Global Influences

 When approached with the question, "How much of your food has global rather than local influences?" I had to pause. My first thought was of how my boys and I make fajitas and tacos ALL the time! That's Mexican, right? And all our pasta dishes? Italian! Of course, as I went a bit more below the surface, I of course realized that American versions of global foods isn't necessarily as global as we think it is. Do people living in Mexico make their tacos with Ortega pre-packaged shells and seasonings? I doubt it. Do they even eat tacos? I think they must, as tortillas are a staple for them, based upon my reading of South America and maize. But if I had to guess, I would think they use fresher ingredients. There's probably fresh, hand-made tortillas at the market. People probably make them at home all the time. And I doubt they buy a packet of seasoning to rip open. They probably use spices and fresh veggies. I make fish tacos, but it's frozen gluten free cod from Trader Joe's. Sure, I can get fresh fish tacos here on Cape Cod, but for some reason, I just don't think our tacos and fajitas and canned re-fried beans can compare to what the average Mexcian eats. 

The same goes for Italians. They don't just eat spaghetti and meatballs. And even though one of my previous posts talks about the kick-butt chicken piccata being made in this house, I'm guessing the real Italians eat meals I've never even heard of. Or cooked in ways I haven't imagined. I'd love to eat my way through Italy, but being gluten free and having a shell-fish allergy makes me afraid to travel at all anymore. 

I live on Cape Cod, and I know that the fish I buy locally is fresh. Prior to my shellfish allergy, I used to eat local scallops and lobster all the time. Shrimp was never local, but it's seafood, so does it really matter? I think it's weird how I've never liked clam chowder. But, I do love fresh fish. There's nothing like it. I don't have to wonder how many days it's been sitting in the market, or who touched it prior to me putting it in my mouth. When we catch it ourselves, and eat it the same day, it's not just eating...it's an experience. 

My friend has a lobster license. It's just recreational, not for selling them. It's cool because they can give them away to friends as gifts. I got some for my boys once. Talk about finding a gift for the person who has everything! Who would turn down a free lobster? 

We have a few other food items local to Cape Cod. Cranberries, salt water taffy, Cape Cod Potato Chips, Nantucket Nectar juices, Cape Cod Beer and a few other things. I really only partake in the chips, simply due to my taste buds. 

I suppose if I had to answer the original question, I'd have to say "No, my food choices do not have global influences." Writing that right now just made me feel a little bit deflated. Because, they should. I want them to. I should be exposing my boys to all types of foods, not just what I like. Hey, it's never too late to start, right?

This picture below is of Americanized tacos...

 
 
And below is a photo I found of the "10 Best Tacos in Tijuana." You decide!

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