Delicacy
A delicacy is a rare food item that is considered highly desirable, sophisticated, or peculiarly distinctive within a given culture or region. A delicacy may have an unusual flavor or be expensive compared to standard staple foods.
Delicacies vary across countries, customs, and ages. Some delicacies are confined to a certain culture, such as fugu in Japan and ant larvae (escamoles) in Mexico, or may refer to specific local products, such as porcino, venison or anchovy.
Culture plays a role in determining what is considered a delicacy. The long-standing tradition and practice of insect consumption represented in Oaxaca, Mexico has occurred for centuries. The availability of foods or particular ingredients may determine the types of delicacies associated with different cultures.
Subjective factors
Delicacies are influenced by subjectivity which can be situational and cultural, with underlying taste and aroma factors. For example, cooked meats may form Maillard reaction products involving proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates among ingredients in a food delicacy, producing unique flavor and aroma qualities.[clarification needed]
See also
- Acquired taste
- Chinmi – Includes a list of Japanese delicacies
- Delicatessen
- Shaxian delicacies – a style of cuisine from Sha County, Sanming, Fujian, China
- Specialty foods