Despite the growing controversy about the content and ingredients of fast food, there is no doubt that this mode of eating is globally popular. Wherever people have gathered and formed communities throughout the world it appears that the growth of fast foods has not been far behind and, contrary to the belief of many, it is not a phenomenon that has simply developed in the past few decades. Leaving aside the issues of health and nutrition for another time and another place, this article is intended to take you on a brief journey across a range of nations to provide you with an insight into the fast food favourites that grace the taste buds of the their populations. Let us travel from east to west across the globe, starting from the UK.
Although over the past two decades the variety of fast food outlets in the UK has expanded dramatically to include imports from the US and Far East, still perhaps the most popular is the indigenous fish and chips. With both the fish and chips fried in deep batter and served, until recently, in paper wrapping, the fish and chip has been fast food delight for people in this country since the Second World War. For many of the older generation it is particularly seen as a Friday night treat, a habit that arose partially because Friday's were pay day and also fuelled by the Catholic habit of not eating meat on this day. With a range of fish to choose from and served best with added salt and vinegar, a fish and chip feast is a must for any visiting tourist. Other fast food delights in the UK include hot-dogs stands, which basically serve sausages and onions laced with either mustard or tomato sauce and served in a bread roll and can be found at most markets and outdoor events, and the pie and mash shops.
Across the 'pond' our next stop is the USA. To the outside world at least, the USA is perhaps seen as the diamond in the global crown in terms of its fast food choices, almost all of which have now been exported throughout the world. There is a fast food in this country to cater for almost every taste and palette. Perhaps though, it is the burgers that hold pride of place in the US fast food hall of fame. Brands such as McDonald's and Burger King are instantly recognised wherever one travels in this vast continent and indeed beyond. The burger, a round piece of well cooked beef, covered with a layer of salads and spread and, perhaps, a slice of cheese, are a favourite with all generations. Second in place with Fast Food US style has to be the fried chicken option, made famous by KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken). Served in a box with fries and a drink this offering has also become a favourite fast food snack. Added to these delights are ranges of other fast food outlets that have evolved from the foods of other countries.
Spin the globe a little further and we reach the country with the world's largest population, China. In the west when we think of Chinese foods we tend to be considering rice or noodle based dishes with meats and vegetable content, such as chow mein's, stir fry's and special varieties of fried rice. Whilst these are found in China, amongst some of the most popular dishes with its indigenous populations are the noodle based dishes, which can be served as either meat or vegetarian style meals. In addition, some of the meats that are used within the fast food in China might be found unusual to the western palette. For example the 'seagull meat stew' is not a taste that many would be use to.
As with Chinese food, the fast food cuisine of one of the neighbouring countries a little way to its west, namely India, has also become well known and sought after in western nations. India is naturally considered the home of curry's of all sorts, be these meat, game or vegetarian based. However, within the country there is a range of other fast foods available within retail areas and street markets. These include samosas, which are wraps filled with delicious meats, chicken or vegetable in sources, paani, and poori dishes. In addition there is the Kati roll, which is a paratha stuffed with veggies or spicy potato, minced lamb or tandoori chicken chunks and spiced up with a mysterious sauce.
Next we will move across to the Mediterranean, where the fast food of two countries will make your mouth water. First of these is Italy, home of pasta dishes, pizza and spaghetti. Some pasta dishes are sold in vending machines in this country. In addition there is a fast food chain called Spizzico, which delivers amazing varieties of pizza and, if your preference is a Panini, which is an Italian version of the sandwich, these are also on offer throughout many fast food outlets.
Next stop in the Mediterranean area is Spain. Not widely known for its fast foods, Spain does have two fast foods which the tourist must try. The most popular of these is the easily prepared paella. This is a rice based dish that can contain either meats, game, such as rabbit, or fish. It often comprises of left-over foods from previous meals. However, Spain also has the Tapas, a snack food that can be eaten either in bars or as a take-away. Tapas are variety of different small dishes on display in glass cool cabinets placed around the bars. These can include fish, such as anchovies, olives, potato salads and other vegetable or meats. For an easy snack, the Spanish also like the Bocadillo, which can be compared to a more basic version of the subway.
As can be seen from the above, there is a veritable range of different and interesting fast foods available throughout the world. Due to space constraints, this article has only been able to cover a small fraction of its nearly 200 countries. However, even from this tiny selection the diversity of culinary delights available to the world traveller will be apparent.