The Top 10 Best Street Foods to Try Around the World

Travel the World One Bite at a Time: The Top 10 Best Street Foods to Try

Introduction

Street food is the ultimate way to experience local cuisine while on the go. From savory snacks to sweet treats, street food vendors offer a wide variety of options that are both delicious and affordable.

These vendors can be found all over the world, serving up their signature dishes on busy streets, in bustling markets, and at festivals. The popularity of street food can be attributed to its accessibility, authenticity, and cultural significance.

It’s an accessible option for people who are constantly on-the-go or looking for a quick bite to eat. Additionally, street food has deep roots in local cultures and traditions, making it an authentic way to experience the flavors of a new destination.

Without further ado, here’s a brief overview of the top 10 best street foods to try around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first international trip, these dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!

Tacos in Mexico

The Traditional Mexican Taco

When you think of Mexican cuisine, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is tacos. And for good reason!

Tacos are an essential part of Mexican culture and cuisine, and they come in many different forms. The traditional Mexican taco is made with a soft corn tortilla filled with seasoned meat (usually beef or pork), chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

However, the beauty of tacos is their versatility – you can add just about any ingredient you like to customize them to your taste. The ingredients used in traditional Mexican tacos may vary depending on the region or even the street vendor you visit.

Some popular toppings include guacamole, salsa, sour cream, lettuce, and cheese. One important aspect of traditional tacos is that they are small enough to be eaten with one hand – this makes them perfect for on-the-go eating while exploring all that Mexico has to offer.

Popular Taco Variations

While traditional tacos are delicious on their own, there are plenty of variations worth trying during your travels through Mexico. Here are just a few:

– Al Pastor: This type of taco features marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit (similar to shawarma). It’s typically served with pineapple chunks and topped with cilantro and onions.

– Carnitas: Made with slow-cooked pork shoulder that’s been shredded into tender pieces, carnitas tacos are often served with diced onions and avocado slices. – Fish Tacos: These tacos originated in Baja California but have since become popular throughout Mexico.

Typically made with battered or grilled white fish like cod or tilapia, these tacos often feature cabbage slaw and tangy sour cream sauce. No matter what type of taco you choose to try while in Mexico, make sure to savor every bite – there’s nothing quite like a fresh, hot taco straight from the street vendor!

The Delicious History of Pad Thai in Thailand

Pad Thai is a popular street food that has become synonymous with Thai cuisine. It is a stir-fried noodle dish that is typically made with rice noodles, vegetables, protein (such as shrimp or chicken), egg, and garnished with peanuts and cilantro.

But have you ever wondered about the history behind this tasty dish? The origins of pad thai can be traced back to World War II when Thailand was experiencing a shortage of rice due to the war.

The government at the time encouraged citizens to eat more noodles instead of rice, and thus began the popularity of noodle dishes in Thailand. To make up for the lack of flavor in these new noodle dishes, vendors started adding flavors like tamarind paste and fish sauce.

Ingredients Used in Pad Thai and How It’s Prepared

While there are variations on what goes into pad thai depending on who you ask, there are some common ingredients found in most traditional recipes. Rice noodles are used as the base for the dish and proteins such as shrimp or chicken are added for flavor and nutrition.

Vegetables such as bean sprouts, cabbage, green onions, and garlic provide crunchiness as well as extra nutrients. The sauce is where all the magic happens.

A combination of tamarind paste (for sweetness), fish sauce (for saltiness), chili flakes (for spice), and palm sugar (to balance out all of these flavors) create a unique blend that makes pad thai so flavorful. To prepare pad thai at home you’ll need a wok or large skillet over high heat.

Add oil followed by garlic and cook until fragrant before adding your protein. Once your protein has cooked through add your vegetables before finally adding cooked noodles along with eggs scrambled into small pieces throughout.

Where to Find Authentic Pad Thai in Thailand

While it’s possible to find pad thai in most Thai restaurants around the world, there is nothing quite like trying a delicious plate of it from its birthplace. Bangkok, specifically the area around Tha Phra Chan and Thip Samai Pad Thai, is known for serving up some of the best pad thai in Thailand.

The dish can also be found at street vendors throughout Bangkok as well as in popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Chiang Mai. But don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path to find your own favorite spot.

Some of the best pad thai I’ve had were from small food stalls down random alleys that I never would have found if I didn’t explore a bit. That’s part of what makes traveling so fun – discovering hidden gems!

Poutine in Canada

What is poutine?

Poutine is a Canadian dish that consists of fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It’s a popular fast-food item in Canada and has become increasingly popular worldwide.

The dish originated in Quebec in the 1950s and has since become a staple in Canadian cuisine. The beauty of poutine lies in its simplicity.

It’s comfort food at its finest – crispy fries topped with gooey cheese curds smothered in hot gravy. The flavors blend together seamlessly, creating a savory explosion that leaves you wanting more.

The origin story behind poutine

The exact origin of poutine is unclear, but it’s believed to have been created at a restaurant called Le Lutin Qui Rit (The Laughing Elf) located just outside Quebec City. Legend has it that one day, a customer asked the owner for fries with cheese curds on top, and the owner thought it sounded strange but decided to give it a try.

He then poured hot gravy over the top to create what we now know as poutine. Over time, different variations of poutine have emerged across Canada – some with different types of cheese or meat added into the mix.

The best places to find poutine in Canada

If you’re visiting Canada, trying poutine should be at the top of your list. While you can find it at most fast-food chains like McDonald’s or Burger King, for an authentic experience head to Montreal or Quebec City where you’ll find some of the best spots.

One popular spot is La Banquise in Montreal which serves over 30 different varieties of poutine including classic, vegetarian and even breakfast options. Another must-visit spot is Chez Ashton located throughout Quebec City which serves up delicious homemade gravy on their famous crispy fries.

If you’re in Toronto, head to Poutini’s House of Poutine which serves up generous portions of classic poutine made with hand-cut fries and real cheese curds. No matter where you go, be sure to try this Canadian classic and see for yourself why it’s so beloved.

Falafel in Israel: The Ultimate Street Food Experience

If you’re in Israel, you must try falafel! This delicious fried ball of chickpeas is a staple in Israeli cuisine.

Falafel has been around for thousands of years and is believed to have originated in Egypt before being adopted by Israelis. It’s a dish that’s popular throughout the country, from street vendors to high-end restaurants.

The Significance of Falafel in Israeli Cuisine

Falafel is more than just a food item; it represents the history, culture, and identity of Israeli people. In fact, falafel has become so ingrained in Israeli cuisine that it has become the national dish of Israel. It’s often served as a fast food option or as part of a mezze platter at family gatherings and celebrations.

Traditional Falafel Ingredients and Preparation Methods

Traditional falafel is made by mixing ground chickpeas with herbs like parsley and cilantro, along with spices such as cumin and coriander. The mixture is then formed into balls or patties and fried until crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Some variations also include fava beans or use tahini sauce as a topping.

One thing to note about falafel preparation is that some places will fry their falafels right before serving them, while others make them ahead of time and reheat them upon ordering. While both methods can yield delicious results, some people prefer fresh-fried falafels for their extra crispiness.

The Best Places to Find Falafel in Israel

If you find yourself wandering around Israel looking for some good street food options, look no further than the colorful shuk markets scattered around cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Many of these markets have vendors selling freshly made falafel, often accompanied by hummus, pickled vegetables, and pita bread. Another option is to visit established falafel joints that have been around for decades, such as Falafel Gabai in Jerusalem or the famous Falafel Hakosem in Tel Aviv.

These places are known for their quality ingredients and authentic recipes that have stood the test of time. No Israeli food experience is complete without trying falafel.

Whether you’re a fan of street food or prefer a sit-down meal, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy this beloved dish. And with its delicious flavors and cultural significance, it’s no wonder why falafel has become one of Israel’s most iconic foods.

The Iconic Bánh Mì: A Vietnamese Street Food Delight

Explanation of bánh mì and its cultural significance

Bánh mì is a popular Vietnamese sandwich that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique blend of flavors and textures. It is a perfect example of how French colonialism influenced Vietnamese cuisine.

The term “bánh mì” means bread, but it is also used to refer to the sandwich itself. The traditional bánh mì consists of a crispy baguette filled with pickled carrots, daikon radish, cilantro, sliced chili peppers, and various meats such as pork belly, grilled chicken or beef.

The cultural significance of bánh mì goes beyond just being a tasty snack. It represents the fusion between French and Vietnamese cultures.

During the French colonial period in Vietnam (1887-1954), French baguettes were introduced to Vietnam – but because they were expensive, only wealthy Vietnamese could afford them. After independence from France in 1954, ordinary people started consuming these baguettes by making sandwiches with affordable ingredients like meatballs or sardines.

Ingredients used to make bánh mì sandwiches

Making an authentic bánh mì sandwich involves using fresh ingredients that provide different textures and flavors. The main ingredient is the baguette which should have a crispy crust on the outside with soft chewy bread inside.

The filling includes thinly sliced meat like pork belly or chicken liver pate mixed with savory sauce like hoisin sauce or fish sauce. Adding pickled vegetables such as carrots, daikon radish and cucumber slices provide a crunchy texture that compliments the soft meat perfectly while adding some sourness to balance out any sweetness from sauces used in the filling.

Cilantro leaves give freshness and flavor notes while sliced chili peppers add heat and spiciness. Other ingredients that can be used include fried egg, tofu, and mayonnaise depending on one’s preference.

Where to find the best bánh mì shops

One of the best places to find delicious bánh mì is on the streets of Vietnam. In every corner, you’ll find small carts or vendors selling freshly made sandwiches at affordable prices.

Some of the best-known places in Vietnam include Banh Mi 25 in Ho Chi Minh City, Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An and Banh Mi Huynh Hoa in Saigon. However, bánh mì is not just limited to Vietnam.

You can now find it all over the world – from France to Australia and even America! Apart from street vendors or local eateries, many Vietnamese restaurants now offer bánh mì sandwiches as a staple menu item.

Trying out a delicious bánh mì sandwich is a must when visiting Vietnam or any other destination offering this popular street food. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it represents an iconic dish that has transcended both time and culture while remaining true to its origins – making it a truly remarkable culinary experience for anyone who tries it!

Currywurst in Germany

What is currywurst?

Currywurst is a popular street food in Germany that consists of sliced sausage covered in a tomato-based sauce and sprinkled with curry powder. It’s typically served with a side of fries or bread, making it the perfect quick and easy meal on the go. The dish has become a staple of German cuisine, with variations available that include vegan options or spicy sauces.

The history behind currywurst

The origins of currywurst can be traced back to Berlin in 1949, where Herta Heuwer first sold the dish from her street food stand. She created the recipe by mixing together ketchup and curry powder she had acquired from British soldiers stationed in Germany after World War II. The dish quickly gained popularity and soon became a cultural icon across Germany.

How it’s made, served, and enjoyed

To make currywurst, sausages are first grilled or fried until they’re cooked through. They’re then sliced up and smothered with a sweet tomato sauce that’s been seasoned with curry powder. A side of fries or bread is usually included to make the meal more filling.

Currywurst can be found at many street food stands across Germany and is often enjoyed as a quick snack on the go. It’s also commonly served at events like festivals or sporting events, where it’s the perfect hearty meal to enjoy while watching your favorite team compete.

Conclusion

There you have it – our top picks for the best street foods around the world! Whether you’re looking for something spicy like tacos in Mexico or something sweet like churros in Spain, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from when it comes to street food. One thing we love about street food is that it offers a unique and authentic taste of local cuisine that you won’t find in typical restaurants.

So next time you’re traveling, be sure to hit up the local street food scene and see what delicious dishes you can discover. Who knows – you might just stumble upon your new favorite meal!