People who identify as South Asian often use the term desi to describe their heritage. It refers to anyone who can trace their ancestry to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. But some say the term is too narrow, erasing a vast diversity of cultures and histories.

Desi is a self-appellation derived from the Sanskrit desa (country, region) and the related term svddesh (nationality). It reflects a food culture centered on eating agricultural and natural products "in season" based on the belief that they are more potent and flavorful.