular foods.
Originating as a convenient meal in late 19th-century America, burgers have evolved into gourmet creations featuring exotic meats, artisanal cheeses and an assortment of condiments.
Celebrating International Burger Day can involve hosting a burger party where guests create their own custom burgers or savouring appetising choices from local burger joints.
June is when the day for sushi rolls around. — Filepic
June 18: Sushi
Originating from Japan, sushi is renowned for its elegance and precision, crafted with vinegar-flavoured rice, fresh seafood and crisp roasted seaweed.
Sushi fan Chris DeMay has been credited for establishing International Sushi Day in 2009.
Today, sushi delights palates in its myriad forms, from traditional nigiri to creative rolls with fusion ingredients and culinary delicacies.
July is the month for chocolatey goodness. — Pixabay
July 7: Chocolate
Last year’s film Wonka enchanted the young audiences and ignited imaginations with its magical chocolates.
Chocolate had been introduced from Mesoamerican cultures to Europe by 1550.
Chocolate has evolved from a bitter drink into a sophisticated confectionery in its basic dark, milk and white forms.
It offers surprising health benefits – studies have shown that dark chocolate is rich in plant chemicals called flavanols which are antioxidants.
One of the best ways to celebrate World Chocolate Day is by sharing chocolate with loved ones.
As the principal character of Wonka says, “The secret is, it’s not the chocolate that matters. It’s the people you share it with.”
Oyster Day arrives in August. — Filepic
Aug 5: Oysters
Whether enjoyed freshly shucked with a squeeze of lemon or prepared in gourmet dishes, oysters are appreciated by seafood lovers everywhere.
The annual World Oyster Day underscores the economic, and even cultural, significance of oysters in coastal communities worldwide.
Ode to comforting fried rice in September. — Filepic
Sept 20: Fried Rice
Fried rice, originally devised to repurpose leftover rice, holds a special place in Asian cuisine.
Fried Rice Day has purportedly been celebrated since the 1940s and marks the dish’s evolution from classic Chinese varieties seasoned with soy sauce and vegetables, to Thai versions like pineapple fried rice that has a sweet-and-savoury twist.
Its versatility highlights its universal appeal as a comforting and satisfying meal.
Join the celebration by making a batch with pantry ingredients and savour its delightful flavours.
Humble but powerful, the porridge takes centre stage in October. — Filepic
Oct 10: Porridge
The equally versatile porridge is centred around warmth and nourishment.
World Porridge Day was established by UK-based charity Mary’s Meals under the leadership of Magus MacFarlane-Barrow.
The charity feeds over 1.6 million children across 19 countries, and World Porridge Day carries a profound significance in its efforts to combat hunger and support education.
Since its establishment in 2009, it has effectively raised awareness and contributed to improved school attendance and students’ well-being through the provision of nutritious meals.
It serves as a testament to the impact of compassion, illustrating how the humble bowl of porridge can positively change lives.
November can get hot with Global Kimchi Day. — Pixabay
Nov 22: Kimchi
Global Kimchi Day highlights kimchi’s importance in Korean cuisine.
This annual event coincides with the period when Korean households traditionally prepare fresh batches of the iconic dish.
Made by fermenting vegetables like cabbage and radishes, kimchi is known for its tangy flavour and probiotic benefits.
Enthusiasts worldwide embrace Global Kimchi Day by savouring the spicy kick and complex flavours that have made kimchi an essential accompaniment to Korean meals.
The universe delights in cookies in December. — Filepic
Dec 4: Cookies
International Cookie Day highlights cookies of various shapes, textures and flavours.
From comforting chocolate chip cookies to festive gingerbread and intricately adorned holiday versions, there are infinite variations.
International Cookie Day celebrates the bliss of baking and sharing these delectable treats with loved ones.
It honours the tradition of cookie-making and the universal pleasure of enjoying these sweet creations.
Sources: uniquedestination.mitsishotels.com; justintimegourmet.com.au; juleeho.com; storeitaly.org; Times of India
