Chapter 7: Central Europeans, People of the Former Soviet Union, and Scandinavians

Overview

• Central Europe: Collection of countries with similar historical, cultural, and social identities.
• Former Soviet Union (FSU): 15 independent states post-Soviet Union.
• Scandinavia: Northern Europe region with historically and culturally tied countries.

Influence on American Cuisine

• Central Europeans, FSU people, and Scandinavians were significant early settlers in the U.S.
• They influenced American cuisine with bread-baking, dairy farming, meat processing, and beer brewing.
• Hot-dogs have origins claimed by both Frankfurt and Vienna.

Geography and Climate

• Central Europe: Includes Germany, Austria, Hungary, etc. Known for a harsh cold climate but fertile land.
• FSU: Includes CIS and Baltic States with varying climates from cold winters to temperate zones.

Cultural and Religious Influence

• Central Europeans influenced literature and music (e.g., Beethoven).
• Religions: Lutheran, Catholicism, Eastern Orthodox, and a blend of religious practices among Gypsies.
• Gypsies originated from Northern India.

Family and Worldview

• Emphasis on large, extended family units.
• Variations in family structures (patriarchal, nuclear families, multi-family Gypsy groups).

Traditional Health Beliefs and Practices

• Varied beliefs among German Americans and other Central European groups.
• Holistic medicine preferences among Russian immigrants.
• Diets rich in meats, dairy, and grains.

Regional Cuisine

• Central European and FSU cuisine: Root vegetables, dairy, pork, rye, and fermented foods.
• Bread is a core food with over 100 varieties.
• Adaptations in the U.S. include increased milk consumption, less variety of meats, and more white bread.

Meal Patterns and Etiquette

• Traditionally ate 4-6 large meals a day; now typically 3 meals with snacks.
• Formal meal etiquette, especially among Polish and German communities.

Special Occasions and Festivals

• Germany known for festivals; introduced Christmas and Easter traditions (e.g., Christmas trees, Easter egg hunt).
• Russian and Polish traditional dishes like borscht.

Alcohol Consumption

• Heavy alcohol use reported in Russia, certain FSU nations, and Poland.

Scandinavian Influence and Practices

• Settled predominantly in Midwestern U.S.
• Predominantly Lutheran, preferred larger families.

Health and Traditional Practices

• Fish for health maintenance, use of saunas, and therapeutic massage.
• Alternative healthcare: Herbs, dietary supplements, massage, cupping.

Cuisine and Food Habits

• Simple yet hearty cuisine; emphasis on fish and shellfish.
• Cultural foods include preserved fish, dairy products, and sweets.
• In the U.S., increased meat consumption.

Meal Composition

• Three meals a day with coffee breaks.
• Scandinavian etiquette: Use of hands, specific cutlery use, and gift-giving customs.

Contemporary Adaptations

• Quick assimilation into U.S. culture with minimal dietary changes.
• Increased risk of heart disease among Scandinavian Americans.

Communication and Counseling

• Low-context communication style.
• Direct and logical interaction.
• Important to conduct in-depth interviews for nutritional counseling.

Review Questions

• Most Polish immigrants were predominantly Catholic.