Definition: fusion (cooking)

The word "fusion" makes us smile because it has been emptied of its meaning. To fuse is to become one with a territory, a local life, with people, with neighbours. Fusion is above all about cooperation, not only with the team working with a chef, but also with producers. Fusion is about complicity. This is the definition of fusion cuisine. Without mentioning the word "fusion", which is used by anyone who wants to appear trendy, it is time to move beyond the boundaries of our French culinary heritage, without losing sight of where we come from. We might just as well talk about "fine mixed cuisine". In the south, the Spanish and Mexican influence is strong. There are many Tex-Mex dishes, enchiladas and tacos. In the north, in the San Francisco area, Asian and Italian culinary traditions dominate, although there are many ingredients of Spanish origin. In fact, almost all combinations of ethnic cuisine styles can be found in Californian cuisine. This is fusion cuisine. It can be defined as the meeting of two cuisines: a Mediterranean cuisine with Eastern influences, where Italian ravioli might be served with peanut sauce, grilled fish with salsa and Chinese vegetables, ginger risotto, foie gras sushi, or a salad of fresh lettuce, avocado and citrus fruits with a spicy peanut sauce.

Fusion cuisine is poorly perceived by many.