Delois
Street food is a perfect example of part of the dining experience in many parts of the world. For food lovers, trying out new and exciting street food dishes can be an adventure in itself. From the spicy and tangy flavors of Indian chaat to the savory and meaty delights of Mexican tacos, street food has something to offer for everyone.
In this article, we will get a chance to explore some of the most popular and must-try street food dishes from around the world. Let’s learn about the origins of these dishes, their unique flavor profiles, and where to find them. Whether you are planning a trip abroad or simply looking to try something new in your hometown, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to embark on a delicious culinary journey.
Savoring Asia
When it comes to street food, Asia has a lot to offer. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the flavors and aromas of Asian street food are sure to tantalize the taste buds of any foodie. Here are three must-try street foods from across Asia.
China’s Dim Sum
Dim sum is a popular style of Cantonese cuisine that is served in small bite-sized portions. These tasty treats are usually steamed or fried and are often served in bamboo baskets. Some popular dim sum dishes include siu mai (pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns). Dim sum is typically enjoyed as a brunch or lunchtime meal and is often served with tea.
India’s Chaat
Chaat is a type of Indian street food that is known for its bold and spicy flavors. This popular snack food is made with a variety of ingredients, including potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and tamarind chutney. Some popular chaat dishes include bhel puri (puffed rice snack), sev puri (crispy snack topped with chutney and sev), and papdi chaat (crispy dough wafers topped with chutney and yogurt). Chaat is a popular street food in India and can be found in almost every city and town.
Japan’s Takoyaki
Takoyaki is a popular street food in Japan that originated in Osaka. These small, round balls of batter are filled with diced octopus, green onion, and pickled ginger. They are cooked on a special griddle and are typically served with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Takoyaki is a popular snack food in Japan and can be found at street vendors, festivals, and convenience stores.
Tastes of Europe
Europe is a continent rich in history, art, culture, and, of course, food. The street food scene in Europe is as diverse as its countries, and it offers a unique opportunity to taste the local flavors and aromas. Here are a few must-try street foods from Europe:
Italy’s Arancini
Arancini is a traditional Sicilian street food that has gained popularity throughout Italy and beyond. These fried rice balls are stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas, and coated with breadcrumbs. Arancini is a delicious and portable snack that can be enjoyed on the go or as a light meal.
Belgium’s Frites
Belgium is famous for its frites, or French fries, which are a staple of its street food scene. Belgian frites are thicker and crispier than the American counterpart and are served with a variety of sauces, such as mayonnaise, ketchup, and Andalouse. The best way to enjoy Belgian frites is to order them from a street vendor and eat them with a paper cone while strolling around the city.
Turkey’s Simit
Simit is a circular bread with sesame seeds that is a popular street food in Turkey. It is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside and is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. Simit is usually sold from street carts and is best enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea.
Europe offers a wide range of street foods that are as diverse as its countries. From Italian arancini to Belgian frites to Turkish simit, there is something for everyone to taste and enjoy.
Delights of the Americas
When it comes to street food, the Americas offer a wide variety of options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From Mexico’s savory tacos to the USA’s classic hot dogs, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few must-try street foods from the Americas:
Mexico’s Tacos
Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and its street food is no exception. Tacos, in particular, are a staple of Mexican street food and can be found on almost every corner. These handheld delights consist of a soft tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients, such as grilled meats, beans, cheese, and salsa. They are often topped with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or vegetarian options, tacos are a must-try for any street food enthusiast.
USA’s Hot Dogs
When it comes to classic American street food, hot dogs are at the top of the list. These simple yet satisfying treats consist of a grilled or steamed sausage served in a soft bun and topped with a variety of condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions. “Hot dogs come from the German Frankfurter, which was originally sausage. In the U.S., hot dogs tend to be all beef or a mixture of meat trimmings from beef and/or pork” (Oxford Dictionary). Hot dogs are a staple of American culture and can be found at sporting events, festivals, and street corners across the country. Whether you prefer your hot dog plain or loaded with toppings, it’s a must-try for any street food lover.
Brazil’s Acarajé
Acarajé is a popular street food in Brazil, particularly in the northeastern region of the country. These deep-fried balls of black-eyed peas are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp, vegetables, and spicy sauces. They are often served with a side of hot sauce and a slice of lime. Acarajé is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of Brazil’s street food scene.
Overall, the Americas offer a wide variety of street foods that are sure to satisfy any craving. From savory tacos to classic hot dogs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
African Flavors
Africa is a continent with a rich culinary heritage, and its street food is no exception. From savory snacks to sweet treats, African street food is a must-try for any food lover. Here are just a few examples of the delicious flavors you can find on the streets of Africa.
Morocco’s Maakouda
Maakouda is a popular street food in Morocco. These crispy potato fritters are flavored with cumin, coriander, and parsley and are often served with harissa, a spicy red pepper sauce. They are a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the bustling streets of Morocco.
South Africa’s Bunny Chow
Bunny Chow is a South African street food that is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry and is a popular dish in Durban. The curry can be made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables and is often served with a side of sambal, a spicy relish made with chilies and vinegar.
Egypt’s Koshari
Koshari is a popular street food in Egypt that is a hearty and filling dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, and pasta. It is often topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Koshari is a delicious and affordable meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
These are just a few examples of the diverse and delicious street food that can be found in Africa. Whether you are a fan of savory snacks or sweet treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Sampling Street Sweets
When it comes to street food, sweets are a must-try. From Thailand’s Mango Sticky Rice to Portugal’s Pastel de Nata, there is no shortage of delicious treats to indulge in. Here are two street sweets that are definitely worth trying:
Thailand’s Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice is a popular Thai dessert that is made with glutinous rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. The rice is cooked with coconut milk and sugar, giving it a sweet and creamy flavor. It is then topped with fresh mango slices and drizzled with more coconut milk. This dessert is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, and is a must-try for anyone visiting Thailand.
Portugal’s Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata is a traditional Portuguese egg custard tart that is popular throughout the world. The filling is made with eggs, sugar, and cream, and is baked in a flaky pastry shell. It is believed that for the best result, the filling should not be too sweet and should not have flavors of lemon nor vanilla. Instead, the tarts should be sprinkled with cinnamon and, ideally, paired with a cup of coffee. This dessert is a perfect example of the delicious and unique flavors that you can find in street food around the world.
When you are ready to try some of these street foods in person, contact me to curate a travel itinerary to launch your next adventure. Great travels to you!
Photo Credits:
hot-thai-kitchen.com
tak.wing, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
https://www.tasteatlas.com/maakouda
Keith Pomakis, CC BY-SA 2.5 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5>, via Wikimedia Commons
thetravelbite.com
www.internationalcuisine.com
www.dimsumcentral.com
travelfoodatlas.com
mexicoinmykitchen.com
