redditFast food is a beloved part of global cuisine, with each country offering unique items that reflect local flavors and culinary traditions. While the U.S. boasts a variety of popular fast-food chains, there are some international items that leave us craving for more. These international fast food items highlight the creativity and diversity of global cuisine. While we may not have these delights readily available in the U.S., with a bit of ingenuity, you can recreate them at home. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, spicy, or sweet, these dishes offer a tantalizing taste of what’s missing from our fast-food landscape. Happy cooking! Here’s a look at 10 mouthwatering fast food items from around the world that we wish were available in the U.S., complete with details and tips for trying to recreate them at home.
McDonald’s McPoutine (Canada)
A Canadian twist on a classic, McPoutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy.
Tip: If you can’t get to Canada, try making your own poutine at home using fries, cheese curds, and a simple gravy recipe.
Why We’re Jealous: This savory comfort food is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a go-to snack or meal.
KFC Zinger Burger (Various Countries)
The Zinger Burger features a spicy chicken fillet, lettuce, and mayonnaise, served on a bun.
Tip: Recreate the Zinger by marinating chicken in spicy seasonings before frying it for an extra kick.
Why We’re Jealous: The Zinger is known for its bold flavors and crunch, perfect for spice lovers.
takingontheworld
Burger King Rodeo Burger (Australia)
This burger includes a flame-grilled beef patty topped with BBQ sauce, onion rings, and cheese.
Tip: Add onion rings and your favorite BBQ sauce to a homemade burger for a taste of Australia.
Why We’re Jealous: The combination of BBQ and crispy onion rings is a match made in burger heaven.
cozymeal
Taco Bell’s Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes (Mexico)
A delicious side dish featuring crispy potatoes topped with cheese, sour cream, and seasoned beef.
Tip: Make your own version by baking diced potatoes and topping them with cheese, sour cream, and spices.
Why We’re Jealous: These cheesy bites are a perfect addition to any meal or snack.
Dalton Brown
Jollibee’s Chickenjoy (Philippines)
Fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, often served with gravy and rice.
Tip: Try marinating chicken in buttermilk and seasoning it with local spices before frying to replicate this dish at home.
Why We’re Jealous: Chickenjoy is known for its delightful crunch and flavor, making it a national favorite.
Good News Pilipinas
Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken (UK & South Africa)
Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce, served with sides like rice or fries.
Tip: You can make peri-peri sauce at home with chilies, lemon juice, garlic, and spices to recreate the experience.
Why We’re Jealous: The unique flavor of peri-peri sauce, made from African bird’s eye chilies, makes this chicken unforgettable.
johnnyafrica
Subway’s Meatball Marinara (UK)
A hearty sandwich featuring meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese.
Tip: Make your own meatball sub using your favorite meatball recipe, marinara sauce, and a crusty roll.
Why We’re Jealous: This comforting sub is perfect for a quick meal and offers a delicious flavor profile.
bluehorizon
Pizza Hut’s Stuffed Crust Pizza (Australia)
While stuffed crust is available in the U.S., Australia offers unique flavors like BBQ chicken and garlic prawn.
Tip: Experiment with different toppings at home to create your own stuffed crust pizza.
Why We’re Jealous: These inventive toppings take pizza to another level of deliciousness.
Tim Hortons’ BeaverTails (Canada)
A sweet pastry shaped like a beaver’s tail, topped with various sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, chocolate, and fruits.
Tip: Try making your own by frying dough and experimenting with different toppings.
Why We’re Jealous: These delicious treats are a perfect blend of crispy and chewy with sweet toppings.
entabe
Starbucks’ Matcha Latte (Japan)
While Starbucks exists in the U.S., Japan offers unique variations like the matcha latte, made with high-quality green tea.
Tip: You can recreate this at home using matcha powder, steamed milk, and sweetener to taste.
Why We’re Jealous: This vibrant drink is not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for matcha lovers.
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