Culinary culture of the Cham Ahiér in Ninh Thuan province from ecological and social structural perspectives

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between cuisine and the socio-cultural aspects of the Chăm Ahíer people in Ninh Thuận, Vietnam. Utilizing primarily qualitative research methods, with a focus on in-depth interviews and participant observation, the article explores  meal structures, food selection processes, and analyzes meal composition by examining specific dishes within the context of family life. This analysis is situated within the ecological environment and social structure. Special attention is given to gender roles, the responsibilities and positions of women and men in meal preparation, as well as the symbolic meanings and cosmological views of the people as partially expressed through the described meals.