Mangoes

A Shared Tropical Delight

Appears in
Radikal Kitchen: Flavours without Borders

By Radhika Howarth

Published 2024

  • About
India, Indonesia and Vietnam
The cultural and culinary tapestry of India, Indonesia, and Vietnam is intricately woven with threads of history, religion, and shared flavours. The Indian influence in these regions was primarily driven by the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism, which significantly shaped their cultural and religious landscapes.
In ancient times, the spread of these religions from India to Southeast Asia played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual and cultural identities of Indonesia and Vietnam. For instance, the island of Bali in Indonesia predominantly follows Hinduism, which has deeply influenced local customs, rituals, and cuisine. In Vietnam, Buddhist practices have significantly influenced the cultural fabric of the land, leading to the development of a vegetarian cuisine that aligns with the religious principles of both Buddhism and Hinduism. Temples and religious festivals often feature dishes that reflect this rich heritage.