IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
Describe a food that people eat on special occasions/events in your country.
You should say:
- what food it is
- what the special events/occasions are when it is made
- how it is made/cooked
and explain why people prefer it on special occasions/events in your country.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
We, the Canadians, love foods – and we love all kinds of them, whether they are palatable or “not-so” palatable when we are hungry. But, then again, I am pretty sure that Canadian people, including me, don’t mind eating a particular kind of food on a special occasion or event, whether we are celebrating just a birthday, “Canada Day” or just any other special occasion. And, the name of the food is “grilled spicy chicken wings”.
Now, here comes the fun part of making our favourite spicy chicken wings. First, what we need to do is place the wings in a large bowl. Then we apply dry seasonings with cayenne pepper, ground cumin and smoked paprika by rubbing them on the chicken wings evenly. Keep the wings refrigerated, soaked in sour yogurt for a better taste, for at least 30 minutes. But the longer it is kept and marinated, the better it should taste. After that, heat up the “properly greased” barbecue grill on medium heat. Once the grill is heated nicely, we spread the wings on it and keep them for at least 15/20 minutes. Of course, we turn them occasionally to make sure that they are properly cooked, followed by brushing some nice and light dressing (either classic blue cheese dressing or Italian ranch dressing) on them. We can grill them for another 5 minutes until the wings are properly done while brushing frequently with more dressing of our choice. And, Voilà! Our favourite dish of spicy chicken wings is ready to be served!
So, why do we prefer our spicy hot grilled chicken wings on special occasions? Well, we prefer it primarily because it is easy to make with much less effort. Secondly, we are able to prepare it rather quickly. Thirdly, we can prepare the food outdoors in a large space, which gives all of our friends and families an opportunity to chill and talk with each other while enjoying some good food.
Finally, Canada is a great country with many diverse people, having many different cultures and lifestyles. But, no matter how different or far apart we are in our great country, we all seem to agree to be happily on board with a classic barbecue feast of juicy and spicy chicken wings, grilled to perfection, with crisp salads on the side!
Model Answer 2:
In my country, one quintessential food that people often enjoy on special occasions or events is called “Biryani.” Biryani is a fragrant and flavourful rice dish that originated in South Asia and is particularly popular in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Here, I would like to describe how it is made, on what occasions people love to enjoy it, and why they prefer it on special occasions.
Biryani is typically prepared for various special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings, festivals, and family gatherings. It is considered a symbol of festivity and is often served as the centrepiece of a festive feast.
The preparation of Biryani involves layering seasoned rice with marinated meat (such as chicken, mutton, or beef) and aromatic spices. The meat is usually cooked separately until tender and then layered with partially cooked rice. Additionally, ingredients like fried onions, saffron-infused milk, chopped herbs, and dried fruits are added to enhance the flavour and aroma of the dish. The layered rice and meat are then cooked together in a sealed pot over low heat, allowing the flavours to meld and the rice to absorb the aromatic spices and meat juices. This slow-cooking process results in a rich and flavorful dish with tender meat and perfectly cooked rice.
People prefer Biryani on special occasions and events because it is not only delicious but also holds cultural and traditional significance. It is often associated with celebrations, joyous gatherings, and communal feasting, making it the perfect choice for marking memorable moments and sharing happiness with loved ones. Moreover, the elaborate preparation and indulgent flavours of Biryani make it a special treat that adds to the festive atmosphere of any occasion.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a special food that people commonly eat during important occasions or celebrations in your country. You need to explain what the food is, during which festivals, family gatherings or ceremonies it is prepared, how it is cooked or served, and why it is so popular on those occasions. To make your answer rich, try to describe the ingredients, cooking process, traditions connected to the dish, and the emotions or memories associated with it. Here we have added a few detailed ideas that will help you come up with your own answer. We hope you will find them helpful.
1. Biryani in Bangladesh:
One special food that people commonly eat in Bangladesh during important occasions is biryani. It is especially popular during weddings, Eid celebrations and family gatherings. The dish is made with fragrant rice, meat such as chicken or beef, spices, potatoes and sometimes boiled eggs. Preparing biryani usually takes several hours because the ingredients need to be cooked carefully to develop a rich flavour. People prefer it on special occasions because it is considered luxurious, delicious and suitable for serving large groups of guests.
2. Butter chicken and naan in India:
In India, one famous food often served during celebrations is butter chicken with naan or rice. It is commonly prepared during weddings, religious festivals and family parties. The chicken is cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with various spices, while naan is baked in a traditional oven. This meal is popular because it is rich, flavourful and represents traditional Indian hospitality during special occasions.
3. Dumplings in China:
A traditional food eaten during special events in China is dumplings, especially during Lunar New Year celebrations. They are made by filling thin dough wrappers with meat or vegetables and then steaming or frying them. Families often prepare dumplings together, making the activity both cultural and social. People prefer them because they symbolise prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.
4. Turkey dinner in the USA:
In the United States, roast turkey is one of the most traditional foods served during Thanksgiving celebrations. The turkey is seasoned and roasted for several hours and usually served with mashed potatoes, stuffing and vegetables. Families gather together to share this meal and express gratitude. People prefer it because it represents togetherness, tradition and family bonding.
5. Sushi in Japan:
In Japan, sushi is often eaten during special celebrations and family occasions. It is made using vinegared rice combined with seafood, vegetables or egg. During festivals and gatherings, beautifully prepared sushi platters are served to guests. People enjoy it because it is elegant, healthy and deeply connected with Japanese culinary culture.
6. Kabsa in Saudi Arabia:
A popular food served during special events in Saudi Arabia is Kabsa, a traditional rice and meat dish. It is commonly prepared during weddings, religious festivals and family gatherings. The dish is made with rice, lamb or chicken and a mixture of aromatic spices. People prefer it because it is filling, flavourful and reflects traditional hospitality in Middle Eastern culture.
7. Poutine in Canada:
In Canada, poutine is a famous comfort food often enjoyed during celebrations and social events. It is made with fries, cheese curds and gravy. Although it is relatively simple, it is considered a cultural favourite in many regions. People enjoy it because it is warm, satisfying and associated with social gatherings and festivals.
8. Roast lamb in Australia:
In Australia, roast lamb is commonly prepared during family celebrations, Christmas and weekend gatherings. The meat is slowly roasted with herbs and vegetables until tender. Families usually enjoy it together with side dishes and desserts. People prefer it because it creates a warm family atmosphere and has become a long-standing tradition.
9. Kimchi and barbecue in South Korea:
In South Korea, Korean barbecue with kimchi is very popular during celebrations and social occasions. Meat is grilled at the table and served with fermented vegetables, rice and sauces. The preparation is interactive because people cook and eat together. It is preferred because it encourages conversation and creates a lively social experience.
10. Fish and chips in the United Kingdom:
In the United Kingdom, fish and chips are often enjoyed during festivals, fairs and family outings. The dish consists of fried fish served with thick potato chips and sauces. Although simple, it has become an iconic comfort food in British culture. People enjoy it because it is traditional, satisfying and associated with pleasant memories and gatherings.
11. Rendang in Indonesia:
In Indonesia, rendang is a famous dish commonly served during weddings and religious festivals. It is made by slowly cooking beef with coconut milk and spices for several hours. The dish has a rich flavour and tender texture because of the long cooking process. People prefer it during special occasions because it is considered prestigious, delicious and culturally significant.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card:
Delicacy: A choice or expensive food, often a speciality of a particular region or culture.
Example: This traditional dessert is considered a local delicacy and is essential for every festive gathering.
Indispensable: Absolutely necessary; not to be neglected.
Example: The aromatic spices used in this dish are indispensable to achieving the authentic flavour profile.
Elaborate: Involving many carefully arranged parts or details; complex and detailed.
Example: Preparing this dish is an elaborate process that often takes several hours and the help of the entire family.
Culinary tradition: The customs and practices related to the preparation and consumption of food within a culture.
Example: Serving this meal on wedding days is a deeply rooted culinary tradition that connects generations.
Iconic: Widely recognised and well-established; representative of a culture.
Example: It is the most iconic dish in our country, instantly recognisable to everyone during celebratory holidays.
Infuse: To soak or steep something in a liquid to extract its flavour or properties.
Example: The rice is infused with saffron and rose water to give it a rich, fragrant aroma.
Festivity: The celebration of something in a joyful and lively way.
Example: The preparation of this sweet treat always marks the beginning of the season’s major festivities.
Authentic: Based on facts or traditions; genuine and original.
Example: To get the truly authentic taste, the dish must be slow-cooked in a traditional clay pot over an open flame.
Heritage: Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations.
Example: Eating this dish during family reunions helps us honour our cultural heritage and shared history.
Garnish: A small item used to decorate or add flavour to a prepared food dish.
Example: A generous garnish of toasted nuts and dried fruits adds a delightful crunch to the finished product.
Indulgence: The action of allowing oneself to enjoy the pleasure of something, often something special or luxurious.
Example: Rich, creamy, and sweet, this dish is the ultimate indulgence for guests on a special occasion.
Communal: Shared by all members of a community or group.
Example: The act of sharing this large, festive platter is a communal experience that fosters a sense of togetherness.
Simmer: To stay just below the boiling point while being heated, allowing flavours to meld.
Example: We let the meat and aromatics simmer together for hours until it reaches a tender, melt-in-the-mouth consistency.
Richness: The quality of being full, deep, or intense in flavour.
Example: I love the richness of the slow-cooked gravy, which perfectly balances the savoury spices.
Nostalgic: Characterised by a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past.
Example: Just the smell of these spices cooking makes me feel nostalgic for the family parties of my childhood.
Appetising: Having an appetising smell or appearance; tempting.
Example: The golden-brown crust and vibrant colours make this dish look incredibly appetising on the table.
If you prepare for the topic “Describe a food that people eat on special occasions/events in your country”, you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a meal you usually eat on a special occasion.
2) Describe your favourite dish or food item.
3) Describe a festival that is important in your country.
4) Describe your favourite food that you often eat.
5) Describe a popular food or dish from your country.
6) Describe an important festival in your country.
7) Describe a food menu of a dish that you can prepare or cook.