Appetite Growing for Overseas Foods

With an increasing number of gourmets for foreign delicacies, foods on our kitchen table are featuring various imported ingredients.

“Many people are using imported seasonings, as foods with unique flavor and spices become increasingly popular,” said cooking instructor Kim Dong-kyu.

Dececco Pasta, Wellustid Sesame Dressing, Fountain Hot Chili Sauce and German Queen Dressing are some of the best selling seasonings in Korean department stores, as well as in the world.

“Since this pasta is made by cutting 30-40% of the surface of wheat, Italians also love its high quality, glutinous taste,” says Park Hwan Soon of Boratial, an importer of Italian Dececco Pasta.

Ingredients of food have also changed according to the trend of eating outside.

Last year, the popularity of Vietnam rice noodles increased the sales of sauce and seasoning made in Vietnam. This year’s vinegar boom motivated some customers to buy foreign made vinegar.

Japanese seasonings are steady sellers regardless of food trends.

About 80% of all time popular olive oil (22,809 ton, 2005) comes from Spain. Oil is made within 48 hours after harvested in Spain, then packaged in 20 ton barrels and delivered by a container ship. After arriving in Korea in two months, the olive oil is sold in bottles.

imsoo@donga.com