[3] Some countries such as Mexico, China or India, because of their diverse ethnic populations, cultures, and cuisines, do not have a single national dish, even unofficially.
In Latin America, dishes may be claimed or designated as a plato nacional,[351] although in many cases, recipes transcend national borders with only minor variations.
[citation needed] Preparations of ceviche are endemic in Peru and Ecuador, while a thin cut of beef known as matambre is considered close to being a national dish in Paraguay.
[2] The identification of Latin American national dishes is stronger among expatriate communities in North America.
In expatriate communities, the dish is strongly reclaimed in order to retain the sense of national identity and ties to one's homeland, and is proudly served in homes and restaurants.