In the United States and a few other countries, France, Canada, Australia, and Ireland, dessert is the last course of a meal. It is normally sweet and is commonly ice cream, cakes, cookies, pastries and fruits. In the United Kingdom and some commonwealth countries, such as India, the dessert is called a pudding, meaning any sweet dish following a meal. In some countries the word “afters” is used instead of dessert. In China sweets are served throughout the meal alternately with savory dishes, but the final dish is sweet.
It wasn’t until the 19th Century that desserts became commonplace in the West. Prior to then, desserts were only served by the aristocracy or for special meals such as Christmas. As the cost of sugar became more affordable, desserts became more common for the middleclass. In the United States desserts are served any time as a snack and as a treat for guests.
People who are diabetic or who are making an effort to remain on a low-carb diet can still enjoy desserts. Just remember that most recipes that are low-fat or fat-free have fillers loaded with carbohydrates. Some sugars are fine especially when eaten as part of a heart healthy diet. And it is important to exercise regularly. Also, pay attention to portion size; your portion size is as important as what you eat.
Almost every holiday in the West is saturated with sweets. Ice cream and cake are served at almost every birthday. Valentines Day is a time for chocolates. Easter comes with chocolate bunnies and candy eggs. Christmas and Thanksgiving call for a super meal with loads of desserts such as pies, cookies, cakes, and anything your imagination can cook up. In America we like our desserts.
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