Hidden Gems: Underrated International Cuisines You have Never Tried (But Should!)

A plate of Bread with sunny side up egg on top
                                      Photo by Christine Isakzhanova on Unsplash

Introduction

Are you a food enthusiast always looking for the next adventure on your plate? If so, it's time to look beyond the common destinations, and discover some of the world's least known cuisines. Everyone is familiar with Italian pasta or Japanese sushi, but there is a treasure trove of international flavors waiting to be discovered. From hearty stews to fragrant spices, these culinary gems deserve a spot on your plate.

1. Georgian Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses

Georgian food is at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where its cuisine is known for fresh herbs and bold spices. The culinary delights of this country are an explosion of flavor and tradition, a true celebration of the senses.

Must-try dishes include:

  • Khachapuri - a cheesy bread often shaped like a boat with a runny egg on top
  • Khinkali - juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat or mushrooms.
  • Lobio: Bean stew with a deep flavor and rich texture due to coriander and garlic.

Why Try It? No one has ever had anything close to this taste of textures, and it really pairs well with Georgian wine - the oldest tradition in the world.

2. Peruvian Cuisine: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Peru's diverse geography-from the Andes to the Amazon-is reflected in its cuisine. A harmonious blend of indigenous and immigrant influences has turned Peruvian food into a global sensation waiting to be fully appreciated.

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, spiced with chili, and served with corn and sweet potatoes.
  • Lomo Saltado: Stir-fry with beef, tomatoes, onions, and soy sauce on rice, along with fries.
  • Aji de Gallina is a chicken stew with creamy characteristics and touches of chili.
Try it for a perfect mix of flavors and a healthy choice as well, incorporating unique Peruvian cooking techniques.

3. Ethiopian Cuisine: Celebrating Community

Ethiopian food is much more than a meal; it's an experience. Meals are usually served on a large platter lined with injera, a sourdough flatbread, and then shared among the diners.

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Doro Wat: A spicy chicken stew simmered with onions, garlic, and berbere spice.
  • Tibs: Sautéed meat or vegetables, often served with injera.
  • Misir Wot: A lentil stew full of aromatic spices.

Why Try It? The communal nature of Ethiopian dining, combined with the bold, earthy flavors, makes for a meal to remember.

4. Filipino Cuisine: A Melting Pot of Flavors

Due to the historical position of the Philippines as the crossroads of Asia, Spain, and the United States, there is a distinct cuisine that exists nowhere else. The flavors are frequently sweet, savory, and sour in one dish.

Must-Try Dishes:
  • Adobo- meat braised in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices.
  • Lechon-whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender meat.
  • Halo-Halo: A colorful dessert made of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and leche flan.

Why Try It? Filipino food is a comforting and bold mix of flavor meant for adventurous eaters.

5. Lebanese Cuisine: Symphony of Freshness

Lebanese food reflects the Mediterranean diet - fresh vegetables, olive oil, and spicy scents. It is perfect for feasting and for celebratory events.

Must-try dishes:
  • Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad in which parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice are the main ingredients.
  • Kibbeh: Ground meat mixed with spice and bulgur; it is mostly fried or baked.
  • Manakish: Thin bread topped with za'atar, cheese, or meat.

Why Try It? Lebanese food is as wholesome as it is flavorful, offering a balance of textures and tastes that leave you craving more.

How to Discover These Cuisines

  • Local Eateries: Look for authentic restaurants or pop-up events in your city that specialize in these cuisines.
  • Home Cooking: Try to recreate these dishes at home using online recipes and ingredients sourced from specialty grocery stores.
  • Travel Adventure: Plan your next vacation around experiencing the culinary culture of these regions firsthand.

Conclusion

These underrated international cuisines are bursting with flavors that deserve global recognition. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just starting your culinary journey, exploring Georgian, Peruvian, Ethiopian, Filipino, and Lebanese dishes will expand your palate and ignite your taste buds. So, what are you waiting for? Take a bite out of the world and uncover these hidden gems of the food universe.

Don't forget to share your experience and favorite dishes in the comments below. Happy eating!

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