Perhaps the biggest highlight when it comes to travel is indulging in local cuisine. Whether it’s a gourmet spread or indeed, just a humble street delicacy, sampling the local delights is something countless travellers partake in, every single day.
Come away with us as we take you around the world on a journey brimming with taste, that spans all the way from India to Mexico. Just a word of warning, reading this article may just make you extremely hungry indeed. Here are 5 gastronomic marvels from across three continents:
1.) Paella (Spain): This delicious combination of white rice, with shrimp, lobster, cuttlefish or mussels, cooked in an irresistible combination of herbs, oils and spices is a popular dish from Valencia. While many across the world consider Paella to be Spain’s national dish, the locals believe that it’s native to the Valencia region only. Alternatively, it can also be cooked with chicken, rabbit, duck or just vegetables. It is recommended that you try the homemade version during your travels because the restaurant version just does not compare in terms of taste. Every mouthful of paella is guaranteed to be a bite of heaven.
2.) Street Chat (India): Chat is not a dish, but instead, it is a family of tangy delights comprising of sevpuri, golgappas, aloo chat, dahipuri, and ragdapuri. It is something that is consumed across the length and breadth of India, with each place putting its own spin on the preparation. So even if you belong to India, the chat in Delhi may differ considerably from the fare you find in Kolkata. Chats are a versatile range of dishes that can be consumed at all times of the day, in the morning, afternoon, evening or even as an accompaniment for dinner. From street vendors to grocery stores, we urge you to try them all!
3.) Tacos (Mexico): Sure, you can try the mass-produced version in any part of the world, but nothing compares to the authentic version that Mexicans prepare with utmost pride. This particular preparation is a delectable topping of beef chunks rubbed in oil and sea salt, served in a handmade tortilla. And then, based on the chef, it is covered with guacamole, salsa, onions, cilantro and all things delicious. Once you have a taste of the original item in Mexico, we guarantee that everything else will pale.
4.) Pasta (Italy): Pasta is a universally beloved dish and whether you love penne, macaroni, lasagne or even spaghetti, you can find a version in every country. But kinds of pasta are a staple in Italy, their country of origin, and you have to try it there! Whether you are in the mood for a quick and light pasta salad or a full-blown pasta dinner, it is an integral part of your Italian experience for sure. Again, if you can try the home cooked version during your travels, the commercial version found in restaurants simply will fall flat.
5.) Doner Kebab (Turkey): Turkey is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Millions throng to the country every year for the wide variety of sightseeing options. And the good news is that the Turkish know how to cook too! Doner Kebabs are a Turkish delight that is now consumed with much gusto across Europe. Crispy meat is taken from a vertical spit and tossed into a lavash with lettuce, tomato, cabbage and sauce. Have it fresh with a beer and you’re good to go!
As per Mr Abhas Desai, CTO & Co-Founder of Taxidio Travel, “The world is full of good food. There are a lot of emerging online travel planners in the market who help travellers in order to get a better idea of what cuisine every place they visit has to offer and can enjoy the yummylicious food around you”.