When traveling one of my favorite things to do is try all the different unique dishes enjoyed by different cultures across the globe. In my opinion, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in a new culture than enjoying the local cuisine– it usually provides a real insider look at the values, customs, traditions, and history of where you are.
From well-known international classics like pizza and sushi to lesser-known, less popular delicacies such as insects and “jellied moose nose” (Canada 😱), most countries are proud of their culinary offerings and eager to share them with visitors.
Here are 6 must-try delicacies around the world to add to your culinary bucket list!
1. Paella from Valencia, Spain
We’ll start with a fairly well-known dish from a coastal city of Spain. It’s one of my favorites, so I just had to include it!
This hearty and satisfying rice dish has its origins in the Valencia region and is, undoubtedly, a must-try cuisine while traveling in Spain. It’s a very popular dish among locals and tourists alike. Although internationally, paella has become known to include shellfish and other seafood, the original Valencian version contains ingredients such as:
- Rice
- Saffron
- Rabbit
- Chicken
- Green beans
- “Garrofó” beans
- Peppers and Artichokes
- Tomato
- Rosemary
If you wish to enjoy one of the best paella in Madrid, there are many eateries to choose from provide a better experience than the usual tourist traps advertising “high-quality” Spanish cuisine. At these restaurants, you’ll get the real experience, even outside of Valencia, and even taste the classic crunchy, caramelized bottom and subtle saffron flavor. You can be served this delicacy in many different combinations.
Looking for more Madrid inside guides?
2. Fugu from Japan
While this finger-licking and expensive dish is definitely a must-try while touring Japan, it should only be made by skilled chefs with years of experience. Otherwise, (not to sound dramatic, but seriously) you could end up paralyzed, or even worse. 😱
That’s because the fugu or pufferfish contains a poison that’s more potent than cyanide, and there’s no known cure. Because of this, only licensed restaurants with ultra-skilled chefs are allowed to serve this meal which is considered to be the ultimate Japanese delicacy.
Aside from the scary intro, when well-prepared, fugu is a luxurious meal to savor. It’s usually served either grilled, in a stew, or as paper-thin sashimi. If you wish to taste this risky, yet sought-after delicacy, you’ll want to visit Japan between October and March.
3. Fried Tarantulas from Skuon, Cambodia
I can’t believe I’m even writing about this … but here I go.
I haven’t yet made it to Southeast Asia, but I’ve heard of many a curious and unique eating experience from other travelers. This one may top the list for curious!
Although I’m surely skeptical, I’m told you “need” to try out the fried tarantulas sold by market vendors in the town of Skuon. This local delicacy is usually prepared by deep-frying the tarantulas in garlic until the inside becomes soft and the outside, brown and crispy. Apparently, the locals love the taste and also believe that eating fried tarantulas makes you more beautiful!
4. Tacos from Mexico
Another internationally well-known delicacy is the Mexican taco. Here’s the thing- tacos are served around the world, but rarely are they made the traditional Mexican way. I always thought classic tacos ingredients included shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, and a crunchy outer shell. Well, boy was I wrong!
While traveling around Mexico, there are many things you can do to enjoy its rich cultural heritage, but trying real Mexican tacos should be at the top of your list. You shouldn’t have difficulty finding the country’s national food, as it’s the most common street and fast food around! Throw your snazzy Taco Bell expectations out of the window- in Mexico, you’ll find simple round, flat, grilled or baked tortillas topped with different simple fillings, most likely one type of meat or chicken and a sauce.
The fillings of your tortilla taco will differ, depending on the region where it’s prepared.
5. Chlodnik from Poland
While pierogies are undoubtedly my go-to Polish delicacy, it’s no secret that they’re not the healthiest. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative while traveling through Poland, try chlodnik!
Chlodnik is a cold, revitalizing pink beetroot soup containing other health-conscious ingredients such as plain yogurt, radishes, cucumbers, and hard-boiled eggs. Besides being healthy, tasty, and refreshing, this soup is also very appealing to the eye (hello Instagrammers 😜).
Although chlodnik is available year-round, it’s traditionally a “summer soup” and you’ll want to try a fresh batch that’s been prepared within two days to ensure all the flavors combine just right.
6. Pavlova from Australia (or New Zealand)
Australia and New Zealand’s infamous Pavlova has a bit of a controversial past. Many claim Australian rights to the meringue-based dessert, while others are sure it originated in New Zealand. Even further, some food historians claim a different past entirely. Still, if you’re traveling around Australia or New Zealand, you’ll definitely want to give Pavlova a try.
Legend has it that this dessert is named after Anna Pavlova, a Russian ballerina who toured around the area on national holidays back in the 1920s. Pavlova’s merengue base has a crisp crunchy crust and soft, light inside. It is usually topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
You won’t have a hard time finding this tasty dessert and which is offered in cake shops and eateries across New Zealand and Australia.
If you’re anything like me and enjoy eating your way across the globe definitely add these must-try delicacies to your bucket list!
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