Savor the world’s diverse cuisine with these must-try regional food specialties

1. Haggis – Scotland

If you ever find yourself in Scotland, don’t let the idea of haggis scare you. This savory dish consists of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with onion, oats, and spices, then boiled in a sheep’s stomach. Best enjoyed with “neeps and tatties” (turnips and potatoes).

2. Poutine – Canada

Forget about counting calories for a moment and indulge in Canada’s beloved poutine. This dish features french fries, cheese curds, and gravy, and is often dressed up with added toppings such as bacon, pulled pork, or even lobster.

3. Jollof Rice – West Africa

A staple in many West African countries, Jollof rice is a spicy blend of rice, tomatoes, peppers, and onions that’s often served with grilled or fried meat.

4. Laksa – Malaysia

This warming noodle soup is typically made with coconut milk and various spices, lemongrass, and chili peppers, and can be served with shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Definitely a must-try for lovers of soup and spiciness.

5. Pad Thai – Thailand

You cannot leave Thailand without sampling the country’s signature Pad Thai dish. Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, peanuts in a sweet and spicy sauce make up this addictively delicious Thai special.

6. Arepas – Colombia and Venezuela

An arepa is a bread made of cornmeal that’s grilled and often served sliced open and filled with meat, cheese, or beans, these popular South American snacks and street foods are as versatile as they are delicious.

7. Sushi – Japan

No list of regional specialties is complete without mentioning sushi. Despite its simplicity, sushi ingredient and preparation are complex and sophisticated than other dishes. Nigiri sushi, Maki sushi, rainbow sushi are some examples to start with.

8. Koshari – Egypt

Koshari is Egypt’s iconic street food dish made of rice, lentils, and pasta, all topped with tomato sauce or spicy salsa, and then layered with crispy fried onions. Delightful to taste buds, this famous vegetarian food easily won over the hearts of many.

9. Empanadas – Argentina

Argentina’s famous savory pastry, the empanada, is a must-try. These turnovers can be made with a wide variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, ham and cheese, vegetables, or even spicy beef red onions and potato filling (empanada de Tucuman).

10. Kebabs – Middle East

There’s no need to endure a tiresome flight to savor some of the Middle East’s most sought-after kebabs. Grilled skewers of succulent meat or vegetables, served simply with some bread and sauces, will always keep you craving for more.

Now that we’ve tempting your taste buds with some regional cuisine inspirations, it’s your turn to step out of your culinary comfort zone and seize it by the flavors. So what are you waiting for? Adventure is just one dish away!