As the origin of chopsticks, China is the first country in the world to use chopsticks and has a history of at least 3,000 years to have meals with chopsticks. Chopsticks seem quite simple with two small and thin sticks, but it is in possession of many functions, such as picking, moving, nipping, mixing and digging; moreover, it is convenient for use and cheap in price. Besides, chopsticks are also unique tableware in the world. Anyone using chopsticks, no matter Chinese or foreigners, would without exception admire the inventor of chopsticks.

Using chopsticks is a “piece of cake” for us Chinese, but for foreigners it is rather difficult. Here are some notes you’d better remember how to use chopsticks. First, you must hold the upper part and don’t cross the chopsticks. Second, hold the chopsticks with your thumb, index finger, middle finger and third finger. Third, when you pick the food, use your index finger and middle finger to control the chopsticks. Practice a lot and then you will find it is an easy job.

In ancient times, our ancestors liked to steam or boil food. It was difficult for them to use spoons to dip vegetables in the soup. So they cleverly invented chopsticks to nip food, thus is has become the most convenient tableware in their lives.

The use of chopsticks has been a part of Chinese food culture. There are some taboos of using chopsticks that you must pay great attention to, or you may make mistake and be laughed at. First, don’t use chopsticks to beat the bowl or plate to make noise, because it is believed that only beggar would do this to beg food. Second, do not insert chopsticks in a bowl upright because it is a custom exclusively used in sacrifice.

Nowadays, chopsticks serve many new functions besides tableware. For example, you can send a pair of chopsticks as a gift to your friends and relatives. In Chinese, “chopsticks” read “kuaizi”, which means to have sons soon, so a newly-married couple will be very happy to accept chopsticks as their wedding gift.

So, what are you waiting for? Just take your chopsticks and enjoy the Chinese delicious food!