History of Europe

What foods lists things that were unknown to Europe prior the columbian exchange?

The Columbian Exchange was a period of cultural and biological exchange between the Americas, Europe, and Africa that began with Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas in 1492. This exchange had a profound impact on the diets of people around the world, as new foods were introduced from the Americas to Europe and vice versa. Some of the foods that were unknown to Europe prior to the Columbian Exchange include:

1. Maize (corn): Maize is a cereal grain that was domesticated in Mexico and Central America. It was a staple food for many Native American cultures and quickly became a popular food in Europe after its introduction.

2. Potatoes: Potatoes are a root vegetable that was domesticated in the Andes Mountains of South America. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a staple food in many European countries.

3. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a fruit that was domesticated in Central America. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine.

4. Bell peppers: Bell peppers are a fruit that was domesticated in Central America. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular ingredient in many European cuisines.

5. Avocados: Avocados are a fruit that was domesticated in Central America. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular food in many European countries.

6. Chocolate: Chocolate is a food made from the roasted and ground seeds of the cacao tree. It was domesticated in Central America and was used by Native American cultures as a drink and food. Chocolate was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular luxury food.

7. Pineapples: Pineapples are a fruit that was domesticated in South America. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular luxury food.

8. Vanilla: Vanilla is a spice made from the cured beans of the vanilla orchid. It was domesticated in Mexico and was used by Native American cultures as a flavoring. Vanilla was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and quickly became a popular flavoring agent.

9. Peanuts: Peanuts are a legume that was domesticated in South America. They were introduced to Europe by Portuguese explorers and quickly became a popular food in many European countries.

10. Cashews: Cashews are a seed that was domesticated in South America. They were introduced to Europe by Portuguese explorers and quickly became a popular food in many European countries.

These are just a few examples of the many foods that were unknown to Europe prior to the Columbian Exchange. The introduction of these foods had a significant impact on the diets and cultures of people around the world.