Food is the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together.
- Anonymous
There are countless types of cuisines around the world, but here are the best ones that have left a lingering flavor of their culture.
The world is similar to a Buddha bowl where each section has its own distinct character and taste. Each destination is full of flavors and aromas that are unique to its history and culture.
French cuisine is renowned for its finesse. Perfecting sophisticated techniques and presentation, haute cuisine was developed by the French.
Traditional Thai dishes fragrant the air with Thai herbs and spices. Lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, pandan, and Thai chilies are extensively used to flavor various dishes.
THAI
Among the most common Thai dishes is Khao pad, or "fried rice" made of rice mixed with meat, seafood, and vegetables. Other lip-smacking dishes include Thai red or green curries with fragrant rice, Sticky mango rice, Tom Yum, and Pad Thai.
Clean and healthy eating is the secret to Japanese longevity. Japanese locals savor "kaiseki" which is a meal that contains a number of small portions with unique flavors taken one by one at a time.
JAPANESE
Japanese food focuses on simplicity and harmony. All the dishes are made with fresh ingredients, have healthy oils, and have a good mixture of nutrients which makes them perfect for maintaining a healthy diet.
Probably nowhere else in the world can you find a medley of spices, fresh produce, and cooking techniques as varied as those found in the Indian provinces. Indian curries range from protein-rich lentils to meat and seafood dishes flavored with ingredients such as coconut, coriander, tamarind, and fiery red chilies.
INDIAN
Vegans and vegetarians would have no problem shifting to Indian flavors as there are a variety of delicious options available. However, the cuisine is highly enticing for seafood lovers and non-vegetarians.
Chinese cuisine has become immensely popular throughout the world for its spicy, rich flavors. The cuisine plays with exotic spices and flavors that are often combined to create dishes that have a strong aroma and intense flavor.
CHINESE
Comprising a blend of different flavors, Chinese meals consist of hot piping soups, stir-fried vegetables, blanched noodles, steamed dumplings, and wontons stuffed with vegetables and meat served with spicy broths as dips.
Tuck into burritos, tamales and nachos! Fiercely spicy and savory, Mexican cuisine is loaded with meals made of corn, beans, and rice.
MEXICAN
A simple corn flatbread - Tortillas are fashioned into a myriad of delightful dishes such as enchiladas, tacos and quesadillas. Mexican cuisine uses a lot of spices, avocados, tomatoes, and chilies to add that touch of zing.
The whole world knows Italy for its drool-worthy dish - the pizza! Italian cuisine traditionally features a variety of pastas and simple ingredients like tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, mushrooms, herbs, mozzarella cheese.
ITALIAN
Italian dishes are mostly cooked in olive oil rather than butter, making them healthier options. Herbs such as basil, tarragon, and oregano add flavor, and rich creamy sauces enhance it further. Combine it with some fine wine from the region for the complete dolce vita experience.
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The country that introduced the world to tapas, Spain is passionate about good food. For centuries, Spanish cuisine has used olive oil, garlic, cilantro, potatoes, rice, and seafood in various ways to create delicious flavors and textures.
SPANISH
Spain is a country steeped in dramatic history and cultures have left their mark on its cuisine. The most famous dish in Spain - Paella - has been around for centuries, but you will be surprised to learn that there is no exact recipe for it; there are a variety of versions of it throughout Spain.
The land of falafel and hummus - Lebanon has thrilled the foodies with a variety of dishes accompanied by fresh dips. Lebanese cuisine reflects a range of culinary styles inspired by the Ottoman, Persian, Greek, and Egyptian periods, which together create an exquisite array of epicurean delights.
LEBANESE
Lebanese cuisine offers a myriad of savory tastes such as sfeefa, shawarma, and tabbouleh and it has delicious baklava and meghli to satisfy your sweet tooth, as well. There is nothing better than a sip of anise-infused Arak to accompany your Lebanese meal.
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A country's cuisine tells the story of its culture. Therefore, when you try different cuisines, you take with you a piece of that destination to cherish forever. When you travel to any place in the world, food is one thing that instantly ties you to the locals. Then, the language barrier does not seem to be an issue anymore.