Many of us look forward to the next time we get to eat. Whether it’s a light snack or a flavourful home-cooked meal, for the foodies among us, the anticipation is often the highlight of our day. Therefore, it’s only natural to look to explore local cuisines as you plan your next holiday.
Visiting another country is a prime opportunity to broaden your culinary horizons. The types of food on offer vary greatly from country to country – from light, fresh seafood creations to warm, hearty lasagne, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we explore our top four cuisines to feature in your next trip if you’re looking to sample some truly authentic dishes.
When you think of Spanish cuisine, paella is often the first thing that comes to mind. Hailing from the vibrant coastal region of Valencia, paella is a rice-based dish infused with saffron. It’s commonly cooked with seafood, chicken and vegetables but many different varieties exist to cater to specific diets and tastes.
This flavoursome dish captures the essence of Spain’s famous coastline, with the rich flavours transporting your mind to the shore.
A hearty and flavoursome dish, moussaka is an absolute favourite in Cypriot cuisine. This Mediterranean gem may be considered a Greek dish, but Cyprus has its own take on it. The Cypriots use various techniques and ingredients that differentiate the dish from the Greek version, lying primarily in the sauce, spices and the inclusion of halloumi cheese.
Moussaka is essentially a Cypriot version of lasagne, making it an excellent option for children. It’s also a great dish to share together on a family holiday due to the large portions and comforting flavours, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters. It’s prepared using layers of eggplant, minced meat and potatoes, topped with bechamel sauce, melding together to create truly unique flavours.
Perhaps not as child-friendly is escargot, the famous French delicacy. These small land snails are prepared with garlic and parsley, melding together to create a delicate yet rich flavour. This dish is usually reserved for the more adventurous foodies, as the thought of eating snails can be daunting. But holidays are the perfect time to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new flavours, so why not give it a try?
Escargot is often served as an appetiser accompanied by crusty bread, so there’s no need to commit to sacrificing your main course in order to try it either.
The crowd favourite, classic comfort food and hearty family meal – lasagne. Italy is the country that often comes to mind when we think of our favourite foods and is definitely one of the most popular choices. Lasagne, in particular, is an Italian classic, consisting of flat pasta sheets, bolognese sauce, bechamel sauce and enough cheese to fill your heart.
The dish is typically made with minced beef, but this timeless creation is so versatile that it can be prepared in many ways. A popular alternative among vegetarians includes roasted vegetables in place of the meat, maintaining the heart of the lasagne while catering to dietary requirements.
Embarking on a foodie tour of Europe is a dream come true for many, but it can be hard to know where to start. With so many fantastic cuisines to try, narrowing down your options for just one holiday is tricky. But rest assured, no matter where you choose to go, you’re bound to discover new flavours and delight your taste buds.
