18 Underrated Street Foods from Around the World
Street food has a way of capturing the heart of a culture, offering a delicious taste of local life. While popular dishes like tacos, pizza, and burgers often steal the spotlight, many underrated street foods deserve a closer look. These hidden gems, found in corners of the world, are full of rich flavors, history, and authenticity. From savory snacks to sweet treats, they offer a unique experience that you won’t find in typical restaurant menus. Often served from humble carts or stands, these dishes are affordable, convenient, and packed with taste.
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Arepas (Venezuela/Colombia)
Arepas are versatile cornmeal cakes commonly found in Venezuela and Colombia. They are grilled, fried, or baked and can be filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meats, or vegetables. Arepas can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making them a beloved street food in both countries. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create the perfect balance of texture.
The fillings are what make arepas truly unique. In Venezuela, you will often find them stuffed with shredded beef, black beans, and avocado, while in Colombia, they might be filled with cheese or even scrambled eggs. These hearty and flavorful snacks are satisfying, portable, and perfect for any time of day.
Pani Puri (India)
Pani puri, also known as golgappa, is a popular street food in India. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a spicy, tangy liquid known as pani, along with potatoes, chickpeas, or yogurt. Vendors prepare the dish fresh, adding a personal touch to each serving, making it a refreshing snack on a hot day.
The combination of flavors in pani puri is a delightful explosion of sour, spicy, and savory elements. As the puris are bite-sized, they offer a fun experience, with each one offering a burst of flavor as it quickly dissolves in your mouth. It’s a must-try for those looking to enjoy a true taste of Indian street food culture.
Bánh Mì (Vietnam)
Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that features a crusty baguette filled with a variety of ingredients like grilled pork, chicken, or tofu, along with fresh vegetables like cilantro, cucumber, and pickled carrots. The sandwich combines French and Vietnamese culinary influences, reflecting the country’s history during French colonization.
The balance between the crunchy baguette and the tender fillings makes bánh mì a standout street food. The use of fresh herbs and pickled vegetables provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meats, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. This sandwich has gained global popularity, but it remains an underrated gem in many areas.
Churros (Spain)
Churros are a beloved Spanish treat often enjoyed at street stalls and fairs. These fried dough pastries are dusted with cinnamon sugar and served hot, making them a perfect snack for any time of day. In Spain, churros are typically dipped in thick hot chocolate, providing a rich and comforting experience.
While churros are widely known around the world, they are often underappreciated for their cultural significance in Spain. The crisp, golden exterior and soft, airy interior create a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot chocolate. It’s a simple yet indulgent snack that never goes out of style.
Empanadas (Argentina)
Empanadas are pastry pockets filled with a variety of savory ingredients, including meat, cheese, and vegetables. These pastries are popular street food in Argentina, where they are often enjoyed as a snack or light meal. The dough is typically baked or fried, creating a crispy and flavorful outer layer.
The fillings in empanadas vary widely depending on the region and personal preferences. In Argentina, beef and onions are common, often seasoned with spices like cumin. The warm, hearty filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy exterior, making empanadas a comforting and portable snack for street food lovers.
Takoyaki (Japan)
Takoyaki is a savory Japanese street food made from batter filled with octopus, tempura bits, and green onions. These round, ball-shaped snacks are cooked in a special pan and topped with bonito flakes, sauce, and sometimes seaweed. Takoyaki is a popular snack at festivals and food stalls across Japan.
The crispy exterior and soft, savory interior of takoyaki make it a unique and enjoyable treat. The combination of flavors, from the tender octopus to the rich, umami-filled sauce, creates an unforgettable street food experience. Takoyaki is a great way to explore the bold flavors of Japanese street food culture.
Shawarma (Middle East)
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food made of seasoned meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) that is roasted on a vertical spit and sliced thinly. The meat is typically served in a pita or flatbread, along with vegetables, tahini, or garlic sauce. Shawarma is enjoyed in many countries in the Middle East and beyond, often served as a quick and satisfying meal.
The juicy, tender meat combined with the tangy sauces creates a flavorful explosion in each bite. Shawarma is highly customizable, allowing for endless variations based on personal tastes. This street food is a go-to for anyone looking for a filling, flavorful snack that’s easy to eat on the go.
Poutine (Canada)
Poutine is a Canadian street food consisting of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich brown gravy. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a beloved dish, often enjoyed after a long day or during cold weather. Poutine is comfort food at its finest.
The cheese curds are an essential part of poutine, offering a chewy, fresh texture that contrasts perfectly with the crispy fries. The gravy adds a savory depth to the dish, making each bite indulgent and satisfying. While it may seem simple, poutine is a filling and hearty street food that captures the essence of Canadian comfort food.
Samosas (India)
Samosas are deep-fried pastry pockets filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are a common street food in India and are enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The crispy, golden exterior and savory filling make samosas a crowd favorite.
The spices used in samosas, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, provide a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the soft, spiced filling. Samosas are often served with chutney, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. These small, handheld snacks are perfect for satisfying your hunger while exploring the vibrant streets of India.
Kebab (Turkey)
Kebabs are a staple in Turkish street food culture, featuring skewered and grilled meat, typically lamb or chicken, that is seasoned with herbs and spices. The meat is often served with flatbread, rice, or vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Kebabs are a favorite on the streets of Turkey and in many other Middle Eastern countries.
The tender, juicy meat is charred to perfection on the grill, allowing the natural flavors to shine. The accompanying bread and fresh vegetables provide a refreshing balance to the rich, smoky meat. Kebabs are a simple yet flavorful street food, ideal for those looking for a satisfying and savory meal on the go.
Corn on the Cob (Mexico)
In Mexico, corn on the cob, known as “elote,” is a popular street food that’s often grilled and coated in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It’s a perfect snack for summer or any time you’re in the mood for a savory treat. Vendors can be found on nearly every street corner selling this flavorful and satisfying snack.
The combination of flavors—creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, salty cheese, and spicy chili—makes elote a unique and delightful experience. Grilled to perfection, the corn is smoky and sweet, providing the ideal base for these bold toppings. Elote is a simple yet beloved street food, embodying the flavors of Mexico.
Bhel Puri (India)
Bhel puri is a popular Indian snack made from puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind chutney. It’s often topped with crispy sev (fried noodles) and fresh cilantro, making it a crunchy, savory snack. Bhel puri vendors can be found on street corners in many parts of India, offering a quick and flavorful snack to passersby.
The balance of flavors and textures in bhel puri makes it a unique and satisfying snack. The tamarind chutney provides a tangy sweetness, while the puffed rice gives the dish a light, crunchy texture. This popular snack is perfect for those looking for something quick, flavorful, and refreshing.
Croquettes (Netherlands)
Croquettes are deep-fried snacks made from a thick, creamy filling that is coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown. In the Netherlands, they are often filled with beef, chicken, or mashed potatoes. They are a popular street food, typically served with mustard for dipping.
The crispy exterior of the croquette contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior, making each bite satisfying. They are small, handheld, and perfect for a quick snack on the go. Croquettes are a comfort food staple in Dutch street food culture and are loved by locals and visitors alike.
Poffertjes (Netherlands)
Poffertjes are tiny, fluffy pancakes that are often served with butter and powdered sugar. These miniature Dutch pancakes are made with yeast, which gives them a light, airy texture. Vendors often prepare them fresh at street stalls, making them a warm and comforting treat.
The sweetness of the powdered sugar paired with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the poffertjes makes them a crowd favorite. Often served in a small stack, they are perfect for a quick, indulgent snack. Poffertjes are a great way to enjoy the lighter side of Dutch street food.
Salteñas (Bolivia)
Salteñas are a type of Bolivian empanada filled with a juicy stew of meat, potatoes, peas, and spices. Unlike other empanadas, salteñas have a sweet, slightly sticky dough that encases the filling, which is cooked with a thick, flavorful broth. These hand-held snacks are commonly enjoyed as breakfast or lunch.
The combination of sweet dough and savory filling creates a delicious contrast. The broth inside the salteña makes each bite juicy and satisfying, offering a hearty meal in a compact form. Salteñas are a delicious way to explore the flavors of Bolivia.
Frites (Belgium)
Belgian frites are a type of thick-cut fries that are fried twice to achieve a perfect balance of crispiness and fluffiness. Served with a variety of sauces, including mayonnaise, ketchup, or a rich, tangy curry sauce, frites are a popular snack on the streets of Belgium.
The thick-cut fries are satisfying, providing a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the variety of dipping sauces. Often sold from street-side stands, they are a staple for anyone seeking a simple, flavorful, and filling snack. Frites are an iconic part of Belgian street food culture.
Tacos al Pastor (Mexico)
Tacos al pastor are a type of Mexican taco made with marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. The pork is typically flavored with a combination of spices, pineapple, and chili peppers, giving it a sweet and savory taste. Tacos al pastor are often served with cilantro, onions, and salsa.
The combination of smoky, tender meat with the sweet and tangy pineapple makes these tacos truly special. The toppings provide freshness and a touch of heat, creating a balance of flavors that makes each bite satisfying. Tacos al pastor are a must-try for anyone visiting Mexico or looking for an authentic taco experience.
Frikandel (Netherlands/Belgium)
Frikandel is a deep-fried minced meat snack that is popular in the Netherlands and Belgium. It is typically served with a variety of sauces, including mayonnaise or a tangy curry sauce. This simple yet hearty snack is often enjoyed as a quick meal on the go.
The exterior of the frikandel is crispy, while the interior is tender and savory, making it a satisfying treat. It is a great option for anyone seeking a quick and flavorful snack. This dish is a well-loved part of street food culture in both Belgium and the Netherlands.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.