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A Caribbean mainstay, cassava bread has its roots in African and Indigenous customs.
Eleven international cuisines are on this year’s list.
UNESCO has released the 2024 list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, celebrating the connection between food, culture, and legacy. The list highlights culinary traditions from around the world, showcasing the craftsmanship and cultural significance of various nations. This year, eleven international cuisines are featured in the list, honouring the communities that have preserved these culinary practices for generations.
From delectable soups to age-old fermentation techniques, these traditions not only protect culinary customs but also serve as a reminder of the deeper meaning of food as a medium for connection, history, and storytelling. Here are the picks from the UNESCO 2024 list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
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Sake (Japan) – Japan’s sake, the traditional rice wine, has been an integral part of cultural celebrations and ceremonies for centuries. When brewed with care, sake symbolizes harmony, tradition, and the artistry of fermentation.
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Cassava Bread (Caribbean) – A staple in the Caribbean, cassava bread has its origins in African and Indigenous traditions. Made from cassava tubers, this versatile bread varies in flavour and texture across countries like Haiti, Cuba, and Venezuela. Its preparation is a communal practice, passed down through generations, fostering unity and cultural pride.
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Arabic coffee (Arab Nations) – Arabic coffee has been recognized by UNESCO as a symbol of charity, hospitality, and tradition throughout the Arab world. Commonly brewed in countries like Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, its preparation and presentation highlight the importance of social rituals and shared cultural heritage.
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Breakfast Culture (Malaysia) – Malaysian morning customs, such as Roti Canai, Teh Tarik, and Nasi Lemak, bring together diverse groups across ethnic divides. This common legacy, which represents the nation’s heterogeneous identity, promotes social cohesiveness and pride.
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Attieke (Ivory Coast) – Ivorian cuisine has documented this fermented cassava meal dish. The communal lunch dish promotes a respect for traditional culinary techniques and community
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Tom Yum Kung(Thailand) – Tom Yum Kung is a traditional Thai soup that balances strong flavours with therapeutic herbs. The distinction of cultural recognition and significance in achieving Thai uniqueness in their food has been bestowed upon by UNESCO.
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Mulgi Puder (Estonia) – This hearty meal of mashed barley and potatoes is a culinary symbol of the Mulgimaa area of Estonia. To improve its flavour, families frequently boil it over several days. This cuisine promotes sustainable food practices and traditional culinary techniques while uniting people.
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Azerbaijan Tandir Bread (Azerbaijan) – This bread is a key element of Azerbaijani culture, traditionally baked in tandirs, which are earthenware ovens. It symbolizes connections to family, customs, and a deep respect for food. The bread-making process is a cherished tradition that strengthens communal bonds and generates income.
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Minas Cheese (Brazil) – Pingo, a special natural yeast, and raw milk are used to make this handmade cheese from Minas Gerais, Brazil. The cheese, which has a unique flavour and scent, is a tribute to sustainable farming methods and rural customs. It is frequently served during get-togethers and festivities and is a sign of hospitality and camaraderie.
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Asturian Cider (Spain) – Asturias’s cider culture honours the bond between rural communities and their surroundings. This tradition, which includes everything from apple farming to cider-pouring customs, represents sustainability, community service, and local pride.
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Jang (Korea) – A staple of Korean cooking is Jang, a fermented sauce produced from soybeans. Its creation, which is based on tradition and environmental sensitivity and is used in many different recipes, demonstrates the knowledge and ingenuity of Korean people.
UNESCO has recognised these culinary traditions highlighting how food serves as a universal cultural anchor. The list celebrates the richness of human heritage while ensuring the survival of these foods for future generations.
