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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or a Special Event in Your Country

Updated on Sep 27, 2024, 06:23

Overview

In the IELTS Speaking Test, the topic "Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or a Special Event in Your Country" requires you to talk about a specific dish associated with a cultural celebration or event. To answer effectively, you should focus on the type of food, the occasion it is associated with, and why it is special to you. Key factors to consider include describing the taste, ingredients, preparation process, and the cultural or personal meaning behind it.


Practising this topic enhances your ability to speak fluently and confidently about personal experiences, helping you organise your thoughts within the 3-4 minute time limit of round 2 (the individual long turn). It also improves your vocabulary, descriptive language skills and coherence, which are crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking.

 

Cue Card/Topic:Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or a Special Event in Your Country.

You should say

  • What is the food?
  • At which festival/event do you eat it?
  • How is it prepared?
  • Explain why you like it.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: What is the food?)
 

  • My favourite food is dhokla, a fluffy, steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea batter.
  • This dish hails from Gujarat and is known for its light texture and tangy flavour.
  • Dhokla is often garnished with mustard seeds and fresh coriander, making it both delicious and visually appealing.
  • It stands out as a popular snack that is enjoyed at various festivals and gatherings across India.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: At which festival/event do you eat it?)
 

  • I usually enjoy dhokla during Navratri, a festival celebrating the divine feminine.
  • The vibrant atmosphere during this nine-night festival, filled with dance and music, makes eating dhokla even more special.
  • Sharing dhokla with friends and family while participating in garba dance creates lasting memories of joy and celebration.
  • This dish often symbolises hospitality, as it’s commonly served to guests during festive occasions.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is it prepared?)
 

  • Dhokla is prepared by mixing rice flour and chickpea flour with spices and allowing it to ferment for several hours.
  • The batter is then poured into a greased steaming tray and cooked until fluffy and risen, usually topped with a tempering of mustard seeds.
  • The addition of lemon juice and green chillies gives dhokla its signature tangy taste, which is delightful.
  • It is typically served with green chutney and sweet tamarind chutney, adding layers of flavour.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why you like it.)

 

  • I love dhokla because it is a light and healthy snack that brings back fond memories of family gatherings during Navratri.
  • Its unique taste and texture make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time.
  • Dhokla not only represents the vibrant culture of Gujarat but also showcases the diversity of Indian cuisine.
  • Overall, this dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of joyful celebrations and cherished moments.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: What is the food?)

 

  • My favourite food is ladoo, a sweet ball made primarily from chickpea flour, sugar, and ghee.
  • Ladoos are a staple in Indian cuisine, especially during festivals and celebrations.
  • Their golden-brown colour and rich, sweet flavour make them a popular treat among both children and adults.
  • This dish embodies the essence of Indian sweets, combining simplicity with indulgence.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: At which festival/event do you eat it?)
 

  • I typically enjoy ladoos during Diwali, the festival of lights, when families come together to celebrate.
  • The joy of making ladoos with my family adds to the festive spirit, creating cherished memories each year.
  • We often exchange ladoos with friends and neighbours, spreading happiness and sweetness during this joyful occasion.
  • This tradition of sharing ladoos reinforces bonds within the community, making it a highlight of the festivities.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is it prepared?)

 

  • To prepare ladoos, chickpea flour is roasted in ghee until aromatic, then combined with sugar and cardamom for flavour.
  • The mixture is shaped into small balls once it cools, creating the signature ladoo form.
  • Some variations include adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavour, making each batch unique.
  • The preparation is often a family affair, with everyone participating in shaping and sharing the ladoos.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why you like it.)

 

  • I love ladoos because they represent the sweetness of family gatherings and the joy of celebration during Diwali.
  • Their rich flavour and satisfying texture make them a comforting treat that I look forward to every year.
  • Ladoos also connect me to my cultural heritage, reminding me of the warmth and togetherness that festivals bring.
  • Overall, this delightful sweet not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also fills my heart with fond memories.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: What is the food?)

 

  • My favourite food is samosa, a crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.
  • Samosas are widely popular in India and are often enjoyed as a snack or appetiser at various gatherings.
  • Their triangular shape and golden-brown colour make them visually enticing and perfect for sharing.
  • This dish represents the vibrant street food culture in India, which is celebrated for its delicious flavours.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: At which festival/event do you eat it?)
 

  • I usually enjoy samosas during Holi, the festival of colours, when friends and family come together to celebrate.
  • The lively atmosphere, filled with music, dance, and vibrant colours, makes eating samosas an integral part of the festivities.
  • Sharing samosas with loved ones while playing with colours creates a joyful and memorable experience.
  • This tradition of enjoying samosas during Holi adds to the spirit of togetherness and celebration.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is it prepared?)
 

  • To prepare samosas, a dough made from flour is rolled out and shaped into cones filled with a spiced potato and pea mixture.
  • The filled cones are then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy, creating a delightful crunch with every bite.
  • Some variations include adding spices like cumin and coriander, which enhance the flavour profile.
  • Samosas are typically served with tangy tamarind chutney or spicy green chutney, adding a burst of flavour.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why you like it.)

 

  • I love samosas because they capture the essence of celebration and togetherness during Holi.
  • Their crispy texture and spicy filling make them an irresistible snack that I look forward to every year.
  • Samosas also remind me of the joyful moments spent with family and friends, enjoying the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Overall, this delicious treat is not just a snack; it’s a symbol of the joyous occasions that bring us closer together.

When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a cue card titled "Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or a Special Event in Your Country." 


You will have one minute to prepare your response, during which you can jot down notes. After the preparation time, you will speak for 1-2 minutes about the topic. It's essential to use this time wisely to structure your thoughts.


The best way to answer these cue cards is to break your response into small, manageable pieces: an introduction, a detailed description, key highlights, and a conclusion. This approach helps you stay organised and ensures you cover all aspects of the topic within the time limit.

 

Suggested Read: Latest Vocabulary for IELTS Speaking: Definition & Best Sample Questions

 

Considering that, here's how we'll break down our topic. 

Introduction (Covers: What is the food?)

 

  • Start by naming the food you’ll discuss.
  • Mention its main ingredients and any distinctive features.
  • Briefly describe its appearance to provide context.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: At which festival/event do you eat it?)

 

  • Identify the festival or event where this food is commonly enjoyed.
  • Share your personal experiences or memories associated with eating this food during the event.
  • Discuss the atmosphere of the event and how it enhances your enjoyment of the food.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is it prepared?)

 

  • Describe the preparation method of the food.
  • Mention any unique ingredients or cooking techniques that make it special.
  • Highlight any traditions or rituals involved in preparing or serving the dish.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why you like it.)

 

  • Summarise your feelings about the food.
  • Discuss what it means to you personally and why it holds a special place in your heart.
  • End with a statement about how this food connects you to your culture or traditions.

 

By following this structure, you can ensure your response is clear, organised, and within the two-minute limit.

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking test, the follow-up questions, also known as the discussion round, occur after the cue card section. This round typically consists of more in-depth questions related to the topic you just discussed. The examiner will engage you in a conversation to assess your ability to elaborate on your ideas and express your opinions clearly. 

 

Expect to provide thoughtful responses that may require you to think critically about cultural aspects, personal experiences, and broader implications. The follow-up questions allow you to showcase your language skills while demonstrating your understanding of the topic. 
 

Below are some sample questions and possible answers for the topic “Describe Your Favourite Food at a Traditional Festival or a Special Event in Your Country”. 
 

Refer to this List of Idioms for the IELTS Speaking Test 2024 to boost your band score.

Q1. How important are traditional foods in preserving Indian cultural identity?

Answer 1: Traditional foods play a crucial role in preserving Indian cultural identity. They embody the history, values, and customs of various regions. Each dish tells a story, connecting generations through shared recipes and cooking methods. Festivals often centre around these foods, reinforcing community bonds and cultural heritage. By enjoying traditional meals, we keep our identity alive and pass it on to future generations.

 

Answer 2: I believe traditional foods are vital for maintaining Indian cultural identity. They reflect the diversity of our culture and the unique flavours of each region. Sharing these dishes during festivals helps strengthen family ties and community connections. Additionally, traditional foods remind us of our roots and the significance of our culinary heritage. They are a way to celebrate our identity in an increasingly globalised world.

Q2. Is it valuable for people to look at their phones during a meal?

Answer 1: I think it can be quite distracting when people look at their phones during a meal. Meals are often a time for connection and conversation with family or friends. Being present and engaged enhances the dining experience and fosters relationships. While some may argue that phones provide entertainment, I believe it’s important to prioritise face-to-face interactions during meals.

 

Answer 2: In my opinion, looking at phones during meals can diminish the quality of the experience. Meals are an opportunity to bond with loved ones, and distractions from phones can hinder meaningful conversations. However, I also understand that some people use their phones to share their meals on social media, which can be a fun way to connect with others. Still, I prefer to focus on the people around me.

Q3. Do you think traditional Indian festival foods can be adapted for different dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free) without losing their cultural significance?

Answer 1: Yes, I believe traditional Indian festival foods can be adapted for various dietary requirements while still retaining their cultural significance. For example, many Indian dishes are inherently vegetarian or can easily be modified. Substituting gluten-free ingredients in recipes allows people with dietary restrictions to enjoy the flavours and traditions of our cuisine. The essence of the dish can remain intact, celebrating the festival's spirit.

 

Answer 2: I think adapting traditional Indian festival foods for different dietary needs is definitely possible. Many recipes can be altered to accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free diets without losing their essence. For instance, using chickpea flour instead of wheat flour can make dishes accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. This adaptation not only promotes inclusivity but also allows everyone to experience the rich flavours and traditions of our festivals.

Q4. How has globalisation affected traditional festival foods in India?

Answer 1: Globalisation has significantly influenced traditional festival foods in India, introducing a fusion of flavours and techniques. For instance, you can now find traditional dishes with modern twists, like pizzas topped with Indian spices. While this has diversified our culinary landscape, it also poses a risk of overshadowing authentic recipes. Balancing traditional practices with contemporary influences is essential to preserve our cultural identity in the face of globalisation.

 

Answer 2: I think globalisation has both positively and negatively impacted traditional festival foods in India. On one hand, it has brought awareness to Indian cuisine worldwide, allowing us to share our culinary heritage. On the other hand, it sometimes leads to the dilution of authentic recipes as people experiment with fusion dishes. It’s crucial to celebrate our traditional foods while embracing new influences to keep our culinary heritage vibrant.

FAQs

Q. What can I do if I don’t understand the cue card topic?

Ans. If you don’t understand the cue card topic, take a moment to read it carefully and identify keywords that you do understand. You can also paraphrase the question to ensure you grasp its meaning. If you are still confused, it’s acceptable to ask the examiner for clarification. This can demonstrate your willingness to engage and seek understanding.

Q. Can I use informal language during my cue card task?

Ans. While it’s generally best to maintain a semi-formal tone during the IELTS speaking test, using some informal language is acceptable, especially if it enhances your authenticity. However, avoid overly casual expressions or slang that could detract from the clarity and quality of your response. Strive for a balance that reflects your personality while remaining appropriate for an exam setting.

Q. What are some of the common cue card topics?

Ans. Common cue card topics include personal experiences, places you have visited, important events, your favourite books or movies, and skills you want to learn. Other popular themes can revolve around hobbies, memorable gifts, or significant people in your life. Familiarising yourself with these topics can help you prepare effectively for the speaking test.

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