East & Southeast Asia
In East and Southeast Asia, three meals are common, but the concept of meal times can be fluid, with smaller dishes enjoyed throughout the day. Rice, noodles, vegetables, and a variety of proteins (often seafood) form meal bases. Meals are typically accompanied by side dishes like pickles, soups, and sauces that encourage sharing. Meals emphasize balance, with each meal often featuring a range of flavors—salty, sweet, sour, and spicy—within the same setting.