Showing posts with label Food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Food. Show all posts

20 July 2012

Eating Disorder

Here is a serious look at the Top 10 most terrible eating disorders which are predominantly characterized by bizarre food and mental disorders that bring about various abnormal eating behaviors.(Click on sub title for more)

Anorexia Nervosa
Latest studies have shown that there is about 1 in every 100 teenage girls who suffer from varying degrees of Anorexia Nervosa. There are even girls as young as 8 years old who have been hospitalized for this eating disorder.

Bulimia Nervosa
This eating disorder is characterized by binge and purge episodes where the individual usually resort to induced vomiting to complete the cycle.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder
BDD is a corollary disorder that is normally associated with Anorexia and Bulimia and often continues to manifest in the behavior of an individual long after the other symptoms have been successfully controlled.

Night Eating Syndrome
NES is relatively new eating disorder that commonly affects the obese and the morbidly obese. Night Eating Syndrome sufferers also experience insomnia.

Anorexia Athletica
This is technically not classified as an eating disorder but an effect of another validated serious eating disorder. Their predominant behavior goes beyond the normal inclination of most of us after a good session in the gym.

Binge Eating Disorder
BED is generally categorized as a separate condition from bulimia. It is generally believed to be the pre-cursor of the latter and is the most common eating disorder.

Bigorexia
This eating disorder is generally defined as the direct opposite of anorexia and is the only eating disorder in our list that affects more men than women.

Pica
This is the most interesting among all the eating disorders in our list. Pica is generally seen as both a psychiatric problem and eating disorder. It is characterized by the unmitigated compulsion to eat non-food and non-nutritional stuffs.

Prader-Willi Syndrome
This eating disorder is mainly due to chromosomal abnormality. Its common symptoms include mental retardation, motor skill anomaly and stunted growth.

Orthorexia
This eating disorder is characterized by the obsession with healthy foods. As a distinction to anorexia, those individual suffering from orthorexia exhibit an abnormal level of obsession to pure and healthy foods.

Bizarre Diners

Fine dining and cooking are always associated to life’s greatest pleasures. This article will break this tradition by presenting to you interesting weirdest restaurants.

Nyotaimori Restaurant
There is this unique practice in Japanese dining scene known as Nyotaimori. This involves the use of naked bodies mostly of women as the food serving medium. This live sushi platter, if you can call one as such, undergoes extensive training before he or she is made to lie down the table for long hours and totally immobilized while diners feast on their favorite food and everything that goes with it.
Hitler’s Cross Cafe
The Hitler’s Cross is a famous café located in Mumbai, India. It takes on the Third Reich theme quite seriously and even displays prominently the swastika in the restaurant’s logo. However, because of the intense pressure from Israeli and German diplomats and the ADL, the restaurant’s name was later changed to “The Cross.”
Modern Toilet Restaurant
There is really a Taiwanese restaurant that goes by the name Modern Toilet. Diners are made to seat on a stylish toilet, with the lid down, which has renaissance, seashells or roses accents. The dishes are served in mini-toilet bowls and drinks in plastic urinal which customers can take home as their souvenir.
New Lucky Restaurant
The New Lucky Restaurant is the opulent and bustling dining place in Ahmadabad. It is famous for its specialties, the graves, buttered rolls and milky tea in between tables. This unique restaurant was built at the very spot where an ancient Muslim cemetery is sited.
Christian Reataurant Shinjuku
Christian beliefs and practices are still considered novelties in Japan. This is the main reason why a Christian-themed restaurant was established in Shinjuku. The Christian Café makes a striking image of habitués drinking cocktails in a party place predominated by elements that are associated with the Christian faith.
Hobbit House Manila
The brains behind this concept restaurant believed that great things come in small packages and sizes. The Hobbit House is located along the busy Malate district of Manila. The Hobbit Restaurant is managed and operated entirely by midgets.
Dinner in the Sky
The Dinner in the Sky is the perfect choice for those who want to get a new high from their dining experience. The diners of this unique restaurant are seated around an enormous table that is perched at high altitude being suspended from a powerful crane. This is a must for those who want to eat with the adrenaline rush.
Eternity Restaurant
If you like to experience dining while being surrounded by caskets, then your dream can be realized in the famous Eternity restaurant in the Polish border town of Truskavets. If you enjoy this morbid dining experience, then this coffin house must be included in your itinerary.
Dick’s Last Resort
Dick’s Last Resort is a small restaurant and bar in the US which was made famous by its open and liberal use of obscene and obnoxious designs and vulgar staff. If you want some real rough treatment in your dining experience, then nothing can beat Dick’s Last Resort.
Dans Le Noir
The literal meaning of the French term “Dans le Noir” is “in the dark.” This is basically what the experience is all about. You will literally be made to enjoy, if that is possible, your dining experience in total darkness

Sushi Myth

Sushi is the most misunderstood food item. Many friends will not go to a sushi restaurant because they do not like raw meat. Many people also complain that sushi and sashimi are cut too thin and too small. This article desires to answer some questions many people have when it comes to sushi; dispelling the myths.

Myth 1: All sushi are raw:
Truth: No. In fact not all sushi are made and served raw. Unagi (eel) sushi and also kani (crab meat) sushi are examples of non-raw meat. The unagi, specifically, is barbecued and served on a bed of rice.

Myth 2: The thicker the sushi, the better is the restaurant serving it:
Truth: This is not always the case. Sushi is judged by the perfection of the sushi chef’s cut. All sushi must be cut thinly and at an angle. Chefs go through special training and have to master the art of cutting sushi. Those that cut thick slices are not master chefs; thus it makes the quality low.

Myth 3: Sushi restaurants do not serve vegetarians:
Truth: There are vegetarian maki sushi rolls filled with yam, cucumbers and avocado. There are also vegetarian sushi restaurant, which are in the culinary business of mimicking real fish. Remember, it’s not real fish, it’s vegetarian made with tofu and food colouring.

Myth 4: Sushi is eaten only with chopsticks:
Truth: It is very easy to use chopsticks and pick up sticky rice with them. Many restaurants and website guides would be happy to show you how to hold chopsticks properly. If you still cannot use chopsticks, a fork or even hands are fine.

Myth 5: The soy sauce served with sushi causes infertility/sterility:
Truth: Statistics show you need to drink 12 oz or 60g of soy sauce per month in order to be effected by mimicking estrogen levels and infertility/sterility. Most humans do not come close to such numbers.

Myth 6: You can get mercury poisoning from sushi:
Truth: Like all other foods, you need to eat sushi on a sporadic basis. This means that you cannot eat it everyday. Many fish like tuna and salmon have high mercury levels. It is best to check the guide on mercury levels per fish if you would like to know more information. If you eat sushi once a week or even twice per week, you are at low risk of getting mercury poisoning.

Myth 7: You can die from eating raw fish from sushi:
Truth: Again, as said before, everything needs to be eaten at a good proportion. Too much is not good for you and your health. If you eat too much, you will have major consequences.

Myth 8: Japanese Restaurant only serve sushi:
Truth: Sushi is not only Japanese food. Many Korean restaurants serve the dish as well. Many Japanese restaurants also have other specialties like teriyaki, teppanyaki, soups and small appetizers such as miso soup and kani salad.

Myth 9: Sushi is not healthy as the rice is starched:
Truth: No, this is not the case. The wasabi is excellent for cleaning out your stomach. The seaweed, which many sushi rolls are wrapped in, is healthy as well. It has important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Myth 10: Pregnant women should not eat sushi:
Truth: Sushi is not only made with raw fish. Pregnant women are advised against eating raw meat sushi because of the bacterial issues. However, they are allowed to eat seaweed and vegetarian maki sushi rolls. Thus, women are allowed to eat in sushi restaurants. It is all about the type of sushi they eat while in the restaurant.

Tasty Dishes of the World

It is often said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Whereas, there are those who may want to debate the issue, the fact is it holds water not just to a man but to women too. Each society has its own culture that relates to food. There are some that have gained fame internationally, such as, Indian, Chinese and French cuisines. If you can’t find these locally, and love to travel, you need to make a point to try out the following tasty cuisines.

French Cuisine
Beginning with the Middle Years that which brought about plentiful feast to the French Revolution, where sophisticated methodologies were applied, French cuisine can be referred to as in the 21st as the “haute cuisine”. It is as widespread as the poetry. A hearty French meal can be compared to as a day at the theaters. One of the dominant components of French cooking is pastries. Cheese and Wine are also known to accompany a French meal. Contemporary restaurants get their inspirations from French culture.
Italian Cuisine
At number two and one of the oldest cuisines in the globe is Italian cuisine. Its roots can be traces to as early as the 4th century. It is regarded as part of the present century discoveries. It is regarded as the first cuisine to make use of multiple ingredients in its preparation, i.e. maize, pasta, potatoes, meat and tomato pepper amongst others.
Chinese Cuisine
Owing its roots to various parts of China, Chinese cuisine is on of the most sort after and eaten cuisine in the world today. Recent statistics reveal that it is consumed by a third of the population in the globe each day. The cuisine is the simplest to make, inexpensive and above all sumptuous. A majority of the meal is made in bite-size bits since the Chinese culture consider forks and knives to be weapons. Normally, each person sited at the table is handed a bowl of rice whereas the other foods are shared by all who are on the table. There are those meals that are prepared from endangered species, e.g. facai moss and some from animals you will want to avoid at all cost, e.g. dogs
Indian Cuisine
If there is a stylish and assorted cuisine the world over, then it has to be the Indian Cuisine. There is no part of the world where you will go to and miss the tasty Indian Cuisine. Indian foods are also referred to as Punjabi. Indian cuisines are divided into three main categories, i.e. South, East and West. Whereas there are those which are vegetarian, due to changing culture and the need to appeal to a global audience, there are some Indian dishes that include chicken, goat, fish and lamb meats. A distinct feature of Indian cuisine is the hot flavor. If it is your first time to eating spicy Indian food, it is recommended that you begin slowly.
Thai Cuisine
After tasting the Thai food made of hot, acerbic, tart and sweet taste, you will want to visit the country and see its rich culture. The dishes are identified by the utilization of fresh herbs and savors that range from fresh coriander to lime juice. It bears close resemblance to most Asian cuisines and as such, has rice as one of the main components. Some of the popular aspects of Thai cuisine include raw beef, fried insect larvae and tumult fish.

Mexican Cuisine
Mexican cuisines are well known for its range of flavors and spices. Its roots can be traced to the Spanish culture. A majority of the dishes are prepared according to the Spanish culture. Some of the meat dishes included in the Mexican cuisine include iguana, deer, monkey and rattle snake.
Japanese Cuisine
At number seven and fast gaining popularity worldwide is the Japanese cuisine. It is renowned for making food that appeal to a specific time of the year. The meat is well prepared though you can expect some raw food in the prepared dish.
Spanish Cuisine
Unlike other cuisines, the Spanish cuisine makes use of several types of meat, fish and seafood. Nonetheless, the type of seafood in your dish hinges on its availability from the immediate waters. In addition, it use of excess oil, distinguishes it from other neighboring cuisines. The food is accompanied by a popular local drink referred to as sangria.
Greek Cuisine
The Greek cuisine derives its source form the Turkish and Italian culture. The meat is prepared using olive oil and particular herbs that are only found from the Mediterranean area
Lebanese Cuisine
If you happen to be traveling to the Middle East, then the Lebanese Cuisine will offer you a sumptuous treat. The foods, i.e. meat and vegetables are basically Mediterranean. One of the most popular Lebanese dishes known world over is the appetizer mezze. The food is accompanied by lots of fresh fish and other sea food. It is also characterized by the presence of animal fat.
You do not have to travel the world to taste the above cuisine. Thanks to globalization, you can now pop into a restaurant serving the above cuisine and have a bite.

World cuiSINes

The immense number of cuisines which could be a part of this list is evidence of the fact that the world is getting smaller day by day. As more and more people move from their countries to a foreign country they carry their cuisines and recipes with them, and they introduce their friends and neighbours to new dishes and a new style of cooking.

Here are some of the world’s most popular cuisines:

Chinese:There is probably a Chinese restaurant in every part of the world, and every country has adapted this cuisine to suit their particular taste buds. Chinese noodles and fried rice have become a part of the weekly menus in many homes, and they are America’s most popular take home items. The true Chinese food fans have even learnt how to eat with chopsticks to get the true Chinese experience. Easy to cook and fairly economical, it is believed that one third of the world eats Chinese food every day.
Italian:Pizzas and pasta have contributed to make this one of the world’s most popular cuisines. Today it has moved much beyond the simple pizza to specialised Italian restaurants which serve finest Italian entree’s and their fabulous desserts. With over 400 types of cheese, they have introduced the world to the amazing versatility of cheese as a primary food ingredient.
Indian:The ever popular chicken curry and chicken tikka masala are among the world’s most popular dishes. Indian cuisine is of many types, but most people in the world associate it with just curry and biryani and naan, which are basically recipes from the northern regions of India. However with the growing number of Indian restaurants everywhere, people are beginning to sample other forms of Indian food such as dosas from the south, pohe from the west and maach from the east.
French:French cuisine has always been considered to be among the best in the world, but it has not achieved the popularity of the Chinese and Italian cuisines. However their restaurants are among the finest in the world and they have influenced many cuisines all over the world. Wine is an essential part of all their meals and they set the standard for stylish cooking and serving.
Thai:Many people tend to equate Thai food with Chinese food, but there is a world of difference between the two. The Thai green and red curries are very popular and their balanced fusion of hot, sour and sweet ingredients makes for great combinations. True Thai food is made with fresh herbs and rice is one their main staples.
Spanish:A sangria accompanying the delicious variety of Spanish food is one of the joys of this world. Spanish cooking is mainly done with olive oil, and the diverse assortment of seafood available, and the range of Tapas offered as an appetizer have all contributed towards the popularity of this cuisine.
Japanese:Lightly cooked, with a minimal number of spices and ingredients, Japanese cooking is rapidly becoming all the rage. Judging from its popularity their signature dish seems to be sushi, but there are many other dishes which have become part of folklore.
American:There is really no benchmark for American cuisine, but with the popularity of burgers and fried chicken and apple pies, American cuisine has also become very popular the world over. Most of these have achieved their fame due to the advent of fast food chains which have traversed across the nations. You may not feel it is the world’s best food, but it certainly is among the most sought after.
Mexican:A combination of Spanish food and ancient Mexican traditions, food from Mexico has an abundance of flavours and spices. Guacamole and Tacos, Enchiladas and Tortillas have become popular standard fare at Mexican restaurants. Mexican food has a taste all of its own and many consider it to be among the best in the world.
Lebanese:Among Middle Eastern cuisines, Lebanese cuisine is considered to be the most popular.  Full of distinctive flavours and spices, with delectable combinations of vegetables and spices, Lebanese cuisine blends Mediterranean influences with Middle Eastern traditions. Ranging from appetizers such as mezze to dishes such as the Shawarma and sweets such as Baklawa, you are sure to find something you will like.

Popular THAI Dishes

The South-East Asian country, Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations today. Every year, thousands of tourists from different parts of the world visit this country to spend a memorable vacation. There are several reasons that have added to the popularity of this country. The wide range of activities and affordable holiday deals are obviously the most important reasons behind tourist attractions. Nowadays, many companies have established their offices in Thailand, and the country also attracts numerous people for professional reasons. Whether you are planning a trip to Thailand for professional reasons, or just for an entertaining holiday, you should taste the mouthwatering dishes offered here. Whether you are in Phuket, Bangkok or Pattaya, you should taste the Thai dishes in your trip. Thai cuisines have received immense popularity among the tourists. If you do not check out the dishes, your trip will certainly remain incomplete. However, if you do not have any idea of the popular Thai dishes, and do not want to take a chance with unknown cuisines.

Pad Thai Or Fried Noodle
Pad Thai or the fried noodle preparation is one of the most popular Thai dishes.  Prepared with vegetables, fish sauce, eggs, tamarind juice, crushed peanuts, red chili pepper and other seasonings, Pad Thai is available in almost all eateries. However, for the best taste, you should opt for the fresh cooked noodles.
Kang Keaw Wan Kai or Chicken Curry(Green)
The name might not initially allow you to experiment with the dish. However, if you taste it, you will surely like this little spicy and sweet chicken curry. Prepared with sugar, fish sauce, coconut milk and green chili paste, this chicken curry is an excellent side dish with rice.
Tom Kha Kai  Or Chicken In Coconut Milk Soup
Tom Kha Kai is one of the most popular chicken soups offered in Thailand. Prepared with different types of edible herbs, this soup is high on nutritional values. If you prefer non-spicy dish, this is for you. Yet, if you want you can get it seasoned with fish sauce, lime and chili.
Tom Yam Goong or Spicy Shrimp Soup
When you are in Thailand, you should taste shrimp preparations at least once. The sour and spicy, Tom Yam Goong is one of the traditional dishes of Thailand, and is known to be the most popular shrimp soups prepared in Thailand. You can undoubtedly refer it as the signature dish of this country.
Tom Yam Gai  or Chicken Soup(Spicy)
The clear chicken soup, Tom Yam Gai enjoys popularity among people who are not very much fond of the shrimp dishes. Though this is a less spicy soup, you can add fish sauce, chili and lime seasonings to make it delicious.
Panaeng or Meat in Spicy Coconut Cream
If you are looking for beef or pork dishes, Panaeng is for you. The sweet and spicy dish can be prepared with pork, beef and even chicken. This preparation is best served with steamed rice. Similar to Thai red curry, it has a rich and thick gravy, which makes it perfect side-dish with rice.
Moo Sa-Te or Grilled Pork Sticks with Turmeric
Moo Sa-Te is also a popular pork recipe in Thailand. Curry powder and turmeric sauce, when added to grilled pork brings a mouthwatering taste. If you want to taste some yummy pork preparations, you should not miss this dish. Served with saucy dips, this dish is available in almost all the restaurants.
Som Tam or Spicy Papaya Salad
Spicy Papaya Salad or Som Tam is known for its sour and spicy flavor. This spicy salad is prepared with fresh vegetables like tomato, beans and papaya. Served with sticky rice and grilled chicken, Som Tam will surely make you fall in love with Thai cuisines.
Gai Pad Met Mamuang or Cashew Nuts In Stir-Fried Chicken
Gai Pad Met Mamuang does not match with the conventional Thai dishes. Yet, it is one of the most popular Thai preparations. The salty and sweet fried chicken and cashew nut is best for someone who is not fond of spicy or sour dishes. It is also ideal for children.
Por Pia Tord or Fried Spring Roll
If you are looking for the perfect appetizer, fried spring roll or the Por Pia Tord is for you. Served with sweet and sour sauce, this appetizer is not very spicy, and will not affect your diet chart to a great extent.