16 International Dishes You Can Make Without Leaving Your Kitchen

You don’t need a plane ticket to experience the flavors of the world. With the right recipes, you can bring global cuisine straight to your kitchen. From Italy to South Korea, these international dishes are easier to make than you think!

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (Italy)

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish originating from Naples. It highlights the simplicity of garlic and olive oil, making it a quick meal. To make it, cook 400g of spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. In a separate pan, heat 100ml of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat and add 4 finely sliced garlic cloves. Sauté until golden, then stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Drain the spaghetti and toss it in the garlic oil, adding salt and freshly chopped parsley to taste. Serve hot for a delicious, authentic Italian experience.

Tacos al Pastor (Mexico)

Tacos al Pastor are a popular Mexican street food featuring marinated pork and fresh toppings. Start by marinating 500g of thinly sliced pork shoulder in a blend of 3 tablespoons of achiote paste, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of vinegar for at least an hour. Grill the pork until cooked through, then chop it finely. Serve on small corn tortillas topped with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. This dish is a flavorful explosion, bringing the vibrant taste of Mexico to your home. Enjoy these tacos with a side of salsa for an extra kick.

Pad Thai (Thailand)

Pad Thai is a beloved Thai stir-fried noodle dish that balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors. To prepare, soak 200g of rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and sauté 2 beaten eggs until scrambled. Add 200g of cooked shrimp or chicken, then toss in the drained noodles, 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir-fry for a few minutes, then serve with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh bean sprouts. This dish is a great way to enjoy Thai flavors in your own kitchen.

Shakshuka (North Africa/Middle East)

Shakshuka is a flavorful dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, often enjoyed for breakfast. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet, then add 1 chopped onion and 1 bell pepper, sautéing until soft. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Add 400g of canned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Create small wells in the sauce and crack in 4 eggs. Cover and cook until the eggs are just set, then serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Biryani (India)

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat or vegetables, widely popular in Indian cuisine. Begin by marinating 500g of chicken or lamb with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices (like garam masala) for at least an hour. Cook 300g of basmati rice until parboiled, then drain. In a large pot, layer the marinated meat, followed by the rice. Add fried onions, raisins, and chopped cilantro, then pour in 250ml of water. Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This dish is perfect for sharing and celebrating flavors.

Ratatouille (France)

Ratatouille is a traditional French vegetable dish that celebrates the bounty of summer produce. Start by dicing 1 eggplant, 1 zucchini, 1 bell pepper, and 1 onion. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the other vegetables, 2 minced garlic cloves, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence. Cook for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Serve warm as a side dish or over rice, enjoying the vibrant flavors of Provence.

Chicken Adobo (Philippines)

Chicken Adobo is a traditional Filipino dish known for its savory, tangy flavors. The key ingredients include chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. To prepare, marinate 1 kg of chicken pieces in a mixture of ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup vinegar, 6 crushed garlic cloves, and 2 bay leaves for at least 30 minutes. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat, then add the marinated chicken and brown it for about 5 minutes. Add the marinade, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve over steamed rice for a comforting meal that showcases the essence of Filipino cuisine.

Falafel (Middle East)

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas, often served in pita bread with tahini sauce. To make falafel, soak 250g of dried chickpeas overnight, then blend with 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of cumin, and a handful of parsley. Form into small balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the falafel until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Serve in pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. This dish is a satisfying vegetarian option that’s packed with flavor.

Goulash (Hungary)

Goulash is a hearty Hungarian stew known for its rich flavors and tender meat. Begin by browning 500g of beef in a large pot with 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 2 tablespoons of paprika, then add 1 diced bell pepper, 2 diced potatoes, and 1 liter of beef broth. Simmer for 1.5 hours until the meat is tender. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with crusty bread. This dish warms the heart and showcases Hungarian cuisine.

Sushi Rolls (Japan)

Sushi rolls are a versatile Japanese dish that can be filled with various ingredients. Start with 2 cups of sushi rice, rinsed and cooked according to package instructions. Once cooked, mix with 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar and let cool. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat and spread a thin layer of rice, leaving an inch at the top. Add fillings like cucumber, avocado, and raw fish, then roll tightly. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi for a delightful homemade sushi experience.

Empanadas (Argentina)

Empanadas are delicious pastry pockets filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, popular in Argentina. To make the dough, mix 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 150g of cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add 1 egg and enough cold water to form a dough. Roll out and cut into circles. For the filling, sauté 300g of ground beef with onions and spices, then place a spoonful inside each circle, fold, and crimp the edges. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy these savory bites as a snack or main dish.

Chana Masala (India)

Chana Masala is a flavorful Indian chickpea curry that’s both hearty and nutritious. Begin by sautéing 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons of oil until golden. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, and 1 teaspoon of garam masala, stirring for a minute. Incorporate 400g of canned chickpeas and 400g of diced tomatoes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then season with salt and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with rice or naan for a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.

Pesto Pasta (Italy)

Pesto Pasta is a simple yet delicious Italian dish that celebrates fresh basil. To make the pesto, blend 2 cups of fresh basil, 50g of pine nuts, 50g of Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of garlic, and 120ml of olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Cook 400g of pasta according to package instructions, then drain. Toss the hot pasta with the pesto until evenly coated. Serve with extra Parmesan on top for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Hummus (Middle East)

Hummus is a creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. In a food processor, combine 400g of canned chickpeas, 60ml of tahini, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of garlic, and the juice of 1 lemon. Blend until smooth, adding water to achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and garnish with paprika and olive oil. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables for a healthy, flavorful snack or appetizer.

Croque Monsieur (France)

Croque Monsieur is a classic French ham and cheese sandwich, perfect for brunch or a light meal. Start with 8 slices of bread and layer 4 with slices of ham and 4 with Gruyère cheese. Assemble the sandwiches, then spread 2 tablespoons of butter on each side. In a pan over medium heat, grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve hot, and for a twist, top with a fried egg to make it a Croque Madame. This dish is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy French flavors at home.

Bulgogi (South Korea)

Bulgogi is a savory Korean dish made from marinated beef that’s grilled or stir-fried. Start by thinly slicing 500g of beef and marinating it in a mixture of 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, and minced garlic for at least 30 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated beef until browned. Serve with rice and a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean meal. This dish is full of flavor and easy to prepare, making it a favorite among many.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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