Introduction to Indian Food and Culture
India is a huge nation (over a million square miles) with wonderful variations in climate, geography, religion, and customs which have actually caused lots of regional variations in food preparation and cooking. Indian food reflects the colorful and diverse life led by its people. The temperate climate in the north means that lamb can be reared whereas in the humid tropical conditions of the southwest coconuts and bananas flourish. Society Around 70% of Indians work in farming and more than 50% are vegan: this is because many are too poor to buy meat and also because religion has a very solid influence on the Indian diet plan. There are numerous different religions, many with their own customs and taboos. As an example, Hindus and Sikhs are prohibited from consuming beef. Alcohol is also taboo. Traditional foodstuffs Fish is easily available in the east around the Bay of Bengal and coconuts grow here in the hot and damp climate. Pulses and vegetables are grown in th...