13 Foods to Try in Fall When Traveling Overseas

Fall is the perfect time to explore new flavors while traveling abroad. From savory dishes to sweet treats, the season offers unique culinary experiences that showcase the best of local harvests. Whether you’re enjoying freshly harvested crabs in Korea or savoring roasted chestnuts in Spain, each destination brings its own delicious seasonal offerings. Embrace the fall atmosphere and taste the traditional dishes that define the season in different cultures around the world.

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Korean Blue Crabs and Japchae

In South Korea, the fall season is the perfect time to indulge in blue crabs, a seasonal delicacy prized for its sweet and succulent meat. Known for their delicate texture, these crabs are typically served in a variety of ways, such as in soups or with spicy sauces. The Korean blue crab is harvested from the country’s waters, and during the fall months, its flavor is at its peak, making it a must-try dish for anyone visiting the country. Whether you enjoy it steamed, grilled, or cooked in a flavorful stew, this crab brings an authentic taste of Korean fall cuisine to the table.

Alongside the blue crabs, another popular dish to try during the fall is japchae, a classic Korean noodle dish. Japchae is made with stir-fried glass noodles, mixed vegetables, and typically some type of meat or seafood. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a perfect dish for the fall, as it uses fresh seasonal vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and carrots. The slightly chewy texture of the glass noodles complements the tender crabs, creating a satisfying meal that highlights the flavors of autumn in Korea. Together, these two dishes are a true representation of Korean fall food culture.

Chinese Hairy Crabs

The Chinese hairy crab is one of the most anticipated dishes during the fall in China, particularly around the Mid-Autumn Festival. These crabs are known for their sweet, rich meat and are celebrated for their roe, which has a creamy, almost buttery flavor. The harvest season for hairy crabs typically falls between September and November, making it the perfect time to enjoy this fall delicacy. Locals often enjoy the crabs steamed, sometimes accompanied by a simple ginger dipping sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the crab meat. The soft, tender flesh of the crab and the rich roe make this a highly coveted treat during the fall months.

In Shanghai, the hairy crab has become synonymous with fall feasts, with restaurants offering specialized menus around this time of year. The crab is often paired with Chinese wines or tea to bring out the delicate flavors of the meat. Traditionally, the roe of the female crab is highly prized, and it is often the highlight of a meal. If you’re in China during the fall, it’s almost a rite of passage to try these crabs, and doing so will give you an authentic taste of China’s culinary culture during the harvest season.

Vietnamese Green Rice (Cốm)

In Vietnam, fall marks the harvest of young, tender rice, and one of the best ways to enjoy this fresh crop is through a dish called cốm. This dish is made from glutinous rice that is harvested early and toasted to create a chewy, fragrant treat. The rice is then combined with ingredients such as coconut, sugar, and sesame seeds, offering a delightful blend of sweet and earthy flavors. Cốm is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and is typically eaten with lotus tea, which is served to highlight the delicate flavors of the rice. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the fall harvest, as this dish encapsulates the freshness of the season in every bite.

Cốm is especially popular in Hanoi, where street vendors often sell it in the fall months. The dish is not just a food item but also a cultural symbol of the Vietnamese fall season. It’s often given as a gift during harvest celebrations or served at family gatherings. The soft, chewy texture of the rice, combined with the natural sweetness of the other ingredients, creates a simple yet satisfying treat that is a must-try for anyone visiting Vietnam during the fall months. The delicate flavor and traditional preparation make it a unique and memorable experience for any traveler.

Japanese Shinmai (New Rice), Persimmons, and Roasted Sweet Potatoes

In Japan, fall is a time for harvest, and one of the best ways to experience the season is by sampling shinmai, or new rice. This freshly harvested rice is known for its plump, sticky texture and sweet flavor. It’s a dish that captures the essence of fall in Japan, as the rice is typically served with simple accompaniments like pickles or grilled fish. The texture of the rice is tender, making it a perfect addition to any meal during the cooler fall months. Eating shinmai is considered a way to honor the fall harvest and appreciate the seasonal bounty of Japan’s countryside.

Along with shinmai, fall in Japan is also a time to enjoy persimmons, a fruit that ripens in the cooler months. Persimmons are often eaten fresh, but they can also be used in traditional Japanese desserts like kaki-no-kinton (sweet persimmon paste). Roasted sweet potatoes, another fall favorite, are often sold by street vendors and are a comforting treat to enjoy during chilly evenings. The natural sweetness of these seasonal foods is a perfect match for Japan’s cool, crisp autumn weather. Together, these foods showcase the heart of Japan’s fall offerings and should be on every traveler’s list.

German Pumpkin Soup

In Germany, one of the quintessential fall dishes to try is pumpkin soup, a warming dish that makes the most of the season’s harvest. Fall is the time for pumpkins in Germany, and they are often turned into creamy, flavorful soups that are perfect for the chilly weather. German pumpkin soup is typically made with a variety of pumpkins, such as Hokkaido or butternut, and it is blended with cream, onions, and a mixture of herbs and spices. The smooth, velvety texture of the soup, combined with its slightly sweet and savory flavors, makes it an ideal dish to enjoy while soaking in the autumn atmosphere.

Pumpkin soup is often served with a side of rustic bread and sometimes topped with roasted pumpkin seeds, which add a satisfying crunch to the dish. It is commonly found in German restaurants and homes during the fall months, especially around harvest time. The comforting, hearty nature of this soup makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Sampling a bowl of German pumpkin soup during your travels will not only satisfy your appetite but also give you a taste of the country’s seasonal culinary traditions.

Italian Chestnuts

Fall in Italy brings an abundance of chestnuts, which are roasted and enjoyed as a popular street food during the colder months. The chestnuts are often roasted over an open fire, creating a warm, aromatic snack that is perfect for chilly fall days. The roasted chestnuts have a naturally sweet flavor and a soft, creamy texture that contrasts with the crunchy outer shell. In many parts of Italy, you can find chestnut vendors lining the streets, offering these roasted treats in paper cones to passersby. For many Italians, chestnuts are synonymous with fall, as they have been a part of the country’s food culture for centuries.

In addition to being roasted, chestnuts are also used in a variety of Italian dishes, including soups, stews, and even desserts. One of the most famous ways chestnuts are used is in a dessert called castagnaccio, a dense, rustic cake made from chestnut flour, olive oil, and pine nuts. Chestnuts are also featured in savory dishes like chestnut risotto, which offers a rich, earthy flavor. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal, chestnuts in Italy are a delicious and comforting way to experience the flavors of fall.

French Tartes Tatin

In France, the fall season is synonymous with the sweet, caramelized flavors of tarte Tatin. This upside-down pastry is made with apples that are slowly caramelized in butter and sugar before being baked with a layer of flaky pastry on top. The apples soften during baking, becoming rich and sweet, while the pastry becomes golden and crisp. Tarte Tatin is often served warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for the cooler fall evenings. The combination of sweet apples and buttery pastry makes this dessert a comforting way to experience French fall flavors.

Created in the Loire Valley, tarte Tatin has since become a beloved dessert across France and around the world. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural sweetness of the apples to shine through, while the caramelization adds a rich, complex flavor. As fall marks the apple harvest season, tarte Tatin is a dish that perfectly celebrates the abundance of the season. If you’re traveling in France during the fall, trying this iconic dessert is a must, as it captures the essence of French autumn baking traditions.

Spanish Castañas Asadas

In Spain, fall means it’s time for castañas asadas, or roasted chestnuts. These warm, nutty treats are a popular street food during the fall and winter months, particularly in regions like Catalonia and Madrid. The chestnuts are roasted on open fires, giving them a smoky flavor that complements their natural sweetness. As you walk through the streets, you’ll often see vendors selling these chestnuts, offering them in paper cones to passersby. The experience of eating freshly roasted chestnuts while strolling through Spain’s vibrant fall markets should not be missed.

Beyond being a street snack, chestnuts are also used in a variety of Spanish dishes, including soups and stews. One such dish is castañas con calabaza, a hearty chestnut and pumpkin soup that is perfect for warming up on a crisp fall day. The combination of sweet chestnuts and savory vegetables creates a comforting, wholesome meal that is especially popular during the cooler months. If you are in Spain during the fall, castañas asadas and other chestnut-based dishes are a delicious way to embrace the season’s flavors.

American Pumpkin Pie

In the United States, no fall experience is complete without indulging in a slice of pumpkin pie. This beloved dessert is a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations and fall gatherings across the country. Made from spiced pumpkin filling, often combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, pumpkin pie has a rich, warm flavor that is perfect for the cooler fall months. The pie is typically served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which balances the sweetness of the pumpkin filling. Whether you’re at a family dinner or a local bakery, pumpkin pie is the ultimate fall treat.

The tradition of pumpkin pie dates back to early American settlers, who adapted their recipes to include pumpkins, which were abundant in North America. Today, it remains a beloved symbol of autumn in the U.S., especially around Thanksgiving. The pie’s creamy texture and spiced flavor make it a comforting and nostalgic dessert that many people look forward to all year long. If you’re in the U.S. during the fall, you’ll find pumpkin pie at almost every table, making it an essential part of the country’s fall culinary tradition.

Portuguese Roasted Sardines

In Portugal, fall is the time for roasted sardines, a dish that is often enjoyed during the cooler months. The sardines are typically grilled or roasted over an open flame, giving them a smoky, savory flavor that is enhanced by the use of olive oil and garlic. They are often served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad, making them a hearty and satisfying meal. Sardines are a staple of Portuguese cuisine, and during the fall, they are especially popular at family gatherings and festivals. Their rich, oily texture and intense flavor make them a perfect match for the crisp autumn weather.

In addition to being roasted, sardines in Portugal are also served in a variety of other dishes, such as in stews or on top of rice. The fish’s natural oils and flavors pair wonderfully with simple, fresh ingredients, making it a versatile ingredient in Portuguese fall cooking. Whether enjoyed at a traditional seaside restaurant or at a family meal, roasted sardines are a quintessential part of the Portuguese fall experience. For anyone visiting Portugal during the season, trying this dish is a must to truly experience the flavors of the country’s autumn cuisine.

British Mulled Wine

In the UK, fall is the perfect time to enjoy mulled wine, a warming drink made with red wine, spices, and fruits. This drink is often served during autumn festivals and winter holidays, making it a quintessential fall beverage. The spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, combine with the sweetness of the wine and fruits like oranges or apples to create a rich, comforting drink that is perfect for chilly evenings. Mulled wine is typically served hot, which makes it a great way to stay warm while enjoying the crisp autumn air.

Mulled wine has a long tradition in British culture, and it is commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season as well. However, it is in the fall, especially during harvest festivals, that mulled wine really shines. It’s often served at outdoor markets or pubs, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy its comforting flavors. If you’re in the UK during the fall, sampling a cup of mulled wine is a perfect way to embrace the season’s warmth and coziness.

Greek Bougatsa

In Greece, fall brings the comforting flavors of bougatsa, a sweet or savory pastry that is beloved across the country. Made with layers of crispy filo dough, bougatsa can be filled with a variety of ingredients, but during the fall months, it is often filled with custard or pumpkin. The sweet version, known as bougatsa with custard, is especially popular in northern Greece, where it is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. The flaky, buttery layers of pastry combined with the creamy filling make this dish a perfect fall treat.

In addition to the sweet version, savory bougatsa is also a favorite during the fall months. Savory bougatsa is typically filled with cheese, minced meat, or spinach, and it’s a great option for those looking for a more filling snack. Whether sweet or savory, bougatsa is a comforting pastry that reflects the heartwarming flavors of Greek fall cuisine. Trying this pastry while traveling in Greece is an excellent way to taste the season’s best ingredients, such as pumpkins and squash, as they come into full bloom.

Dutch Stamppot

In the Netherlands, fall is the season for stamppot, a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes and a variety of vegetables. The most common version is stamppot boerenkool, which is made with kale, but other variations include mashed potatoes mixed with carrots, onions, or sauerkraut. The dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for the colder months. It is typically served with a sausage, often a smoked sausage called rookworst, which adds a savory flavor to the meal. Stamppot is a beloved comfort food in the Netherlands, and it’s especially popular during the fall and winter months when people crave something warm and satisfying.

Stamppot is not just about the ingredients but also about the tradition of gathering around the table with family and friends to enjoy a comforting meal. This dish is often prepared in large quantities, making it perfect for family feasts or gatherings. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with the earthy flavors of the vegetables makes stamppot a true reflection of Dutch culinary traditions. If you find yourself in the Netherlands during the fall, be sure to try this rustic, delicious dish.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.