Chopsticks are one of the most interesting utensils used to eat with; something Westerners generally don’t use often. Although not easy to eat with, many are skilled in using them with extreme agility. They are most commonly used when eating a noodle or rice dish, which stems from its origin and background.
They are generally made from bamboo, wood, or plastic, and less frequently, stainless steel, and relatively light. A specific hand technique is required, which can take up to a few months to perfect. However, today, there are “easy” chopsticks for beginners that help people initially. This change came after many years of evolving; read on to discover the amazing history and cultural background of chopsticks.
Origin and Historical Background
Some of the earliest chopsticks date back to about 1200 B.C., in Henan, China. They were found in the same location where there were writing tools, and many believe that one greatly influenced the other. They then migrated to nearby areas, including Japan and Vietnam. Apparently, the philosopher Confucius was one of the people who extensively spread the use of chopsticks as he thought that having sharp edges at the dinner table was too aggressive and violent.
Cultural Backgrounds
About 500 AD, chopsticks started becoming more popular in Japan and Korea, yet the former used them mainly during religious ceremonies. The chopsticks they used were made out of a piece of bamboo stick similar to a tweezer. During the rise of dynasties in China, chopsticks were traditionally made with silver as they believed that they would turn black if they came in contact with poisoned food. The utensil experts at Shop-Chopsticks state that the material chopsticks are made out of definitely alters the way it can be used. For example, plastic can sometimes have more grip, so people in the States use them more frequently, whereas those with more skill and control use porcelain chopsticks.
Uses Over the Years
Over the years, chopsticks have evolved and spread to even more locations around the world. They are mainly used for noodles and sushi, given their popularity around the world. Sushi quickly became a go-to food that should only be eaten with chopsticks, yet non-Asians, as well as a percentage of Asians, remain eating rice and noodles with a fork and spoon; they feel they are much easier to use.
Although not many question the origin and cultural background of chopsticks, the two-stick utensil has been around for thousands of years. Although they are not used as much as in the past, people still find their use intriguing, especially those with a non-Asian background. Chopsticks can be used for many things, not just as a tool to eat – to stir your food, you can turn them into Popsicle sticks, and even pull your hair up with them! Not only do they have an extensive background, but they also have an extended list of ways to use them. Be sure to pick out the type and style you want, and you will be good to go!
