There’s no denying that British cuisine is amazing, even when the rest of the world tells us otherwise. However, there are also plenty of incredible dishes elsewhere, and if you don’t try them, you’re missing out. Here are 18 iconic foods from around the world you must try.
Sushi – Japan
An integral part of Japanese cuisine, sushi offers a unique experience with every bite. Traditionally crafted with vinegared rice, fresh fish, and vegetables, it presents a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Always remember that not all sushi uses raw fish; as Noya London points out, this is only found in a specific type of sushi called sashimi.
Tacos – Mexico
The beloved Mexican street food of tacos showcases versatility at its best. Soft or crunchy tortillas envelop various ingredients like seasoned meats, beans, and fresh vegetables. Each bite bursts with flavors, enhanced by toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime. However, don’t be fooled into thinking you’ve tried the real deal in the UK; authentic Mexican tacos are the only way to truly experience them.
Pizza – Italy
Everyone loves pizza, but few have tried the original recipe from Naples, Italy, which stands as a universal comfort food. It’s a harmonious combination of a thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, creating a simple yet irresistible dish. True Napoli pizza is also far healthier than the greasy, sodium-packed stuff we get in the UK.
Croissant – France
Just like with pizza, don’t be fooled into thinking you’ve eaten a real croissant if you’ve only bought them from Aldi. France’s iconic pastry, the croissant, boasts buttery, flaky layers that melt in your mouth, and you simply have to try them in Paris. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack, pairing delightfully with coffee or tea.
Paella – Spain
While paella is commonly cooked in British homes, the traditional Spanish dish from Valencia is much more authentic. Saffron-infused rice cooked with a mix of seafood, chicken, and vegetables creates a vibrant and aromatic meal. Believe it or not, it’s actually seriously frowned upon to cook yourself a paella in Spain, as it is traditionally cooked for at least two people to share.
Dim Sum – China
Dim sum, a Chinese culinary treasure, features an assortment of bite-sized delicacies served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Dumplings, buns, and rolls filled with meats, seafood, and vegetables offer a delightful variety. They’re often enjoyed during brunch as a social and flavorful experience; you simply mustn’t visit China without trying them.
Biryani – India
Ah, biryani, the fragrant and flavorful Indian dish that Brits crave on a Friday night. This incredible dish combines long-grain basmati rice with aromatic spices, meat, and vegetables. Slow-cooked to perfection, it offers a rich and satisfying taste. Each region in India (and Pakistan) has its own version, reflecting local culinary traditions and preferences.
Poutine – Canada
Recently, Canada’s comfort food, poutine, has been making appearances in British pubs, but it’s just not the same as the real deal. Authentic poutine features crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy, a recipe that originates from the state of Quebec. It’s the perfect indulgent dish for satisfying cravings, and you can bet all the Canadian locals will be enjoying it after a heavy night on the beers.
Falafel – Middle East
Like many dishes on this list, falafel, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, simply isn’t the same here in the UK. The proper stuff consists of fresh deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans seasoned with herbs and spices. They’re often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce and will never be frozen and processed like the stuff we get here in Great Britain.
Feijoada – Brazil
Another iconic food from around the world you simply have to try is feijoada, a hearty Brazilian stew that features black beans slow-cooked with various cuts of pork and beef. Traditionally served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices, it’s a rich and flavorful dish often enjoyed during family gatherings.
Goulash – Hungary
A lot of people think that goulash comes from Russia, but in reality, it’s Hungary’s national dish. This robust stew is made with tender beef, paprika, onions, and potatoes, usually served with bread or noodles. The slow-cooked ingredients meld together, creating a hearty meal perfect for colder climates. Why we don’t eat it more often in the UK, we have no idea.
Bibimbap – South Korea
One of the lesser-known dishes on this list is bibimbap, a signature South Korean dish that features a bowl of warm rice topped with an assortment of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg. Mixed with gochujang (Korean chili paste), it offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Best of all, it’s both nutritious and visually appealing, reflecting Korea’s culinary artistry.
Moussaka – Greece
Any Brit who has visited Greece on holiday will know about moussaka, a classic dish that layers eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole is rich in flavors and textures, offering a taste of Mediterranean comfort. Often accompanied by a fresh salad and crusty bread, it’s truly a delightful and filling meal.
Pad Thai – Thailand
Thai food is becoming very popular in the UK, but it’s nothing compared to authentic street food. Pad Thai is a perfect example of this, combining stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Flavored with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and lime, it’s a dish that balances sweet, sour, and savory notes in a truly spectacular way.
Wiener Schnitzel – Austria
Wiener Schnitzel, Austria’s renowned dish, features a thin breaded and fried veal cutlet. Served with a slice of lemon, potato salad, or lingonberry sauce, it offers a simple yet elegant dining experience. This classic dish showcases the best of Austrian cuisine, so don’t miss it when you visit.
Tagine – Morocco
Food doesn’t get much better than Moroccan cuisine, especially when it comes to tagine, a traditional stew. It’s named after the earthenware pot, which is cooked slowly with spices, vegetables, and meat. The result is a fragrant and flavorful dish, complemented beautifully by tender meat and a rich, aromatic sauce.
Tom Yum Goong – Thailand
Thailand simply has too much delicious food to list here today, but we have to give an honorable mention to Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour Thai soup. It features shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, and fragrant herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves combined into a hot, tangy, and savory flavor. It’s usually enjoyed as a starter, preparing the palate for a flavorful meal.
Pierogi – Poland
Perhaps our favorite dish on this list is pierogi, a traditional Polish dumpling that is filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, meat, or even fruit. They’re boiled and then sometimes fried, served with sour cream, fried onions, or compote, depending on the filling. It’s a truly simple yet versatile dish, enjoyed by just about every Polish local and tourist.