Get ready to spice up your culinary game! Street food from around the world is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, and we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to take you on a gastronomic journey. From the sweet and sticky flavors of Thai Mango Sticky Rice to the spicy kick of Korean Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes), and from the savory taste of Indian Pani Puri to the crispy delight of Japanese Takoyaki (Octopus Balls), we’ve curated a list of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or spicy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron and let’s start cooking!
Thai Mango Sticky Rice
A classic Thai dessert, mango sticky rice is a sweet and savory treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creamy texture of glutinous rice. This simple recipe yields a delicious and authentic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3-4 ripe mangoes, sliced
– Freshly grated lime zest and juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
3. Heat coconut milk, vegetable oil, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture comes together and thickens slightly.
4. To assemble, place cooked sticky rice on a serving plate, top with sliced mango, and drizzle with coconut milk sauce. Garnish with freshly grated lime zest and juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Elote (Grilled Corn)
This classic Mexican street food recipe brings the flavors of the fiesta to your backyard! Sweet, juicy corn on the cob smothered in a tangy blend of mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. Slather each ear with mayonnaise, then sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the corn.
5. Sprinkle Cotija cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indian Pani Puri
Pani puri, also known as golgappas, is a popular street food in India that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe will guide you through the process of making crispy pani puris and serving them with a flavorful potato filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
– Potato mixture (see below for ingredients)
– Chutneys and toppings of your choice
Potato Mixture:
– Boiled and mashed potatoes
– Onions, finely chopped
– Garlic, minced
– Coriander leaves, chopped
– Amchur powder, to taste
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Fry the pani puris in hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve with the potato mixture, chutneys, and toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Korean Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this classic Korean street food dish, Tteokbokki! This spicy rice cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 200g tteok (Korean rice cakes)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tteok according to package instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, water, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked tteok and stir to coat with the spicy sauce.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Simit (Sesame Bread Rings)
Turkish Simit (Sesame Bread Rings) Recipe
Summary: This traditional Turkish bread, also known as simit, is a delicious and crispy sesame-coated ring-shaped bread. Perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ring shape and coat with sesame seeds.
7. Fry the simit rings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: You can also bake the simit in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
Vietnamese Banh Mi Sandwich
A classic Vietnamese sandwich, Banh Mi combines the flavors of grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and spicy mayo on a crispy baguette. This recipe is a simplified take on the traditional street food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, split lengthwise
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro leaves
– Spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and 2 tablespoons water. Add the sliced pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the pork for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Split the baguette in half lengthwise. Toast or grill the bread until crispy.
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading spicy mayo on the bottom half of the baguette, then adding pickled carrots and daikon, grilled pork, and cilantro leaves. Top with the top half of the baguette.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
Japanese Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)
Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique flavor and texture. This recipe will guide you through the process of making authentic octopus balls at home.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup takoyaki flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup diced octopus
– 1/4 cup diced green onion
– 1/4 cup grated daikon (Japanese white radish)
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine) or mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together takoyaki flour and water to form a batter.
2. Add diced octopus, green onion, daikon, tempura bits (if using), soy sauce, sake/mirin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat a takoyaki grill or a non-stick pan with oil over medium heat.
4. Using a ladle, pour the batter onto the grill/pan to form small balls.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indonesian Satay with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Indonesia with this classic satay recipe, served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Satay:
– 500g chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
For the Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and mix well.
3. Thread chicken onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill satay for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.
6. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour in peanut sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Msemen (Stuffed Pancakes)
In Morocco, msemen are a popular breakfast or snack option, typically filled with sweet or savory ingredients. This recipe fills fluffy pancakes with a spicy lamb and onion mixture for a flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1/2 pound ground lamb
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle a spoonful of filling in the center of the pancake.
6. Fold the pancake in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4-5 pancakes at a time)
Filipino Halo-Halo (Shaved Ice Dessert)
Halo-halo, a popular Filipino dessert, is a refreshing treat perfect for hot summer days. This sweet and milky concoction combines shaved ice with a mix of fruits, sweets, and creamy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shaved ice
– 1/2 cup sweetened plantain or banana extract
– 1/4 cup evaporated milk
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup mixed fruits (such as beansprouts, kaong, and langka)
– 1/4 cup arnibal (sweet potato) balls
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cream or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shaved ice, plantain extract, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the mixed fruits and arnibal balls to the mixture. Stir gently.
3. Serve immediately and top with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Greek Souvlaki (Grilled Meat Skewers)
Greek Souvlaki (Grilled Meat Skewers)
Summary: A classic Greek street food recipe, souvlaki is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Marinated meat skewers are grilled to perfection, served with a side of tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork or chicken, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the meat cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce (recipe available separately).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Brazilian Coxinha (Chicken Croquettes)
Coxinha is a popular Brazilian street food that consists of crispy fried dough filled with shredded chicken. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Brazil to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shredded chicken, beating until well combined.
3. If using cheese, add it to the mixture and stir.
4. Gradually add the beaten egg, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dough into the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare, 10-12 minutes to cook.
Malaysian Roti Canai with Curry Dip
Experience the authentic taste of Malaysia with this simple recipe for flaky roti canai served with a rich and creamy curry dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Curry Dip:
+ 1 onion, diced
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon curry powder
+ 1 can coconut milk
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide dough into small balls and roll out each ball to a thin circle.
6. Cook roti canai on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
7. To make curry dip, sauté onion and garlic in oil until softened. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
8. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve roti canai warm with curry dip.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Egyptian Koshari (Lentils and Rice)
Koshari is a popular Egyptian dish that combines the flavors of lentils, rice, and tomato sauce. This simple recipe makes a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: vinegar and chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, lentils, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Simmer the mixture for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve the koshari with cooked rice and a dollop of yogurt (optional).
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Peruvian Anticuchos (Grilled Beef Heart)
A classic Peruvian street food, anticuchos are a flavorful and bold treat that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced beef heart to the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the beef heart from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the beef heart strips for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve anticuchos hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as grilled corn, potatoes, and ají amarillo sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Lebanese Manakish (Za’atar Flatbread)
Experience the flavors of Lebanon with this classic flatbread, topped with a fragrant blend of za’atar herbs. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Za’atar mixture (see below)
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped parsley
Za’atar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Divide dough into 4-6 pieces, depending on desired size.
7. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
8. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Za’atar mixture.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Colombian Arepas with Cheese
Arepas are a staple food in Colombia, and when filled with melted cheese, they become an irresistible snack. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of grilled cornmeal patties and gooey cheese for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pre-cooked white or yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup grated queso fresco or mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal and salt.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil until the mixture forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired arepa size.
5. Flatten each piece into a disk shape.
6. Place a tablespoon of butter in the center of each arepa, followed by a sprinkle of cheese.
7. Fold the arepas in half to enclose the filling and press gently to seal.
8. Cook the arepas over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pakistani Chana Chaat (Spicy Chickpeas)
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this addictive street food-style snack from Pakistan!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until they start to brown (5 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, salt, and lemon juice. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Jamaican Jerk Chicken: A Spicy Twist on Classic Chicken
With its bold flavors and aromatic spices, Jamaican jerk chicken is a Caribbean-inspired dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe combines the richness of allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers with the warmth of garlic and ginger to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tsp ground thyme
– 1/2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, allspice, thyme, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with soy sauce, and sprinkle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4
Spanish Churros with Chocolate Dip
Experience the authentic taste of Spain with these crispy, sugary churros paired with a rich and creamy chocolate dip. Perfect for snack or dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Churros:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Chocolate Dip:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Fry churros in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels.
6. Melt chocolate chips with heavy cream and butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
7. Serve warm churros with the rich chocolate dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes frying time)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 bold and flavorful street food recipes from around the world! From Thai Mango Sticky Rice to Indian Pani Puri, Korean Tteokbokki, and many more, this collection of international dishes will take you on a culinary journey. Discover Mexican Elote, Turkish Simit, Vietnamese Banh Mi Sandwich, Japanese Takoyaki, and other mouth-watering treats that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, spicy, or crunchy, there’s something for everyone in this diverse selection of street food recipes.
