18 International Cuisines You Can Easily Incorporate Into Your Routine

Trying international cuisines is a great way to bring variety to your meals. Different cultures offer a wide range of flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods that can refresh your daily routine. These dishes are often simple to make and packed with rich flavors. You do not have to be an expert chef to enjoy delicious meals from around the world. By introducing a few new ingredients, you can enjoy authentic tastes at home. Ready to start adding some international flair to your cooking?

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Mexican Tacos

Tacos are a well-loved dish that originated in Mexico, offering a combination of flavorful fillings wrapped in soft or crispy tortillas. Typically enjoyed during lunch or dinner, tacos are versatile and can be filled with a variety of meats or vegetables. Tacos are often topped with fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime, and salsa for extra flavor. This dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick meal.

For tacos, you will need tortillas, seasoned meat or beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, and lime. You can also add avocado or sour cream for extra richness. Ground beef, chicken, or even fish are popular protein choices, while vegetables like bell peppers and onions are common fillings. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime complete the dish.

To make tacos, warm the tortillas and fill them with your chosen filling. Add toppings such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa. Squeeze a bit of lime over the top and enjoy. You can customize the toppings and fillings to suit your taste.

Italian Pasta Carbonara

Pasta carbonara is an Italian classic that originates from Rome, known for its creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. It is best served for lunch or dinner, offering a rich and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy sauce and crispy pancetta makes carbonara a comforting dish that is easy to make. It is a great way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors at home.

The ingredients for carbonara include spaghetti or another type of pasta, eggs, parmesan cheese, pancetta, garlic, black pepper, and olive oil. You can also add a bit of cream to make the sauce extra creamy, though it is not part of the traditional recipe. Fresh parsley can be used for garnish. The dish is quick, and the ingredients are simple but flavorful.

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the instructions. In a pan, cook the pancetta until it becomes crispy. Mix the eggs and cheese together in a bowl, then combine everything by tossing the pasta with the pancetta and egg mixture. Add black pepper and parsley, and serve immediately.

Japanese Sushi

Sushi is a Japanese dish that has gained global popularity, consisting of vinegared rice paired with raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. This dish is ideal for lunch or dinner, often served in small portions as bite-sized pieces. Sushi is known for its fresh and clean flavors, with each piece providing a burst of taste. It is a great way to try a bit of everything from seaweed-wrapped rolls to sashimi.

For sushi, you will need sushi rice, nori (seaweed sheets), fresh fish such as salmon or tuna, cucumber, avocado, and soy sauce. Other common ingredients include wasabi and pickled ginger for extra flavor. Rice vinegar, sugar, and salt are used to season the sushi rice, making it sticky and flavorful. A bamboo mat can help roll the sushi tightly.

Cook the sushi rice and season it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, spread the rice evenly, and add your fillings, such as fish, cucumber, or avocado. Roll the sushi tightly and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Indian Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Chole, or chickpea curry, is a popular dish in India that is both hearty and flavorful. It is often served for lunch or dinner and pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread such as naan. The chickpeas are cooked in a rich and aromatic curry sauce made with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This dish is filling, plant-based, and full of flavor.

You will need canned or dried chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Fresh cilantro can be used as a garnish. For a richer flavor, you can add coconut milk or yogurt. Serve the curry with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Start by cooking the chickpeas in a pot until tender. In a pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger, then add the spices and cook until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens. Combine with the chickpeas and cook until the flavors meld together, then serve with rice or naan.

Greek Salad

Greek salad, or Horiatiki, is a refreshing Mediterranean dish made with fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil dressing. It is typically enjoyed as a side dish, but can also serve as a light lunch or dinner. The combination of crisp vegetables and creamy feta makes it a popular choice for a healthy meal. This salad is full of vitamins and offers a refreshing taste.

For the salad, you will need tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and olive oil. Dried oregano and lemon juice add a Mediterranean touch to the dressing. You can also add bell peppers or capers for extra flavor. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed on its own or with pita bread.

Combine all the vegetables in a large bowl. Top with feta cheese, olives, and oregano. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve immediately.

Middle Eastern Falafel

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often mixed with herbs and spices. Originating from the Middle East, falafel is popular as a street food and served in pita bread or on its own with sauces. It is commonly eaten for lunch or dinner, offering a flavorful, protein-rich meal. The crispy exterior and soft interior make it an enjoyable and satisfying dish.

You will need canned chickpeas, onions, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, and flour. Baking soda is often added to help the falafel rise when frying. You can serve falafel with tahini sauce or hummus. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumber, and tomato are often added as toppings.

Blend the chickpeas with onions, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and spices to form a dough-like mixture. Shape the mixture into balls or patties and fry them in hot oil until golden brown. Serve with pita bread, hummus, and your favorite toppings. You can also bake the falafel for a lighter version.

French Croissants

Croissants are a classic French pastry known for their flaky, buttery texture. Originating in Austria but popularized in France, these pastries are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The dough is layered with butter, then rolled and folded to create a light and airy texture. Croissants are enjoyed fresh and can be filled with chocolate, almond paste, or simply served plain.

For croissants, you will need flour, butter, sugar, yeast, salt, and milk. Some recipes also call for eggs to give the dough a richer texture. You can add fillings like chocolate or almond paste for added flavor. The key to making perfect croissants is in the layering process.

Mix the ingredients to form a dough, then allow it to rest and rise. Roll the dough out and layer it with butter before folding it multiple times to create thin layers. Cut the dough into triangles, roll them up, and bake at a high temperature until golden and crispy. Serve warm for the best taste.

Korean Bibimbap

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean rice dish that is often served with an assortment of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg on top. It is a popular dish for lunch or dinner and is known for its colorful presentation and variety of flavors. The name bibimbap means mixed rice, reflecting the way all the ingredients are combined before eating. It is a healthy and flavorful meal packed with nutrients.

For bibimbap, you will need cooked rice, spinach, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). You can add beef or tofu for protein. Sesame oil, garlic, and soy sauce are used to season the vegetables. The dish can be topped with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Prepare the vegetables by sautéing them with sesame oil and soy sauce. Cook the rice and place it in a bowl, then layer it with the vegetables and your choice of protein. Top the dish with a fried egg and a spoonful of gochujang. Mix everything together before serving for a delicious meal.

Thai Green Curry

Thai green curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with coconut milk, green curry paste, and a variety of vegetables or protein. It originates from Thailand and is commonly enjoyed for lunch or dinner. The rich, creamy curry offers a balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a satisfying and comforting meal. It pairs well with jasmine rice, absorbing the curry sauce beautifully.

For green curry, you will need coconut milk, green curry paste, tofu or chicken, bell peppers, eggplant, and bamboo shoots. Thai basil and lime leaves add authentic flavor. Fish sauce and sugar are often used to balance the spices and sweetness. Chili peppers can be added for an extra kick.

Sauté the curry paste in a pot with a little oil, then add the coconut milk and bring it to a simmer. Add your choice of protein and vegetables, then cook until everything is tender. Season with fish sauce and sugar, and add basil and lime leaves for extra flavor. Serve the curry over jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Vietnamese Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, typically served for breakfast or lunch. It is known for its aromatic broth and rich flavors, with different regional variations across Vietnam. Pho is often enjoyed as a hearty and warming dish, perfect for a satisfying meal. The combination of fresh herbs and tender meat makes it a popular choice.

For pho, you will need rice noodles, beef or chicken, fresh herbs like basil and cilantro, onions, and lime. The broth is made with spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, simmered for hours to develop a rich flavor. Hoisin sauce and sriracha are often added for extra depth. You can also include bean sprouts and jalapeños as toppings.

Prepare the broth by simmering beef bones or chicken with spices, onions, and ginger for several hours. Cook the rice noodles separately and arrange them in a bowl. Pour the hot broth over the noodles, then add your choice of meat and fresh herbs. Serve with hoisin sauce, sriracha, and lime on the side.

Spanish Paella

Paella is a famous Spanish dish that originates from the region of Valencia. It is typically made with a variety of seafood, chicken, and vegetables, cooked with rice and saffron for rich, golden color and flavor. Paella is most often served for lunch or dinner and is enjoyed in large family gatherings. The combination of ingredients makes it a filling and flavorful one-pot meal.

For paella, you will need rice, saffron, seafood like shrimp and mussels, chicken, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, peas, and vegetable broth. Olive oil is used to sauté the ingredients, and paprika adds an extra kick to the flavor. Lemon wedges can be served on the side to bring a refreshing taste to the dish. Paella is often cooked in a wide, shallow pan to ensure even cooking.

Start by cooking the chicken and seafood in olive oil in a large pan. Add the vegetables, then stir in the rice, saffron, and vegetable broth. Let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy.

Chinese Dumplings

Chinese dumplings are a traditional dish commonly eaten in China, especially during festivals and celebrations. They can be filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, or tofu, making them a versatile meal. Dumplings are best served for lunch or dinner and are often enjoyed with a dipping sauce. The dough is thin, and the fillings are flavorful, offering a satisfying bite.

You will need dumpling wrappers, ground pork or tofu, cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. You can also add mushrooms or shrimp for additional flavor. A dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes is a common accompaniment. Dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, depending on your preference.

To make the dumplings, mix the filling ingredients in a bowl. Place a spoonful of the mixture in the center of each wrapper and fold the edges to seal. Cook the dumplings by steaming, boiling, or pan-frying them. Serve with dipping sauce and enjoy.

Moroccan Tagine

Tagine is a traditional Moroccan stew, slow-cooked in a conical clay pot of the same name. It is typically made with lamb, chicken, or vegetables, and often includes dried fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric. Tagine is best served for dinner and is enjoyed with couscous or flatbread. The combination of spices and ingredients creates a dish full of rich, complex flavors.

For tagine, you will need chicken or lamb, dried apricots or raisins, carrots, onions, garlic, and a mix of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric. Olive oil and vegetable broth are used to create the base. You can also add almonds or olives for extra texture and flavor. Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges are often served as garnish.

Start by browning the meat in olive oil and then adding the onions and garlic. Stir in the spices, followed by the vegetables and dried fruits. Pour in the broth and simmer until everything is tender. Serve the tagine with couscous or flatbread.

Turkish Kebabs

Kebabs are a popular dish in Turkish cuisine, made from marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef, skewered and grilled. These savory meat skewers are often enjoyed with flatbread, rice, or vegetables. Kebabs are typically served for lunch or dinner and are a great option for grilling season. The marinated meat is tender and flavorful, making kebabs a crowd-pleasing dish.

For kebabs, you will need your choice of meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), garlic, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, and salt. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes to grill alongside the meat. Fresh parsley and yogurt are often used as garnishes. The marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with flavor.

Marinate the meat with garlic, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for several hours. Thread the meat and vegetables onto skewers. Grill the kebabs until the meat is cooked through and tender, then serve with flatbread or rice.

Lebanese Hummus

Hummus is a well-known dish in Lebanese cuisine, made from blended chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It is typically served as a snack or appetizer and is enjoyed with pita bread or vegetables. The creamy, savory flavor of hummus makes it a popular choice for healthy eating. This dish can be enjoyed during breakfast, lunch, or as a light dinner.

For hummus, you will need canned chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. You can also add cumin or paprika for additional flavor. Fresh parsley is often used as a garnish. Hummus is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious option.

Start by blending the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor. Add olive oil and water to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Season with salt, cumin, or paprika. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Brazilian Feijoada

Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian stew made with black beans, pork, and sausage. It is a rich and hearty dish, typically served for lunch or dinner, and is considered the national dish of Brazil. Feijoada is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and satisfying meal. It is commonly enjoyed during festivals or family gatherings.

For feijoada, you will need black beans, pork shoulder, sausage, bacon, garlic, onions, and bay leaves. You can also add tomatoes and spices like cumin and paprika for extra flavor. The dish is often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. The beans are slow-cooked with the meats to develop a rich, flavorful broth.

Begin by cooking the black beans in water until tender. In a separate pan, cook the pork and sausage, then add the garlic, onions, and spices. Combine everything in one pot, add the beans, and simmer until the flavors meld. Serve with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a famous Thai stir-fried noodle dish that combines sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. This dish is commonly enjoyed for lunch or dinner and is often made with shrimp, chicken, or tofu. It is a quick and easy meal that offers a balance of textures with crispy peanuts and tender noodles. The rich sauce adds depth to the dish, making it both flavorful and satisfying.

For Pad Thai, you will need rice noodles, shrimp or tofu, eggs, peanuts, bean sprouts, lime, and fish sauce. Tamarind paste, garlic, and chili flakes are used for the sauce. You can also add cilantro and green onions for garnish. Pad Thai is typically served with a lime wedge and extra peanuts on top.

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Stir-fry the protein (shrimp or tofu) with garlic and tamarind paste. Add the noodles and sauce ingredients, then toss everything together. Top with peanuts, bean sprouts, lime, and cilantro before serving.

Egyptian Koshari

Koshari is a hearty and filling dish that is often considered Egypt’s national dish. It consists of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and fried onions. Koshari is typically served for lunch or dinner and is both satisfying and budget-friendly. It is a great option for plant-based meals, offering a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.

For koshari, you will need rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, onions, garlic, tomato paste, cumin, and vinegar. You can also add a bit of chili powder for heat. Fried onions are used as a garnish, adding crunch and flavor to the dish. The sauce is made from tomatoes, garlic, and vinegar, giving it a tangy kick.

Cook the rice, lentils, and pasta separately. In a pan, sauté garlic and tomato paste to make the sauce, then simmer. Combine all the ingredients, then top with fried onions. Serve with extra hot sauce or vinegar for added flavor.

Adding international cuisines to your meal plan can open up a world of new tastes and experiences. These recipes are perfect for anyone looking to explore different cultures through food while enjoying something fresh and exciting. Start experimenting with these global flavors and bring a new dimension to your everyday meals.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.