10 Must-Try International Foods for Beginners: Expand Your Culinary Horizons!

Food is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. It’s a delicious way to explore the world without leaving your kitchen. If you’re new to international cuisine, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 must-try international foods for beginners that will expand your culinary horizons and tantalize your taste buds.

1. Sushi (Japan)

Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish that consists of vinegared rice accompanied by various ingredients such as raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. It’s a great introduction to Japanese cuisine and offers a unique combination of flavors and textures.

2. Tacos (Mexico)

Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine. They consist of a tortilla filled with various ingredients like beef, chicken, seafood, beans, cheese, and salsa. They’re versatile, delicious, and a great way to start exploring Mexican food.

3. Pizza (Italy)

While pizza has become a global phenomenon, it originated in Italy. Traditional Italian pizza features a thin, crispy crust, simple but high-quality toppings like mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil, and is cooked in a wood-fired oven.

4. Pad Thai (Thailand)

Pad Thai is a popular street food in Thailand. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish typically made with shrimp, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime. It’s a flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and salty.

5. Paella (Spain)

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in Valencia. It’s a rice dish that can include a variety of ingredients like seafood, chicken, rabbit, and vegetables, all cooked together in a large, shallow pan.

6. Shawarma (Middle East)

Shawarma is a popular street food in many Middle Eastern countries. It’s made by roasting meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) on a vertical spit, then slicing it off and serving it in a pita with vegetables and sauce.

7. Poutine (Canada)

Poutine is a Canadian dish that consists of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s a hearty, comfort food that’s perfect for a cold day.

8. Currywurst (Germany)

Currywurst is a popular German fast food dish. It consists of steamed, then fried pork sausage, cut into slices and seasoned with curry ketchup, a sauce based on spiced ketchup or tomato paste, itself topped with curry powder.

9. Feijoada (Brazil)

Feijoada is a black bean stew that is considered the national dish of Brazil. It’s made with black beans and a variety of pork cuts, and is typically served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

10. Jollof Rice (West Africa)

Jollof Rice is a one-pot rice dish popular in many West African countries. It’s made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices, and can be served with meat or vegetables.

Trying international foods is a great way to learn about different cultures and expand your culinary horizons. So why not start with these 10 delicious dishes? Bon appétit!