Global Gastronomy: 5 Best Street Foods You Need to Taste

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We are incredibly lucky here in the UK to have a variety of food to try and enjoy as we have a huge melting pot of cultures right on our doorstep.

So if you are craving an adventure for your taste buds, look no further than the vibrant world of street food, where every bite tells a story and every flavour leaves a lasting impression.

There are so many to pick from that we have narrowed it down to the 5 best street foods from around the globe to try, each one a delicious representation of its country’s unique culture and flavours.

From Mexico’s savoury Taco Al Pastor to India’s flavorful Pav Bhaji, Turkey’s hearty Kokoreç, Vietnam’s iconic Banh Mi, and Colombia’s mouthwatering Arepa, get ready to savour a whirlwind of flavours that will transport you to the bustling streets of these culinary destinations. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the rich tapestry of global gastronomy through these irresistible dishes.

Taco Al Pastor – Mexico

Taco Al Pastor, a beloved Mexican street food, offers a tantalizing blend of flavours and textures that will leave you craving more.

This iconic dish features thinly sliced marinated pork, cooked on a vertical spit, giving it a mouthwatering charred exterior and juicy interior. The meat is then served on a warm corn tortilla, piled high with fresh pineapple, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The combination of savoury meat, sweet pineapple, and zesty toppings creates a harmony of flavours that will transport you to the bustling streets of Mexico City.

We are a huge fan of Mexican food in this house, there is just something about the spice and flavours that make your mouth come to life. Unfortunately, I have not mastered the art of it at home yet, but will continue to try as it is one of my favourite cuisines. There are lots of great restaurants to try or try a Mexican Street Food pop-up shop next time you are near one.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savour this delectable street food classic during your culinary travels.

Pav Bhaji – India

Pav Bhaji is a popular street food in India that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its spicy and flavorful combination.

This dish consists of a mashed vegetable curry, typically made with potatoes, tomatoes, peas, and spices, served with a buttered and toasted bun. The rich and savoury curry is loaded with fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, giving it a bold and vibrant taste. The soft, buttery bun is the perfect vessel for soaking up the delicious curry, creating a satisfying and indulgent bite.

Before researching this post, I had never come across this dish but now I have I am planning to try it. This is a great Pav Bahji recipe to try, should you want ot give it a try.

Get ready to experience a burst of flavours with every mouthful as you dive into a plate of Pav Bhaji during your culinary adventures.

Next up, let’s explore another street food delight, Kokoreç – Turkey, that will surely leave you craving more.

Chicken Gyros – Greece

Ok, this dish is up there with one that I could happily eat every day and one that I am planning to enjoy on our trip to Rhodes next year.

Have you ever sunk your teeth into a warm, savoury Greek chicken gyro? The juicy chicken, tangy tzatziki sauce, crisp vegetables, and soft pita bread all come together in a delectable explosion of flavours that will transport you straight to the streets of Greece.

But what makes these handheld sandwiches so irresistible?

For me, it is the simple flavours on the warm chicken but packed out with the delicious tzatziki sauce. It is just like the perfect marriage made in heaven, plus it is packed with veggies too, so it is all about balance!

One of my favourite things about this is the fact you can make it at home so easily and it is the perfect summer dish, if you are looking to recreate this dish, why not check out this great recipe?

Next, we will delve into another delicious street food delight with Banh Mi – Vietnam, a flavorful sandwich that combines French and Vietnamese culinary influences into one delicious bite.

Banh Mi – Vietnam

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese street food favourite that has taken the culinary world by storm with its unique blend of French and Vietnamese flavours.

This delectable sandwich typically features a crispy baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as pickled vegetables, flavorful meats like pork belly or grilled chicken, fresh herbs, and spicy chilli sauce. The balance of textures and flavours in Banh Mi creates a symphony for your taste buds, making it a must-try street food option for food enthusiasts.

You can adapt this to suit your taste buds and mix it up depending on what you have or what is on offer.

Prepare your palate for the next delightful street food experience with Arepa – Colombia, a delicious cornmeal patty filled with an assortment of savory ingredients that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Colombia in just one bite.

Arepa – Colombia

Prepare your palate for the next delightful street food experience with Arepa – Colombia, a delicious cornmeal patty filled with an assortment of savoury ingredients that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Colombia in just one bite.

Arepas are a staple in Colombian cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for their versatility and mouth-watering flavours. These golden-brown discs are typically grilled, baked, or fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft and fluffy interior.

The beauty of Arepas lies in their endless filling options, ranging from traditional choices like shredded beef, black beans, and cheese to more modern interpretations featuring avocado, shrimp, or even pulled pork. Whether you prefer a simple yet satisfying Arepa con Queso or a loaded Arepa Rumbera packed with a medley of ingredients, each bite is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Colombia’s diverse culinary landscape shines through in the variety of Arepa fillings available across the country, reflecting the richness of its culture and the creativity of its people. From bustling street markets to cosy cafes, Arepas can be found on almost every corner in Colombia, making them a convenient and delicious snack for all occasions. So, if you find yourself in Colombia or simply want to experience a taste of this vibrant country, be sure to indulge in an Arepa for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Regardless of what you choose, you know that you are in for a culinary adventure when you step outside your comfort zone. Food doesn’t need to be about the fancy restaurants or even the stars. It needs to be about passion and cooking from the heart and sometimes some of the best food in the world comes from street food as those making it share their joy with the food they are cooking.

As you explore the vibrant world of global gastronomy, remember that food is not just about nourishment – it’s about culture, tradition, and connection. So, go out there and taste the world! Bon appétit!