A list of must-try international street foods and where to find them

A list of must-try international street foods and where to find them

Looking to add some excitement to your taste buds? Look no further than the world of international street food! From savory snacks to sweet desserts, street food vendors around the world offer a delicious and convenient way to sample a country's cuisine and culture.

In this article, we'll explore some of the must-try international street foods and where to find them. But be warned: reading this article may induce mouth-watering cravings and a sudden desire to book a flight to your favorite food destination!

Whether you're in the mood for some fiery Mexican tacos al pastor or sweet Japanese taiyaki, we've got you covered. We'll also take a tour of Thailand's famous street food scene and explore the diverse flavors of India's chaat and vada pav. And don't forget to save some room for dessert, as we sample the rich flavors of Turkish baklava and the sweet simplicity of Vietnamese banh mi.

So grab your appetite and get ready for a global culinary adventure! This article will not only introduce you to some new and exciting flavors, but also provide tips on where to find the best street food in each country. And who knows, you may even discover a new favorite dish that you'll crave for years to come.

 

Mexico

Mexico is a vibrant and colorful country that is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. Mexican cuisine is full of bold flavors and spices, and its street food scene is no exception. When it comes to must-try international street foods, Mexico has a lot to offer.

First up is the iconic taco al pastor, a staple of Mexican street food. This dish features marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, similar to the Middle Eastern shawarma. The pork is sliced off the spit and served on a soft tortilla with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The combination of tender meat and tangy toppings makes this dish a must-try for any foodie visiting Mexico.

Another popular street food in Mexico is elote, or grilled corn on the cob. The corn is typically boiled or grilled, then slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It's a delicious and messy treat that perfectly embodies the bold and zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine.

And no trip to Mexico would be complete without trying some churros, a sweet and crispy pastry that is perfect for snacking on-the-go. Churros are deep-fried dough that is then rolled in cinnamon sugar and served with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping. They're crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and impossible to resist.

If you're looking to try some of these delicious Mexican street foods, there are plenty of locations where you can find them. For example, Mexico City's La Merced market is a popular spot for street food vendors, while the Tijuana street food scene is known for its creative and innovative dishes. But no matter where you go in Mexico, you're sure to find plenty of delicious and satisfying street food options.

 

Japan

Japan is a food lover's paradise, with its unique and diverse culinary traditions. Japanese street food, known as yatai, is a must-try for any foodie visiting the country. From savory to sweet, Japanese street food has something for everyone.

One popular Japanese street food is taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste. Taiyaki is often served hot off the grill and is a popular snack in Tokyo's Nakamise shopping street. It's a delicious and adorable treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Another popular street food in Japan is yakitori, which is skewered and grilled chicken. Yakitori is typically served with a salty and sweet soy sauce glaze and can be found at street stalls throughout Japan. It's a simple but flavorful dish that is perfect for snacking on while exploring the vibrant streets of Japan.

For a more substantial meal, try okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and seafood. The ingredients are mixed together and cooked on a hot plate, then topped with a variety of sauces and condiments. Okonomiyaki is a popular street food in Osaka, where it is often referred to as "Osaka soul food".

If you're looking for something a bit more exotic, try takoyaki, which is a ball-shaped snack made with octopus pieces and batter. Takoyaki is typically served with a sweet and savory sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. It's a popular snack throughout Japan and can be found at many street food vendors.

If you're interested in trying some of Japan's famous street food, head to popular street food districts like Osaka's Dotonbori or Tokyo's Harajuku. These areas are packed with street food vendors offering a variety of delicious and unique dishes.

 

Thailand

Thailand is known for its bold and spicy flavors, making it a must-visit destination for any foodie. Thai street food is a staple of the country's cuisine, and can be found on every corner of the bustling streets.

One popular Thai street food is pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish made with tofu, eggs, and a variety of other ingredients such as shrimp, chicken, or vegetables. Pad Thai is often served with peanuts, chili flakes, and lime wedges on the side, making it a delicious and customizable dish.

Another popular Thai street food is mango sticky rice, a sweet and creamy dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and fresh mango. Mango sticky rice is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day, and can be found at many street food stalls and markets throughout Thailand.

If you're feeling adventurous, try som tam, a spicy and tangy salad made with green papaya, chili, and lime juice. Som tam is a popular street food in Thailand and can be found at many local markets and street vendors. It's a flavorful and refreshing dish that is perfect for the hot and humid weather of Thailand.

For a more filling meal, try khao man gai, a chicken and rice dish that is popular in Thailand. Khao man gai is made with poached chicken, rice cooked in chicken broth, and a variety of sauces and spices. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

If you're interested in trying some of Thailand's famous street food, head to popular street food areas like Bangkok's Chinatown or Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar. These areas are filled with street food vendors offering a variety of delicious and unique dishes at affordable prices.

 

India 

India is a land of spices, flavors, and aromas, and its street food is no exception. Indian street food is a vibrant and colorful representation of the country's diverse culture and cuisine.

One popular Indian street food is chaat, a savory snack that is made with a variety of ingredients such as fried dough, potatoes, chickpeas, and chutneys. Chaat is often served with a tangy and spicy tamarind sauce, making it a flavorful and delicious treat.

Another popular Indian street food is vada pav, a vegetarian sandwich made with a fried potato patty, spices, and chutney, all sandwiched between two slices of bread. Vada pav is a popular street food in Mumbai and can be found at many street vendors and food stalls throughout the city.

If you're looking for something sweet, try jalebi, a deep-fried dessert made with wheat flour and sugar syrup. Jalebi is often served warm and is a popular street food in North India, especially during festivals and celebrations.

For a more filling meal, try pav bhaji, a vegetarian dish made with a spicy vegetable curry served with buttered bread. Pav bhaji is a popular street food in Mumbai and is often enjoyed as a hearty and satisfying meal.

If you're interested in trying some of India's famous street food, head to popular street food areas like Delhi's Chandni Chowk or Mumbai's Juhu Beach. These areas are filled with street food vendors offering a variety of delicious and unique dishes at affordable prices. Just be sure to bring your appetite!

 

Turkey

Turkey is a country with a rich culinary history, and its street food offerings are no exception. Turkish street food is a perfect blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian flavors and is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

One popular street food in Turkey is simit, a type of bread that is similar to a sesame seed bagel. Simit is often sold by street vendors and can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings such as cheese, jam, or Nutella.

Another must-try Turkish street food is doner kebab, a dish made with marinated meat that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie and then shaved off and served in a pita or wrap with vegetables and sauces. Doner kebab is a staple in Turkish cuisine and can be found on almost every street corner.

If you're looking for something sweet, try baklava, a dessert made with layers of phyllo pastry and filled with nuts and syrup. Baklava is a popular street food in Turkey and can be found at many pastry shops and street vendors throughout the country.

Another Turkish street food to try is borek, a savory pastry made with thin layers of dough that are filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Borek is a popular street food in Turkey and can be found at many bakeries and street vendors.

If you're interested in trying some of Turkey's famous street food, head to Istanbul's bustling street markets like the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Market. These markets are filled with street food vendors offering a variety of delicious and unique dishes at affordable prices. Just be sure to come hungry!

 

Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and unique combinations of herbs and spices. Vietnamese street food is no exception, and there are plenty of delicious options to try while exploring the country's bustling streets.

One of the most popular Vietnamese street foods is pho, a fragrant and hearty noodle soup made with a savory beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and tender slices of meat. Pho can be found at street stalls throughout Vietnam, and it's a staple dish for locals and tourists alike.

Another must-try Vietnamese street food is banh mi, a delicious sandwich that is made with a crusty baguette and filled with a variety of savory ingredients like pate, grilled pork, and pickled vegetables. Banh mi is the perfect grab-and-go snack and can be found at many street food vendors and cafes throughout the country.

If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, be sure to try banh xeo, a crispy and savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Banh xeo is a popular street food in southern Vietnam and is often served with fresh herbs and a spicy dipping sauce.

Another delicious Vietnamese street food to try is bun cha, a grilled pork and noodle dish that is served with a side of fresh herbs and vegetables. Bun cha is a popular lunchtime dish in Vietnam and is often enjoyed at street-side restaurants and food stalls.

If you're interested in trying some of Vietnam's famous street food, head to the cities of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, which are known for their bustling street markets and food stalls. Just be prepared to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and flavors of Vietnamese street food culture.

 

United States

The United States is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and its street food scene reflects this diversity. From hot dogs to tacos, there are a wide variety of delicious street foods to try in the US.

One classic American street food is the hot dog, a grilled sausage served on a bun and topped with a variety of condiments like mustard, ketchup, and onions. Hot dogs can be found at street vendors and food trucks across the country, but they are especially popular in cities like New York and Chicago.

Another iconic American street food is the Philly cheesesteak, a sandwich made with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese, served on a soft roll. The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia, but it can now be found at street vendors and restaurants across the country.

Tacos are also a popular street food in the US, with a wide variety of regional styles and flavors. In the Southwest, for example, you can find delicious tacos made with carne asada and fresh cilantro, while in California, fish tacos are a popular choice, made with crispy fried fish and tangy slaw.

If you're looking for something sweet, be sure to try a classic American dessert like a funnel cake, a deep-fried dough pastry that is dusted with powdered sugar. Funnel cakes can be found at state fairs and street festivals across the country.

Overall, the United States has a vibrant and diverse street food scene that is well worth exploring. From classic American favorites to international flavors, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

 

South Korea

South Korea is a food lover's paradise, and its street food scene is no exception. With a rich culinary tradition that combines Korean and international flavors, there are many delicious and unique street foods to try in this East Asian country.

One popular street food in South Korea is tteokbokki, a spicy rice cake dish that is often served with fish cakes and vegetables in a thick, fiery sauce. It's a staple at street food stalls and markets throughout the country, and is a great option for those who love spicy food.

Another must-try street food in South Korea is hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. The pancake is cooked on a griddle until crispy on the outside, and gooey and sweet on the inside. Hotteok is especially popular during the winter months, when it's served piping hot to warm up chilly hands and bellies.

If you're looking for something savory, be sure to try Korean fried chicken, which is a popular street food in South Korea. The chicken is deep-fried until crispy and golden, and then coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste) and honey. It's a delicious and addictive snack that pairs well with beer.

Another classic Korean street food is jokbal, a dish made from boiled pig's feet that are simmered in a flavorful broth until tender and succulent. The meat is then sliced into bite-sized pieces and served with a variety of side dishes, including pickled vegetables and rice.

Overall, South Korea is a great destination for foodies, and its street food scene is a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. With a wide variety of flavors and dishes to choose from, there's no shortage of delicious and unique street foods to try in South Korea.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, street food is a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture when traveling internationally. From Mexico to South Korea, there are countless delicious and unique street foods to try, each with their own distinct flavors and ingredients.

Sampling international street food is not only a delicious adventure but also an affordable way to experience local culture and cuisine. Whether you're wandering through the bustling streets of Tokyo or exploring the vibrant markets of Bangkok, you're sure to find a wide variety of tasty treats to try.

If you're planning to travel internationally, be sure to add street food to your itinerary. Not only is it a fun and delicious way to experience the local culture, but it's also a great way to meet locals and get a glimpse into their way of life.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring the world, one tasty bite at a time!