Q 01/05

What Japanese word refers to thinly sliced raw fish served on its own?

A) Teriyaki

B) Nigiri

C) Sashimi

D) Tataki

Answer · why

C) Sashimi

Sashimi means 'pierced flesh' in Japanese, and unlike sushi, which is defined by vinegared rice rather than raw fish, it is always served on its own.

Q 02/05

Which spice gives curry powder its distinctive yellow color?

A) Cumin

B) Turmeric

C) Coriander

D) Ginger

Answer · why

B) Turmeric

Turmeric's yellow pigment, curcumin, is also what gives American yellow mustard its bright colour.

Q 03/05

What type of pasta is shaped like small ear-shaped discs?

A) Farfalle

B) Orecchiette

C) Penne

D) Rigatoni

Answer · why

B) Orecchiette

Orecchiette literally means 'little ears' in Italian. This pasta shape originates from the Puglia region of southern Italy and is traditionally served...

Q 04/05

Which espresso drink is topped with just a small spot of milk foam?

A) Cortado

B) Macchiato

C) Flat white

D) Ristretto

Answer · why

B) Macchiato

Macchiato means 'stained' or 'spotted' in Italian: the espresso is marked with only a spot of milk, so it stays far stronger than a cortado.

Q 05/05

What is miso, the ingredient that gives Japanese miso soup its name?

A) Fermented fish paste

B) Pickled plum paste

C) Fermented soybean paste

D) Dried seaweed powder

Answer · why

C) Fermented soybean paste

Miso is a fermented soybean paste made with salt and koji, and during Japan's Sengoku wars it was prized as military rations.