Ninth International Conference on Food Studies

Abstract

In this paper my focus will be on cultural markers, such as local ingredients, festive occasions, own customs, history, and the terroir—essence of a place—to define the symbolic and social components that food plays in the construction of a unique identity of a nation. Brazil is well-known for its vast forests and large urban areas. Home of the largest portion of the rain forest and home of the largest city of South America and 11th largest city in world, Brazil contrasts wilderness and urban areas; history and traditions, richness and poverty, modern and old, local and national festivities. This paper explores the role of that ethnicity, race, class, gender, and geographical features play for us to understand the cuisine of Brazil. I will address the concept of nationality and its co-existence of regional identity on the topic of food.