Food glorious food! Being a chef is about more than just donning a stylish uniform from www.chefworks.com or yelling at your subordinates in the kitchen. It is about being able to cook dishes from around the world. Many chefs travel the world in search of culinary inspiration and the opportunity to sample cuisine from different countries and cultures. While every country boasts its own array of top class cuisine and decadent delicacies, some continue to raise the bar in terms of gourmet cuisine. Whether it’s street food from Thailand or sophisticated French dining, here we take a look at the most popular and delicious cuisine from around the world.
United Kingdom : From bangers and mash to fish and chips, Sunday roast or steak and kidney pie, cuisine in the UK is in a league of its own. Ask any Brit, and they will tell you that cuisine from the UK is the best there is. While different dishes vary between regions, UK dishes are generally based on beef, pork, fish, chicken, and lamb served with a side of starch or vegetables. Some of the country’s most famous dishes are, aside from fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, Yorkshire pudding, toad in the hole, bubble and squeak, and the very posh scones and tea.
China : Chinese food is probably one of the most popular cuisines in the world, and with good reason. The Chinese culture has truly penetrated every corner of the globe, most notably in New York City where you will find a Chinese food restaurant or takeaway on almost every corner. That being said, a lot of new ingredients and styles have been introduced to Chinese cuisine, most of which changes depending on the region. Dishes like Chow Mein, fried rice, Lo Mein, and roasted duck have always been favourites, with each region offering its own spin on these popular meals, and continue to be in high demand.
Thailand : In addition to being one of the most popular and affordable holiday destinations, Thailand is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine. Thai cuisine is certainly one of the most talked about and has been replicated around the world. Visit almost any country and you will likely find an ‘authentic’ Thai restaurant close by. What makes Thai cuisine so delicious is that it places a lot of importance on balancing all of the ingredients, giving off light, aromatic and spicy flavours to suit all palates. Fish sauce is a staple ingredient in Thai food, with Pad Thai, Kao Phad, and Tom Yam Goong being popular options.
USA : Hot dogs, corn dogs, barbeque, apple pie and fried chicken. These are just some of the delicacies that the USA is known for. The cuisine of the United States has certainly developed over the years and consists of different versions and inspiration from other countries. While the USA has some of the most diverse range of international restaurants in the world, there are certain foods like hamburgers and French fries that will remain quintessentially American.
India : Visiting India is a feast for the senses, most notably the taste buds. Indian cuisine have made its mark internationally with many Indian restaurants popping up around the world. Whether you like your meals aromatic, saucy, sweet, creamy or just plain spicy, nothing beats Indian cuisine. Dishes like butter chicken, kulfi, Rogan josh, samosas and chicken tikka have universal appeal, while those looking for that classic spicy flavour will also be spoilt for choice.
Mexico : Mexican food is one of the most celebrated cuisines in the world as it combines classic flavours with spice, meat, veggies, and, most importantly, so much cheese. That being said, staple ingredients in Mexican food is actually bell peppers, corn, squash, and tomatoes, with cheese being only one component of the overall meal. Some of the most famous Mexican dishes include tacos, tortillas, enchiladas, and nachos.
France : France is known for many things, with its sophisticated and delicious cuisine being one of them. French cuisine is famous around the world with every so-called ‘foodie’ proclaiming their love of French pastries, truffles, shallots, crepes and crème brûlée. French food is definitely one of the most inspired cuisines in the world.
Italian : Yes, Italy is the place to be when it comes to delicious cuisine. The Italians are so famous for their cuisine because of the rich, decadent flavour of many of its dishes. Pizza and pasta are not only the most popular but also most sought-after dishes in the world. Other prominent Italian dishes include ravioli, bruschetta, risotto and panna cotta, while the country is also famous for its cheese, bread, and wine.