Travel may be impossible, but you can still eat your way across the world without ever having to leave your house. Whether you require a little self-love in a bowl, want to test new tastes, or simply seek creative weeknight dinner ideas, these interesting food recipes are sure to do the trick.
We toured the world cuisines and cultures to include fuzzy and warm soups, meaty meals, plant-based plates, and much more to create fuzzy and warm feelings. Starting with gooey Mexican enchiladas, Spicy Korean Kimchi Jjigae, and West African peanut butter soup, we'll take you on a foodie journey with every one of these international recipes.
1. Tahdig (Persian Rice)
Tahdig, or Iranian rice, is one of the staple foods of Iran. The name "Tahdig" is derived from the Persian words for "bottom of the pot," signifying the crunchy, golden crust that forms at the base of the pot. Preparing the dish involves two-stage cooking: first steaming the rice and subsequently pressing the steamed rice grains into an olive oil greased pan (sometimes with turmeric for coloring).
The result is a crunchy exterior with soft rice on top. Usually served with stews or grilled meat, tahdig is prized for its texture contrast. In Iranian culture, the crunchy crust is highly coveted, and there are friendly fights over who gets to eat it.
2. Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Adobo is a Filipino favorite, which is usually cooked with meat or fish simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and onions. The dish has a history dating from Spanish colonial times when marinating meat in vinegar kept it fresh in the warm tropical environment.
This Instant Pot recipe uses inexpensive chicken thighs and cooks the meal within 30 minutes without losing the signature savory and tangy flavor. Adobo is usually eaten with rice and is a staple comfort food in Filipino homes, enjoyed because of its simplicity and great flavor.
3. Spicy Korean Kimchi Jjigae
A spicy fermented cabbage, kimchi is the national dish of Korea and is served with nearly every meal. Kimchi is the main ingredient in Kimchi Jjigae, which is a spicy, savory stew made with thinly sliced beef, cubed tofu, garlic, and gochujang (Korean chili paste).
Often eaten as a one-pot dinner, it's a cozy staple, particularly during the winter. By serving the stew with steamed white rice, the strong heat is subdued and the rich, delicious tastes are accentuated. This meal represents the centuries-old Korean practice of pickling vegetables, with kimchi playing a major role in Korean cooking.
4. West African Peanut Butter Soup
West African peanut butter soup is creamy and rich, and features chicken, okra, eggplant, and a peanut butter, ginger, and chicken stock broth. The soup is West African in origin and comforting and healthy, which is perfect for a cold day.
Peanuts, which came to the continent from the Americas, are now utilized in nearly all West African cuisine. The combination of savory and sweet flavors in the soup is just so satisfying. It's also a great meal prep choice because it freezes nicely and might be served over rice or fufu.
5. Greek Eggplant Moussaka
Made with eggplant, potatoes, and a spiced meat sauce—typically lamb or beef—Greek moussaka is a layered casserole, often paired with a fresh Greek salad. The dish's thick béchamel sauce on top makes it a hearty and decadent supper. Like lasagna, moussaka uses eggplant in place of noodles.
Despite its Middle Eastern roots, the meal was modified in Greece, and its use of spices like allspice and cinnamon reflects the rich history of the area. Moussaka is a satisfying family meal that is simple to prepare despite its many layers.
6. Mexican Pork Enchiladas
A traditional Mexican comfort dish with many variations is enchiladas, sometimes enjoyed alongside a fluffy Mexican pancake. This dish calls for pulled pork, which can be produced from a soft pork shoulder cooked in a pressure cooker or leftover cooked pork. Before being cooked, the pork is filled inside corn tortillas, covered with enchilada sauce, and topped with cheese.
Enchiladas are enticing because of the combination of the gooey cheese and the zesty sauce. Originally made with beans and chili, enchiladas date back to ancient Mexico. They are now an integral part of Mexican cooking and can be eaten with a variety of fillings.
These six unique dishes showcase the diverse flavors and rich culinary traditions from around the world. Each recipe offers a delicious glimpse into different cultures, bringing global comfort to your table.
Also Read: How to Make Delicious Korean Street Food 'Tteokbokki' at Home
