Category: Culinary etiquette

According to cheese experts, the bloomy white rind on Brie cheese is not only safe but also recommended for consumption, as it enhances the overall flavor and texture. Despite this culinary consensus, many people are still unsure whether or not to eat the rind of Brie, often removing it out of habit or misconception. This uncertainty has long been a topic of debate at dinner parties and cheese boards everywhere.

In many West African countries, fufu and other similar starchy staples are culturally classified as 'swallows,' indicating they are meant to be swallowed whole rather than chewed. This dining practice is central to the authentic experience of enjoying this beloved dish, though it may seem counterintuitive to those unfamiliar with the tradition.

In Japan, a first-time visitor might be surprised to discover that the vast majority of bottled green tea is unsweetened. So, do Japanese sweeten green tea? The traditional answer is a resounding no, with cultural and culinary reasons explaining this preference for pure, unadulterated flavor.

According to culinary experts, a 30-gram (or one-ounce) tin is often considered a perfect single-person portion for a truly immersive tasting experience or a generous appetizer for two. Is 30 grams of caviar a lot, or is it a perfectly standard amount for enjoying this luxury? The answer lies in context.

In the United States, Japanese restaurants typically serve miso soup as a starter. This Westernized practice, however, differs significantly from how miso is traditionally enjoyed in Japan, where it is an integral part of the meal, eaten alongside other dishes.

In Japan, audibly slurping noodles is a traditional sign of appreciation for the chef. When enjoying a steaming bowl of udon, the question, "Are you supposed to drink udon broth?" is a common curiosity for many Western diners, and the answer is rooted in centuries of custom and culinary practice.

According to the USDA, a single ounce (28g) of caviar contains 425mg of sodium, roughly 18% of the daily recommended intake. This statistic is just one reason why understanding how much caviar can one person eat is crucial for balancing pleasure and health, particularly due to its richness and high sodium content.

According to the FDA Food Code, bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods is generally prohibited in commercial settings unless specific safety procedures are followed. For the home chef, however, the rules are more lenient, so knowing what food can you touch with your bare hands is a matter of both safety and common sense.

A 2025 study found a link between frequent ramen consumption, especially drinking the salty broth, and increased health risks. So, are you supposed to drink the broth when eating ramen, or is it better for your health to leave it behind?