Fermentation is typically often perceived as something disgusting and we tend to only recognise fermented foods from other cultures/cuisines as such, while the fermented foods of our own culture are perceived as ordinary foods.
Fermented food is what really defines and distinguishes the cuisines.
As a westerners, we find certain types of fermented fish, eggs or vegetables disgusting, but happily eat our cheese that in turn will be thought to be disgusting by many Chinese.
Fermented foods come in many varieties and are absolute staples of our daily food. Examples include
- Bread
- Cheese
- Coffee
- Chocolate
- Beer/Wine
- Salami
- Some types of fish
- Soy/Fish sauce
and many more.