Food is an integral part of any culture – and regional cuisine is a great way to experience the flavors and traditions of a specific area. While many of us are familiar with popular dishes like pizza /or sushi, there are plenty of lesser-known regional dishes that are just as delicious and worth trying.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 10 lesser-known regional dishes that you need to try.
1. Pupusas from El Salvador:
Pupusas are a traditional dish from El Salvador made with thick, handmade corn tortillas that are filled with various ingredients like cheese, beans, and meat. They’re typically served with a side of pickled vegetables and tomato-based salsa. Pupusas are a staple food in El Salvador and can be found at markets, street vendors, and restaurants throughout the country.
2. Doro Wat from Ethiopia:
Doro Wat is a spicy Ethiopian stew made with chicken and a blend of spices like berbere, a mix of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other spices. It’s typically served with injera, a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour. Doro Wat is a staple dish in Ethiopian cuisine and is often served during special occasions like weddings or holidays.
3. Fesenjoon from Iran:
Fesenjoon is a traditional Persian dish made with ground walnuts, pomegranate molasses, and chicken or duck. The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes it a unique and flavorful dish. Fesenjoon is often served during special occasions and celebrations in Iran.
4. Ceviche from Peru:
Ceviche is a popular dish from Peru made with raw fish that is marinated in lime juice, onions, chili peppers, and other seasonings. The acidity from the lime juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a unique texture and flavor. Ceviche is often served as an appetizer or a light meal in Peru and can be found at restaurants and street vendors throughout the country.
5. Pierogi from Poland:
Pierogi are a type of dumpling that is popular in Poland and other Eastern European countries. They’re typically filled with ingredients like potato, cheese, or meat and can be boiled, fried, or/ baked. Pierogi are versatile dishes that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a dessert.
6. Banh Xeo from Vietnam:
Banh Xeo is a savory Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. The pancake is filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans. It’s typically served with lettuce, herbs, and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and chili.
7. Dosa from India:
Dosa is a South Indian crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It’s typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, a lentil-based vegetable soup. Dosa can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and there are many variations, including masala dosa and rava dosa.
8. Pastitsio from Greece:
Pastitsio is a layered Greek pasta dish made with macaroni, ground meat, and béchamel sauce. It’s often topped with a layer of cheese and baked until golden brown. Pastitsio is a comfort food in Greek cuisine and is typically served during holidays or special occasions.
9. Bun Cha from Vietnam:
Bun Cha is a Vietnamese dish made with grilled pork patties, vermicelli noodles, and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, garlic, and chili. It’s typically served with lettuce, herbs, and pickled vegetables. Bun Cha is a popular street food in Vietnam and can be found at food stalls and restaurants throughout the country.
10. Acarajé from Brazil:
Acarajé is a popular street food in Brazil, especially in the northeastern state of Bahia. It’s a deep-fried fritter made from black-eyed peas and stuffed with spicy shrimp, veggies, and condiments like hot sauce and salsa.
The Conclusion
Exploring regional cuisine is a great way to experience different flavors and cultures. From pupusas in El Salvador to pierogi in Poland, there are plenty of lesser-known dishes that are worth trying. By stepping out of our culinary comfort zones, we can discover new flavors and expand our palates. So next time you’re traveling or looking for a new dining experience, consider trying one of these five lesser-known regional dishes.