Street food is a global phenomenon, offering delicious, authentic, and affordable eats. Here are 20 must-try street foods from around the world that you need to experience at least once in your lifetime.
1. Tacos (Mexico)
Tacos are a quintessential Mexican street food. Soft corn tortillas filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and salsas make for a delicious and versatile meal.
2. Pad Thai (Thailand)
Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that’s a staple of Thai street food. Made with rice noodles, tofu or shrimp, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce, it’s a flavorful delight.
3. Arepas (Venezuela/Colombia)
Arepas are cornmeal cakes that are grilled, baked, or fried and stuffed with a variety of fillings like cheese, meats, and avocado. They are a staple in both Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine.
4. Falafel (Middle East)
Falafel consists of deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. Typically served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce, it’s a vegetarian favorite.
5. Bánh Mì (Vietnam)
Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines French baguette with Vietnamese fillings such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect blend of crunchy, savory, and fresh flavors.
6. Poutine (Canada)
Poutine is a Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat that’s become popular worldwide.
7. Gyros (Greece)
Gyros are made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, usually served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce. This Greek street food is deliciously savory and filling.
8. Churros (Spain)
Churros are deep-fried dough sticks coated in sugar and often served with a thick chocolate dipping sauce. They are a sweet and crispy treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
9. Takoyaki (Japan)
Takoyaki are ball-shaped snacks made from a batter and filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions. Topped with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes, they are a popular Japanese street food.
10. Empanadas (Latin America)
Empanadas are pastry pockets filled with a variety of ingredients like beef, cheese, or chicken. They are fried or baked and enjoyed as a quick and tasty snack throughout Latin America.
11. Samosas (India)
Samosas are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are a popular street food in India, offering a crispy exterior and flavorful filling.
12. Jerk Chicken (Jamaica)
Jerk chicken is a Jamaican specialty made by marinating chicken in a spicy mixture and slow-cooking it over pimento wood. It’s smoky, spicy, and incredibly flavorful.
13. Pretzels (Germany)
German pretzels are soft, chewy, and sprinkled with coarse salt. Often served with mustard or cheese sauce, they are a classic street food that’s perfect for snacking.
14. Dumplings (China)
Chinese dumplings, or jiaozi, are filled with meat and vegetables, then steamed, boiled, or fried. They are a versatile and delicious street food enjoyed throughout China.
15. Kebabs (Middle East)
Kebabs consist of skewered and grilled meat, often served with flatbread and salad. They are a staple street food in many Middle Eastern countries, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
16. Hot Dogs (United States)
Hot dogs are a quintessential American street food. Whether topped with mustard, ketchup, onions, or sauerkraut, they are a convenient and satisfying meal on the go.
17. Baozi (China)
Baozi are steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables. They are a popular street food in China, known for their soft texture and flavorful fillings.
18. Crepes (France)
French crepes are thin pancakes filled with sweet or savory ingredients. From Nutella and bananas to ham and cheese, they are a versatile and delicious street food.
19. Pupusas (El Salvador)
Pupusas are thick corn tortillas stuffed with fillings like cheese, beans, and pork. Served with curtido (pickled cabbage) and salsa, they are a Salvadoran specialty.
20. Fish and Chips (United Kingdom)
Fish and chips consist of battered and fried fish served with thick-cut fries. This British classic is best enjoyed with a splash of vinegar and a side of mushy peas.
Ready for a Culinary Adventure?
These street foods offer a taste of different cultures and flavors from around the world. Which one will you try first on your culinary journey?
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Aleksandr Shilov.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.