The Spruce / Christine MaStreet food is an integral part of culinary culture around the globe, offering quick, flavorful, and often unique dishes that reflect local traditions and ingredients. While American street food tends to center around hot dogs and pretzels, many delicious options remain undiscovered. Exploring street food from around the world opens the door to a myriad of flavors and culinary traditions. Each of these dishes offers a glimpse into the culture and history of its region, showcasing the creativity and resourcefulness of street vendors. Whether you’re traveling abroad or looking to try something new at home, these street foods are sure to delight your taste buds! Here’s a look at 10 street foods from around the world that Americans might not know about.
Banh Mi (Vietnam)
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines a French baguette with a variety of fillings, typically including pork, pate, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy chili sauce.
Why It’s Unique:
The fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors showcases the country’s colonial history. The crispy baguette and the fresh, vibrant ingredients create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a must-try for any food lover.
The Spruce / Christine Ma
Pani Puri (India)
Pani Puri consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a mixture of spiced water, tamarind chutney, and a combination of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices.
Why It’s Unique:
This popular snack is known for its burst of flavors and textures. The challenge lies in eating them in one bite, making it a fun and interactive culinary experience. The spicy, tangy water adds an exhilarating kick.
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Arepas (Venezuela and Colombia)
Arepas are cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried. They are often filled or topped with various ingredients like cheese, meats, or avocado.
Why It’s Unique:
Versatile and gluten-free, arepas can be eaten any time of day and are highly customizable. Their simplicity and adaptability make them a beloved staple in both Venezuelan and Colombian cuisines.
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Kebap (Turkey)
Kebap refers to a variety of grilled meat dishes, typically made from lamb, beef, or chicken, and served with flatbreads, salads, and sauces.
Why It’s Unique:
Turkish kebap is celebrated for its marinated meats cooked over open flames, resulting in a smoky flavor. Each region in Turkey has its own variations, reflecting local ingredients and cooking methods, making it a diverse and flavorful street food option.
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Jianbing (China)
Jianbing is a popular Chinese street food resembling a crepe, filled with egg, scallions, cilantro, and various sauces, often served with crispy wonton or fried dough.
Why It’s Unique:
This savory breakfast dish is quick to prepare and highly customizable, allowing vendors to add a variety of fillings based on regional preferences. Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among locals.
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Simit (Turkey)
Simit is a circular bread covered in sesame seeds, often described as a Turkish bagel. It’s commonly enjoyed with cheese, olives, or jam.
Why It’s Unique:
Simit vendors can be found throughout Turkey, often sold from carts. Its crunchy exterior and soft interior make it a delightful snack or breakfast item, reflecting the simplicity and tradition of Turkish cuisine.
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Dhokla (India)
Dhokla is a savory steamed cake made from fermented chickpea flour, seasoned with mustard seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves.
Why It’s Unique:
This light and fluffy snack is not only delicious but also nutritious and gluten-free. It’s often served with green chutney, making it a popular choice for a quick snack or breakfast in Gujarat and beyond.
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Chivito (Uruguay)
Chivito is a hearty sandwich filled with thinly sliced steak, mozzarella cheese, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and various sauces, typically served on a soft roll.
Why It’s Unique:
Often referred to as the national dish of Uruguay, the chivito reflects the country’s love for meat and robust flavors. Its combination of ingredients makes it a filling and satisfying meal on the go.
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Ceviche (Peru)
Ceviche is a dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, primarily lime, and seasoned with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.
Why It’s Unique:
This refreshing dish showcases the freshness of seafood in coastal regions. The acidity from the lime “cooks” the fish, resulting in a unique texture and vibrant flavors. Ceviche is often served with corn, sweet potatoes, or plantain chips.
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Poutine (Canada)
Poutine is a Canadian dish consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Variations often include additional toppings like pulled pork or green onions.
Why It’s Unique:
Originating in Quebec, poutine has gained popularity across Canada and beyond. The combination of crispy fries, melty cheese, and savory gravy makes it a comfort food that’s rich and indulgent.
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