15 Unique and Growing International Food Recipes You Should Try

Food is an essential part of every culture, and each country offers a rich tapestry of dishes that are unique to their own history, geography, and traditions. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or just someone looking to explore new flavors, trying international recipes is a great way to experience different cultures. Here, we bring you 15 international recipes that are not only delicious but also showcase unique, growing food trends from across the globe. These dishes are an exciting blend of tradition and innovation, and they are sure to add a world of flavor to your kitchen.

1. Shakshuka (Middle Eastern and North African)

Originating from the Middle East and North Africa, shakshuka is a hearty and flavorful dish made of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, seasoned with cumin, paprika, garlic, and onions. It’s usually served with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, making it a perfect brunch or light dinner option. This dish has grown in popularity globally, especially in cafes, due to its simplicity and rich flavor. You can customize the dish by adding ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 4 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft.
3. Add garlic, tomatoes, cumin, and paprika, then simmer until the tomatoes break down.
4. Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into each well.
5. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your desired consistency.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm bread.

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2. Sushi Burrito (Japan)

The sushi burrito is a fusion of two popular dishes: sushi and burritos. This innovative creation features sushi ingredients wrapped in a large sheet of nori, resembling a burrito. Filled with fresh fish, rice, vegetables, and sometimes spicy mayo, sushi burritos offer a convenient, portable way to enjoy sushi. It has been embraced globally, especially by foodies seeking a unique take on traditional sushi.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sheet of nori
• 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
• 100g sashimi-grade fish (salmon, tuna, etc.)
• Cucumber, julienned
• Avocado slices
• Carrot, julienned
• Soy sauce
• Spicy mayo (optional)

Instructions:

1. Lay the nori sheet on a flat surface, shiny side down.
2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Arrange the fish, cucumber, avocado, and carrot in a line in the center.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce or spicy mayo.
5. Roll tightly like a burrito, folding in the sides as you go.
6. Slice and serve.

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3. Kimchi Jjigae (Korea)

Kimchi jjigae, or kimchi stew, is a classic Korean comfort food made from fermented kimchi, tofu, pork, and vegetables. This dish has gained international popularity for its bold flavors and health benefits. Kimchi is known for its probiotic qualities, and this stew is perfect for cold weather or when you need something hearty and spicy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups kimchi, chopped
• 200g pork belly, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 block of tofu, cubed
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, sauté the pork belly until browned.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the kimchi, gochujang, and water or broth, then bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add tofu and continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with green onions.

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4. Pad Thai (Thailand)

Pad Thai is Thailand's iconic stir-fried noodle dish that blends savory, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors in every bite. Traditionally made with rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, tofu, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce, Pad Thai has become a beloved dish worldwide, offering a delightful taste of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 200g rice noodles
• 200g shrimp, peeled
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup tofu, cubed
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Crushed peanuts for garnish
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a wok, stir-fry shrimp, tofu, and eggs until cooked.
3. Add the tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar, then stir well.
4. Toss in the cooked noodles and mix thoroughly.
5. Serve with lime wedges and garnish with crushed peanuts and cilantro.

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5. Poutine (Canada)

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food that consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich, savory gravy. It originated in Quebec but has become a popular dish across Canada and in various parts of the world. Poutine is an indulgent and satisfying dish that can also be customized with different toppings, from pulled pork to mushrooms.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, cut into fries
• 1 cup cheese curds
• 2 cups beef gravy
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Fry the potato strips until golden and crispy.
2. Heat the beef gravy in a saucepan until warm.
3. Place the fries on a plate, then top with cheese curds.
4. Pour the hot gravy over the fries and cheese curds.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve immediately.

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6. Banh Mi (Vietnam)

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines crispy French baguette with flavorful fillings such as pickled vegetables, cilantro, cucumber, and a variety of meats or tofu. The fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions makes this sandwich a unique and popular street food.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette
• 100g grilled chicken or pork
• Pickled carrots and daikon
• Cucumber slices
• Fresh cilantro
• Mayonnaise

Instructions:

1. Slice the baguette lengthwise, creating a pocket.
2. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the bread.
3. Fill the baguette with grilled meat, pickled vegetables, cucumber, and cilantro.
4. Serve immediately.

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7. Paella (Spain)

Paella is Spain's most famous dish, originating from Valencia. This vibrant rice dish is cooked in a single pan and typically includes seafood, chicken, and vegetables. The key to a perfect paella is using high-quality saffron and a well-seasoned broth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 500g seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
• 200g chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp saffron
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a large pan.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the rice, saffron, and chopped tomatoes.
4. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add the seafood and cook until the rice is tender and the seafood is cooked through.

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8. Moussaka (Greece)

Moussaka is a Greek casserole made of layers of eggplant, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), béchamel sauce, and grated cheese. The dish is baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich and comforting meal that is beloved in Greece and throughout the Mediterranean.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggplants, sliced
• 500g ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 cups béchamel sauce
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground meat with onion and garlic.
2. Layer the eggplant slices in a baking dish, followed by the meat mixture.
3. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
4. Serve hot.

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9. Ceviche (Peru)

Ceviche is a refreshing and tangy dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices, usually lime or lemon. It’s typically accompanied by onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. This dish is particularly popular in Peru and coastal regions of Latin America.

Ingredients:

• 500g firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cubed
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2-3 limes, juiced
• 1 chili pepper, chopped
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Marinate the fish in lime juice for at least 30 minutes.
2. Add the onion, chili, and cilantro to the fish mixture.
3. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or crackers.

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10. Tagine (Morocco)

A tagine is a North African stew named after the earthenware pot in which it’s traditionally cooked. This dish combines meat (often lamb or chicken), vegetables, dried fruits, and spices like cinnamon, cumin, and saffron. The slow-cooking process ensures rich, aromatic flavors.

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken thighs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Brown the chicken in a large pot.
2. Add the onions, carrots, dried apricots, and spices.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and honey, then simmer for 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Serve with couscous.

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11. Tacos al Pastor (Mexico)

Tacos al pastor is a classic Mexican street food dish made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie, similar to shawarma. The pork is typically served with pineapple, onions, cilantro, and salsa on soft corn tortillas. It’s a savory-sweet combination that’s perfect for a casual meal.

Ingredients:

• 500g pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1 pineapple, sliced
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the pork in adobo sauce and let it sit for at least 2 hours.
2. Grill the pork and pineapple until caramelized.
3. Serve the pork and pineapple on corn tortillas, topped with onions and cilantro.

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12. Borscht (Ukraine)

Borscht is a vibrant beet soup that’s popular in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. It's known for its earthy flavor and can be served hot or cold. Traditionally, borscht is made with beets, cabbage, and potatoes, and it’s often served with sour cream and fresh dill.

Ingredients:

• 3 beets, peeled and grated
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 4 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion, carrot, and grated beets in a pot.
2. Add the potato, cabbage, and broth, then simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Season with vinegar, salt, and pepper, then serve with sour cream and fresh dill.

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13. Ramen (Japan)

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup known for its rich broth, tender noodles, and variety of toppings. It’s become a global sensation, with many variations depending on the region, such as shoyu (soy sauce), miso, and tonkotsu (pork bone broth).

Ingredients:

• 200g ramen noodles
• 4 cups chicken or pork broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat the broth with soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Boil the egg until soft-boiled, then peel.
4. Assemble the ramen with noodles, broth, and toppings.

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14. Fesenjan (Iran)

Fesenjan is a Persian stew made with chicken or duck, pomegranate molasses, and ground walnuts. It’s a flavorful and slightly tangy dish that’s often served over rice. This dish combines savory, sweet, and sour flavors, making it an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken thighs
• 1 cup ground walnuts
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the chicken in a pot, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the onion until soft, then add ground walnuts and pomegranate molasses.
3. Pour in the broth and simmer until thickened.
4. Add the chicken back in and cook until tender.
5. Serve with rice.

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15. Feijoada (Brazil)

Feijoada is a hearty Brazilian stew made with black beans, pork, and beef. This dish is traditionally served during festive occasions and is perfect for feeding a crowd. The flavors develop over hours of simmering, and it’s often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups black beans
• 500g pork shoulder
• 500g smoked sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 cups beef broth

Instructions:

1. Soak the black beans overnight.
2. Brown the pork shoulder and sausage in a pot.
3. Add the beans, onion, garlic, and broth, then simmer for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

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These 15 international recipes offer a glimpse into the diverse culinary world, showcasing rich flavors, textures, and traditions. Whether you're looking to recreate traditional dishes or experiment with new twists, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary journey. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and start cooking! Enjoy these delicious meals and bring a taste of the world to your kitchen!