Consider a group of young British lads, far from home, preparing to sample a classic American dish: biscuits and gravy.
This dish is more than simply a meal; it’s a symbol of American mornings and a tried-and-true cure for hangovers.
When the biscuit was introduced to the British high school students, their immediate reactions were a combination of interest and uncertainty.
They were perplexed by the biscuit’s remarkable resemblance to an English scone.
The comment, ‘They’re not biscuits, that’s so weird,’ was made by a pupil. However, as they say, the pudding—or biscuit, in this case—is the evidence.
When they tasted it, their doubts gave way to curiosity.Jerome thought Americans were in for a gourmet treat, while Joe compared it to a delicious sweet bread.
The most outspoken was Arthur, who dared to declare, ‘I’m leaving my country by saying these are better than scones.’
The gravy’s appearance changed the course of the story.
Theo guessed immediately that it would be gravy when the hosts teased that the biscuit is customarily served with a partner.
But Lorenzo had an expression of pure confusion, wondering at this strange decision.Collectively, the group assumed it was the comforting brown gravy.
However, the real creamy white version shocked everyone and started a discussion about what exactly qualifies as ‘gravy.’
The biscuits were dusted with gravy and the moment of truth arrived.Initial feelings were anything from fearful to downright disgusted.
There were references to ‘vomit’ and ‘chopped-up ferret.’Nonetheless, they made the honorable decision to give it a fair go.
Delving further into the nuances, the headmaster proposed a joking rebranding to ‘cake with sauce.’
Ever the philosopher, Lorenzo made comparisons to variations in cuisine between cultures. He thought that the British treat of beans on toast may be just as confusing to Americans.
‘Those two things wouldn’t cross their minds together,’ he thought. There was yet more to the taste experience.
The pupils were further indulged in this American culinary adventure with Southern fried chicken and iced tea.
What does this mean for us now?
Would you take a culinary trip and sample a dish from a different country, stepping outside of your comfort zone?
The British dish ‘beans on toast’ is charming in and of itself, but the American biscuits and gravy may give it some serious competition.
Watch the video below to see the British students’ frank comments if you’re interested in seeing this cross-cultural gastronomic exchange for yourself!