The world is a lot smaller than we think it is nowadays. Sure, the distance is still there, but culturally we are all a lot closer to each other, and this means that different and disparate culinary traditions are now spread all over the world.

You can enjoy Indian food in London, Chinese food in Dublin and Middle Eastern food in Berlin without thinking anything of it, but for many this melting pot of cultures has allowed for a great new culinary tradition to develop: Fusion Cuisine.

Fusion Cuisine basically means combining the traditional cooking of two or more regions or countries. It is an idea that is most popular with Asian food, with Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese lending themselves particularly well to the mixing process. Only a fool would stop here though, as fusion cooking has proved incredibly successful when very unusual combinations are implemented.

Mexican and Italian Food Fusions

While geographically very distant, both Mexico and Italy have clashed culturally in America. This proximity has allowed the food to be fused in new and exciting ways. One of the most successful fusions of Mexican and Italian food has been the taco pizza: a traditionally prepared pizza but with Mexican-style toppings including pepper jack cheese and refried beans. These two traditions have also clashed with others, including Japanese, resulting in Mexican and Italian sushi variations.

Progressive Asian Fusion

The most innovative cooks seem to be mostly active in Asian food though, as throughout the world new eating establishments are opening up dedicated to new and creative spins on traditional Asian cuisine, and even some celebrity chefs are jumping on board. Who knows what kind of combinations we’ll see in the future, but with the courage to try new things, we are sure to find something amazing.