Question 17: Describe an unusual food you’ve tried. You should say:
– What is the food, and where did you try it?
– How did you feel about tasting it?
– What are the ingredients, and how is it prepared?
– Would you try it again?
Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre
One of the most unusual foods I’ve ever tried was fried grasshopper. I had the opportunity to taste this unconventional delicacy during a visit to Nagaland, my wife’s hometown in Northeast India. It was an experience that left me with a mix of initial disgust and later intrigue.
Grasshoppers are typically consumed by the local community only during the rice harvesting season. They are considered a seasonal treat, as consuming them at other times can be potentially dangerous due to their susceptibility to pesticides and other toxins. The villagers have a unique method of catching these creatures. They venture out into the fields at night with torches, which attract the grasshoppers, and then they skilfully catch them.
The grasshoppers are cleaned and prepared for cooking by removing their legs and wings. They are then seasoned and marinated before being fried to a crispy texture. The thought of eating insects was initially off-putting, and I was quite disgusted at the sight of these creatures. However, my curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try.
Upon my first bite, I was surprised by the intriguing taste. The fried grasshoppers had a delightful crunchiness and a unique blend of flavours from the seasonings. It was unlike anything I had ever tried before, and I found myself wanting to have more. The locals in Nagaland enjoyed these snacks, and their enthusiasm was infectious.
While I may not have been entirely comfortable with the idea of eating insects, the experience broadened my culinary horizons and gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity of food cultures around the world. It taught me that what may seem unusual or even unappealing at first glance can turn out to be a surprisingly delightful gastronomic adventure.
If the opportunity arises in the future, I would certainly be open to trying fried grasshoppers again. It’s a unique and memorable food experience from Nagaland, my wife’s place, that I wouldn’t mind revisiting.
List of vocabulary used:
- Unusual – Not common, different, or unexpected.
- Delicacy – A rare or luxurious food item that is often considered a treat.
- Disgust – A strong feeling of dislike or revulsion.
- Intrigue – Aroused curiosity or interest.
- Seasonal treat – A food item available or consumed only during a particular time of year.
- Susceptibility – The likelihood of being harmed or affected by something.
- Toxins – Harmful substances that can cause health issues.
- Harvesting – Collecting crops when they are ripe.
- Venturing – Going on a risky or daring journey.
- Marinated – Soaked in a seasoned liquid to enhance flavour.
- Crunchiness – The quality of being crisp and making a sound when bitten.
- Seasonings – Ingredients like herbs and spices used to add flavour to food.
- Culinary – Related to cooking or the kitchen.
- Horizons – The limit of one’s knowledge, experience, or interest.
- Diversity – A range of different things, often referring to variety in cultures or ideas.
- Gastronomic – Relating to the art and science of food and eating.
- Enthusiasm – Intense interest or enjoyment.
- Revisiting – Experiencing something again, often for nostalgic or enjoyable reasons.
- Broadened – Expanded or widened in scope or experience.
- Memorable – Worth remembering or easily remembered.
Phrases and Idioms:
- Left me with a mix of initial disgust and later intrigue – Created conflicting feelings of revulsion and curiosity.
- Only during the rice harvesting season – Restricted to a specific time when rice is gathered.
- Thought of eating insects – The concept or idea of consuming insects.
- Curiosity got the better of me – My interest outweighed my hesitation or reluctance.
- Broadened my culinary horizons – Expanded my experience and understanding of different cuisines.
- A deeper appreciation for diversity – A more profound respect for the variety in cultures or practices.
- What may seem unusual… can turn out delightful – Things that appear strange at first can become enjoyable.
- Enthusiasm was infectious – The excitement of others influenced me positively.
- Gastronomic adventure – A unique and exciting experience involving food.
- Wouldn’t mind revisiting – Open to experiencing something again, especially if it was enjoyable.
IELTS Speaking Task Topics
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Names
Learn about the importance of names and their cultural significance.
Study / Job
Discuss various aspects of studying and working in different fields.
Hometown
Explore the charm of your hometown and its unique features.
Accomodation
Understand various types of accommodation and living situations.
Weather
Learn about how weather influences daily life and activities.
Time
Discuss the concept of time, its importance, and time management.
Television
Talk about the role of television in modern entertainment.
Museum
Discuss the cultural importance of museums and historical exhibits.
Holidays
Explore the significance of holidays and different celebrations.
Films
Learn about the impact of films on culture and society.
Leisure Time
Discuss how leisure activities impact personal well-being.
Sport
Talk about the role of sports in health, entertainment, and culture.
Vegetables and Fruits
Discuss the health benefits and importance of fresh produce.
Maths
Explore the role of mathematics in various aspects of life.
Sky
Discuss the beauty and scientific significance of the sky.
Clothes&Fashion
Explore how clothing reflects culture and personal expression.
Weekend
Discuss the importance of weekends and ways people relax.
Reading
Learn about the importance of reading and various reading habits.
Sleep
Explore how sleep impacts physical and mental well-being.
Trees&Plants
Discuss the environmental and health benefits of plants.
Newspaper
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Texting
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Memorising
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Travelling
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Communication
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Letter&Email
Explore the differences and significance of letters vs. emails.
Swimming
Discuss the benefits of swimming for health and fitness.
Snacks
Explore the role of snacks in daily nutrition and lifestyle.
Photography
Discuss photography’s cultural and artistic significance.
Help
Talk about the importance of offering and receiving help.
History
Discuss historical events and their impact on modern society.
Handwriting
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Music
Learn about the influence of music on emotions and society.
Colours
Discuss how colours affect perception and mood.
Teachers
Explore the role of teachers in shaping students’ futures.
Being Alone
Talk about the experience and benefits of spending time alone.
Teamwork
Learn the importance of teamwork in professional and social contexts.
Countryside & City
Explore the charm and benefits of living in the countryside.
Social Media
Discuss the impact of social media on society and relationships.
Friends
Explore the importance of friendships in life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Talk about the future of AI and its role in society.
Climate Change
Discuss the causes and consequences of climate change.
Transportation
Explore different modes of transportation in your area.
Sustainable Transportation
Explore ways to make transportation more environmentally friendly.
Space Exploration
Learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.
Shopping
Explore how shopping influences culture and the economy.
Modern Technology
Discuss how modern technology is reshaping society.
Technology
Learn about the role of technology in everyday life.
Sustainable Living
Explore ways to live sustainably for the future of the planet.
Globalisation
Learn about the effects of globalisation on society and economies.
Global Warming
Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming.
Gender Equality
Explore the importance of gender equality in modern society.
Health and Fitness
Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Renewable Energy
Learn about renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.
Cultural Traditions in Kerala
Explore the unique cultural traditions of Kerala, your hometown.
Cultural Traditions in Your Country
Learn about the cultural traditions in your country.
Education System
Discuss the education system in your country and its effectiveness.
Traditional Cuisine
Explore the significance of traditional cuisines in your culture.
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