One of the big advantages of living in a globalized society is opportunities for culinary exploration that it affords. For today’s urban-dwellers, high levels of immigration in most countries have it possible to get a taste of an incredible variety of world foods brought by people from all over the planet without having to venture far from their house. With an astonishing assortment of food possibilities from all around the world right on our doorstep, here are a few that you should definitely check out next time you feel peckish.
1. Maslala Dosa, India
Best described as spicy masala potato mix wrapped up in a crispy rice pancake, the masala dosas are eaten by hand and accompanied with coconut chutney, pickles and a tomato- and lentil-based dip. A perfect feast for any time of the day.
2. Penang Assam Laksa, Malaysia
A sour fish and onion noodle soup with tons of tamarind, chili, lemongrass, mint and pineapple, Penang assam laksa is one of Malaysia’s most popular dishes. Great for those of us that need a good hit of spice do get the taste buds working.
3. Tacos al Pastor, Mexico
Forget Tex-Mex fajitas and burritos; if you want a taste of authentic Mexican tacos, look no further than tacos al pastor. Tender pork marinated to perfection and then grilled kebab-style before being served in soft corn tortillas with copious amounts of cilantro, onion, salsa and a slice of pineapple to top it off.
4. Chicken Muamba, Angola
An aromatic chicken stew cooked with garlic, butternut squash, okra, chili and palm butter. This delightful Angolan dish is the perfect remedy to warm you up on cold winter nights and will have you gagging for more.
5. Arepas, Venezuela
Although they are very popular in Colombia, it is the Venezuelans who hold the legitimate claim to having invented the arepa. Simple yet delicious, arepas are made from flat, unleavened corn patties which are lightly fried and topped with a choice of meat, chicken or cheese and salsa.
6. Bunny Chow, South Africa
This South African fast-food dish consists of nothing more than a hollowed-out section of bread which is filled with a delectable spicy curry. The dish was purportedly invented by South Indian immigrants to South Africa, and contrary to what the name suggests, it does not contain rabbit
7. Tagine, Morocco
Morocco’s most famous dish is a succulent slow-cooked stew containing a mixture of poultry, fish or meat and flavoured with tomatoes, apricots and dates. It is traditionally eaten with soft couscous that brings out the rich flavors of the sauce.
Only when we look back at the limited diets of our forbearers of just a few generations ago do we begin to understand how lucky we are to have such an incredible array of culinary delights at our fingertips. If you were in need of any pointers regarding your next excursion into the world of ethnic food, look no further than the tasty foods in this list.