Cooking has always been a hobby of mine. I especially love how some foods can take you to a foreign country that you’ve never even visited. The problem is that I’m not the best cook, and I’m in college. Therefore, I don’t necessarily have a lot of space or money to be making fancy dishes or to travel. I'm fairly sure that I'm not the only one with this dilemma. That being said, I’ve compiled some great recipes for a five course meal that will take you on a free trip around the world.
Chilean Apio Palta
If you love guac, then you’re sure to enjoy this dish. Start off your meal with this effortless celery and avocado salad from Chile. The acidity, along with the mix of flavors, makes this dish so simply elegant. It’s refreshing, and it only takes five ingredients! Anyone can make it, and the ingredients can easily be found in your local supermarket. This take on a salad celebrates Chile while providing a fresh appetizer to begin your global taste test.
Vietnamese Pho
We all love pho. This soup, inspired by the popular dish, maintains the complexity and depth of the original while making it easier to put together. The best part is that it’s such a customization soup. If you don’t have bok choy at hand, use spinach or even kale. If rice noodles are hard to find, just use those ramen noodles you’ve got hidden away. This main course can be made to fit your needs and your wallet. Take out those chopsticks for this once in a lifetime delicacy that will take you halfway around the world in .
Puerto Rican Tostones
Fried, crispy, and golden, aka the love of my life. Chow down on this side-dish that will rival your love for french fries. This is a typical Puerto Rican side dish that can be paired with any type of dip. It can also be turned into a main dish by adding on some meat and veggies. Make this recipe your own! There’s space for creativity with these fried plantains. What I personally love is that these make me feel as if I’m on vacation relaxing on a hammock near the beach in Puerto Rico.
PS: Mix mayonnaise and ketchup to make a tostones dip that will change your life.
Italian Cioccolata Calda
I’m always down for a nice hot chocolate. This Italian version of the drink is no exception, it’s rich and delizioso! Basically, it’s like a warm hug in a cup. Add some whip cream or nutmeg on top to add some personality to your beverage. The best part about this drink is that you don’t have to feel guilty because it only has 112 calories! Take a break from the usual mug of coffee and give this decadent hot chocolate a try.
Dutch Stroopwafel
Thin waffle crackers paired with a delectable filling. This sweet and gooey dessert is the ideal way to end your international meal. Sit one on top of your cioccolata and the inside will heat to perfection. When you take a bite, it will melt in your mouth and make you wish you could move to the Netherlands. If you don’t have a stroopwafel maker, you can make these with a waffle cone or a crepe maker.
I hope these recipes give you the mini vacation you deserve. Feel free to make them your own; add your favorite seasonings and take out those that you don’t like. I urge to step out of your comfort zone and try out foods from other countries. You would be surprised how many yummy flavor combinations are out there in the world!
