Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.
The origins of popular foods often reveal surprising historical insights. (18)______. While many assume that curry was introduced to England through interactions with India in the 1600s, historical evidence suggests otherwise. Wealthy English families,(19)______, were consuming dishes prepared with curry spices as early as the time of King Richard I. Notably, the term “curry” appears in an English cookbook published in 1377, long before British ships traveled to India. This early mention highlights how food traditions can transcend borders and evolve over centuries, influenced by trade and exploration.
Similarly, pizza, a dish frequently associated with Italian cuisine, (20)______. While modern pizza originated in Naples, records indicate that in the 500s, Persians consumed round, flat bread topped with cheese. This precursor to the pizza we know today reflects the global interconnectedness of culinary traditions, where simple yet innovative recipes emerge in different cultures independently. (21)______.
The history of hamburgers also deviates from common perceptions. While widely regarded as an American culinary creation, (22)_______. According to historical accounts, Otto Kuasw created the first hamburger in 1891, and by 1895, German sailors had introduced the dish to the United States. This journey from Germany to the U.S. demonstrates how cultural exchanges shape iconic dishes.
Understanding the origins of these foods enhances appreciation of their cultural and historical significance. Regardless of their provenance, their enduring appeal lies in their taste, adaptability, and ability to bring people together across time and space.
