What will you eat for lunch today? In some countries, lunchtime often means soup time! There are many kinds of soups served around the world. Some are as thin and clear as water. Some are as thick as stews. Others are full of noodles!

Soup is just one thing that can be eaten for lunch. What you eat for lunch may be different from the lunch of someone who lives in another country. Let’s take a look around the world to see what kids are eating for lunch.

Mexico

Many children in Mexico eat tortillas for lunch. Most tortillas are made from ground corn, but sometimes wheat in used. Tortillas are usually flat and round, but they can also be made into other shapes. Taco shells are made from corn tortillas and filled with beans or meat. Tasty sauces, called salsas, are often added to tacos. These sauces are made from tomatoes, onions, hot peppers and spices.

Russia

Winters in Russia are very cold. Maybe that’s why many Russian children eat soup for lunch. Two of their favourites are cabbage soup and beef soup.

Many Russian soups also include potatoes. Potatoes are an important crop in Russia. They make soups thick. Eating thick soups can help keep people warm and can fill them up, so hunger is no problem!

South Korea

Meals in Korea are made up of many dishes. No matter what else is served, there is always rice. Kimchi is also always on the table. Kimchi is pickled（腌制的）meat or vegetables. Korean children mix together many dishes and flavors at meals. It’s common for their food to be hot and spicy.

Thailand

Lunch in Thailand often includes noodles. There are many ways to serve noodles. One popular dish is made with thin rice noodles, tofu and shrimp. Another favourite way to eat rice noodles is with meat, vegetables and thick gravy.