Mary Allen
Where is Horse Meat Commonly Consumed?
Horse meat is consumed in various parts of the world, though it is not as widely accepted as beef, chicken, or pork. The consumption of horse meat dates back to ancient times and is still prevalent in some cultures. Some countries consume horse meat as a delicacy, while others consider it a staple in their diet.
A Tradition in Some Cultures
In some cultures, the consumption of horse meat is a long-standing tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. In countries like Mongolia, horse meat is a staple in their diet and is often eaten raw or boiled. In Iceland, horse meat is commonly eaten during the winter months and is widely available in supermarkets and restaurants. Similarly, in Sweden, horse meat is considered a traditional dish, and it is often served as a steak or in stews.
A Delicacy in Others
In some countries, horse meat is considered a delicacy and is consumed in high-end restaurants. In Japan, horse meat is known as “sakura-niku” and is often served as sashimi or in hot pot dishes. Similarly, in Italy, horse meat is considered a gourmet food and is often served in upscale restaurants. It is also used in traditional dishes like “carne cruda all’Albese,” which is a raw beef dish that is sometimes made with horse meat.
Europe: The Largest Consumer
Europe is the largest consumer of horse meat, and it is commonly found in supermarkets and butchers across the continent. In countries like Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, horse meat is used in sausages and meatballs. In France, horse meat is widely consumed, and it is often served in bistros and brasseries. In Switzerland, horse meat is used in sausages and is also available in supermarkets.
France: A Nation of Horse Meat Lovers
France is one of the largest consumers of horse meat in the world, and it is widely available in supermarkets and specialty shops. In French cuisine, horse meat is often used in traditional dishes like “steak tartare” and “pot-au-feu.” It is also served in bistros and brasseries as a steak or in stews.
Italy: A Growing Market
In Italy, the consumption of horse meat is on the rise, and it is often used in traditional dishes like “lasagne alla bolognese” and “carne cruda all’Albese.” It is also served in upscale restaurants as a gourmet food. Horse meat is widely available in supermarkets and butchers across the country.
Horse Meat in Asia
In Asia, the consumption of horse meat is not as widespread as in Europe. However, in some countries, it is considered a delicacy and is consumed in high-end restaurants.
Japan: A Unique Culinary Experience
In Japan, horse meat is considered a delicacy and is often served as sashimi or in hot pot dishes. It is known as “sakura-niku” and is widely available in specialty restaurants.
Kazakhstan: A Staple of the Diet
In Kazakhstan, horse meat is a staple in their diet and is often consumed in traditional dishes like “beshbarmak” and “kazy.” It is also used in sausages and other meat products.
Horse Meat in South America
In South America, horse meat is consumed in some countries, but it is not as widely accepted as in Europe or Asia.
Argentina: A Country with a Long History
In Argentina, the consumption of horse meat dates back to the colonial era, and it is still consumed in some parts of the country. However, it is not as widely available as beef or pork.
Uruguay: A Growing Market
In Uruguay, the consumption of horse meat is on the rise, and it is often used in traditional dishes like “chivito” and “asado.” It is also served in restaurants as a gourmet food. Horse meat is widely available in supermarkets and butchers across the country.