As the saying goes, a good meal is all it takes to make someone happy. While there are many ways to discover new food cultures, one of the best routes any food enthusiast should take is exploring street food. Street food offers us the unique opportunity to experience the flavours, spices and cooking techniques of different cultures, all while immersing ourselves in the hustle and bustle of the locals. Here are some of the best street foods from around the world that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.
First on the list is the iconic Mexican dish, Tacos al Pastor. This popular dish consists of marinated pork served on a soft tortilla shell, garnished with freshly diced pineapple, onion, and a spicy sauce. The meat is typically cooked on a spit, and the result is a delicious smoky and juicy taste that blends perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.
Next up is the hearty and filling American dish, Philly Cheesesteak. Originating from Philadelphia, the sandwich consists of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and melted cheese, all served on a crispy hoagie roll. This dish is a perfect combination of flavours, textures, and temperatures and is an absolute must-try for any meat lover.
From the Middle East, we have the ever-popular Falafel, which is essentially a crispy, fried ball of ground chickpeas and spices, served in a fresh pita bread with tahini sauce, salad, and a dash of hot sauce. The beauty of Falafel is that it is vegan, filling and healthy; perfect for anyone in need of a quick and tasty vegetarian meal.
On the Asian side, we have Pad Thai. A dish that originated from Thailand, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish cooked with tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, and topped with peanuts and lime wedges. The key to making a scrumptious Pad Thai lies in the perfectly balanced sour, sweet and spicy flavors, all marrying together to create an explosion of taste in your mouth.
From India, we have the ever-popular Samosas. This triangular shaped fried pastry is stuffed with a variety of fillings such as potatoes, onions, peas, carrots, and various spices and herbs. Samosas are usually served with different sauces, from tangy tamarind to spicy mint chutney. A perfect tea-time snack, Samosas are a must-try street food for any visitor to India.
Last but not least is the ever-popular dish from Japan, Takoyaki. Originating in Osaka, Takoyaki is a ball-shaped snack made with wheat flour and filled with chopped octopus. The balls are cooked in a special mould and served with a variety of sauces and condiments such as soy sauce, mayonnaise, and dried bonito. Takoyaki is an addictive snack that is perfect as a light meal or a fun snack while exploring the city at night.
Overall, street food has gained a reputation as being cheap, quick, and delicious. It is the perfect way to experience different cultures, immerse yourself in the culture of the locals and, best of all, satisfy your hunger and cravings with great tasting food. So, pack your bags, travel to new places and don’t forget to try the local street food when you get there!
