Last Updated on September 23, 2024
In the IELTS Speaking Test Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. For the topic “Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or special event in your country,” focus on addressing these key points:
- What the food is
- At which festival or event it’s eaten
- How it’s prepared
- Why you like it
Modak: Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or Special Event in Your Country
What the food is?
My favourite festival food is Modak which is specially prepared on Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a sweet, round dessert made of flour, jaggery, and nuts.
Which festival is it eaten on?
It’s traditionally prepared and offered during Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival celebrating Lord Ganesha.
How is it prepared?
Modak is crafted by creating a soft dough from rice flour or wheat flour, which is then shaped into a small pouch and filled with a mixture of freshly grated coconut and jaggery. The dumpling is then either steamed (Ukadiche Modak) or fried (Tallyache Modak).
Why I like it?
I love Modak because it reminds me of home and togetherness. Preparing Modak with family is a cherished tradition, and its association with Lord Ganesha’s blessings makes it even more special.
Biryani: Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or Special Event in Your Country
What the food is
My favourite festival dish is Biryani, one of the most fragrant dishes made by layering protein and rice together.
Which festival is it eaten on?
While Biryani is enjoyed year-round, it holds a special place in Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, marking the end of Ramadan.
How is it prepared?
Biryani is made by layering partially cooked basmati rice with marinated meat (usually chicken or mutton), aromatic spices, and herbs. The pot is then sealed and slow-cooked on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Why I like it?
I adore Biryani for its complex flavors and the way it brings people together. The aroma of saffron and spices fills the house, creating a festive atmosphere. Sharing a large plate of Biryani with family and friends embodies the spirit of Eid – joy, togetherness, and gratitude.
Gujiya: Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or Special Event in Your Country
What the food is?
While I am not a big fan of desserts, I thoroughly enjoy Pooran Poli or Gujiya on Holi, which is also known as the festival of colours.
Which festival is it eaten on?
While it’s enjoyed during various festivals, it’s particularly associated with Holi, the festival of colors, in many parts of India.
How is it prepared?
Puran Poli is made by stuffing a wheat flour dough with a sweet filling (puran) made from chana dal, jaggery, and cardamom. The stuffed dough is then rolled out and cooked on a griddle with ghee until golden brown.
Why I like it?
I’m fond of Puran Poli for its perfect blend of sweetness and subtle spices. Its soft texture and rich taste make it a comforting treat amidst the energetic Holi celebrations. Moreover, the process of making Puran Poli, often a family affair, adds to the festive spirit and creates lasting memories.
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Follow-up Questions and Answers: Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or Special Event in Your Country
- How important are traditional foods in preserving Indian cultural identity?
Traditional foods represent centuries of culinary heritage that are often tied to festivals. These dishes help pass down cultural values and stories across generations, something that helps in preserving every family’s values.
- Do you think festival foods in India are becoming less important in modern society?
Answer: I don’t think so. Many people, even in urban areas, make special efforts to prepare or obtain traditional dishes during festivals, viewing it as a way to connect with their cultural heritage.
- How has globalization affected traditional festival foods in India?
Answer: Globalization has had a multifaceted impact on Indian festival foods. It’s made exotic ingredients more accessible, allowing for more authentic preparations of regional dishes across India. Conversely, it’s also led to fusion versions of traditional foods, blending global influences with Indian flavors. This has both enriched our culinary landscape and challenged some traditional practices.
- Do you think it’s important for children in India to learn how to make traditional festival foods?
Answer: Absolutely. Teaching children to make traditional foods is vital for cultural continuity. It passes down not just recipes, but also values, family history, and important life skills. In our diverse country, knowing how to prepare traditional dishes kids retain the values of their elders and appreciate the sense of unity that comes with cooking.
- Do you think traditional Indian festival foods can be adapted for different dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free) without losing their cultural significance?
Answer: In my opinion, absolutely! Indian dishes are so diverse that they can be altered to suit every palette and preference. Be it sweet or spicy, every Indian dish can be tailor-made according to one’s cultural significance and traditions.
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