Get ready to spice up your culinary adventures! Are you a foodie looking for new flavors to tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this collection of 20 authentic ethnic recipes from around the world. From spicy curries and savory stews, to vibrant street foods and decadent desserts, these dishes will take you on a gastronomic journey that’s sure to delight.
In the following pages, we’ll explore the bold flavors and rich traditions of cuisines from Thailand to Morocco, Japan to Brazil, and many more in between. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something for everyone in this diverse array of international recipes. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to embark on a flavorful journey around the world!
Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk
This aromatic curry is a classic Thai dish that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of green curry paste and fresh vegetables. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) bamboo shoots, drained and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let cook while vegetables absorb flavors, about 10 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this comforting bowl of miso ramen, topped with soft-boiled eggs and a sprinkle of green onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions (green onions)
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– 100g ramen noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, white miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Crack soft-boiled eggs into the hot broth and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the whites are set.
5. Divide the cooked noodles among bowls. Ladle the miso broth over the noodles.
6. Top with a soft-boiled egg, sliced scallions, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
This classic Indian dish is a staple of many restaurants and home kitchens, and for good reason – the combination of tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce and served over fluffy basmati rice is simply irresistible. With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the flavors of India in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened. Serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Mole Poblano with Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this classic recipe, featuring tender chicken smothered in a rich and complex mole poblano sauce. This iconic dish is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 mulato chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1/2 cup almonds
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Roast the chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
2. Grind the almonds and spices into a fine powder.
3. Simmer the sauce ingredients together for 10 minutes or until thickened.
4. Cook the chicken in boiling water until cooked through, then add to the sauce.
5. Simmer the chicken and sauce together for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot over rice or with tortillas.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots
This rich and flavorful Moroccan dish is a perfect blend of tender lamb, sweet apricots, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) apricots in syrup, drained and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a clay or ceramic tagine over medium heat.
2. Add lamb, onion, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne. Cook until lamb is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add apricots, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until lamb is tender.
4. Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve hot over couscous or rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ethiopian Doro Wat with Injera Bread
This classic Ethiopian dish combines rich, spicy stewed chicken with the signature sourdough flatbread, injera. Perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Doro Wat:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
For the Injera:
– 2 cups teff flour (or all-purpose flour as a substitute)
– 2 cups lukewarm water
– 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Doro Wat: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden, then add garlic, spices, and chicken. Brown the chicken, then add broth and water. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
2. Make the Injera: Mix teff flour and yeast (if using) with lukewarm water to form a thick batter. Let it rest for 1 hour. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet and spread evenly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm, savory bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir in the chopped kimchi, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Beef Brisket
This classic Vietnamese noodle soup is a staple of the country’s culinary scene, featuring tender beef brisket, fragrant herbs, and a rich, savory broth. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 inches ginger, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro), bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, onion, and ginger. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.
2. Add beef broth and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add sliced beef brisket to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 hours, or until tender.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble Pho by placing cooked noodles into bowls, topping with sliced beef brisket, and serving with garnishes.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including simmer time)
Greek Moussaka with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Greek dish that never fails to impress, this moussaka recipe combines tender eggplant slices, rich ground lamb, and creamy béchamel sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup béchamel sauce (see below)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds, salt, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and dry.
3. Cook lamb, onion, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper in a pan until the meat is browned, breaking it up as needed.
4. In a separate pot, make béchamel sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk.
5. Assemble the moussaka: layer eggplant slices, lamb mixture, and béchamel sauce in a baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lebanese Falafel with Tahini Sauce
A classic Middle Eastern street food, falafel is a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal. This recipe combines crispy, savory chickpea patties with a rich and creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Tahini sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the falafel for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Drain the falafel on paper towels and serve with tahini sauce.
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Garlic, to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve over falafel.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Peruvian Ceviche with Sweet Potato
Peruvian Ceviche with Sweet Potato Recipe
Discover the unique fusion of Peruvian flavors and sweet potato in this refreshing ceviche recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as sea bass or flounder), cut into small pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 aji amarillo peppers (or substitute with jalapeño), seeded and finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces, sweet potato, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to combine.
2. Add the chopped aji amarillo peppers and mix again to distribute evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, adjust the seasoning if needed and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Turkish Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Dip
Experience the bold flavors of Turkish cuisine with this simple and delicious recipe for lamb kebabs served with a refreshing yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 10 wooden skewers
– Yogurt Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add lamb cubes and mix until coated.
3. Thread 4-5 lamb pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill or broil kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb is cooked through to desired doneness.
Yogurt Dip:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced clove garlic
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Serve chilled alongside grilled kebabs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling time varies depending on heat and lamb thickness).
Spanish Paella with Seafood and Saffron
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic seafood paella recipe, infused with the warmth of saffron and the freshness of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and patted dry
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add seafood; cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Filipino Adobo with Chicken and Vinegar
Adobo, a staple dish in Filipino cuisine, is a flavorful and tangy stew that combines chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. This recipe yields tender and juicy chicken cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add bay leaves and season with salt to taste.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Russian Borscht with Sour Cream
This classic Russian recipe is a staple of Slavic cuisine, packed with vegetables, beans, and beef. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for an added richness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked beef (such as chuck roast), diced
– 1 cup frozen red cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add broth, water, diced tomatoes, beef, cabbage, and beans. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer (30 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering combination of spicy jerk chicken and sweet pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
7. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve jerk chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu with Sichuan Peppercorns
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the creamy texture of tofu with the bold flavors of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. This spicy mapo tofu is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, perfect for those who crave a good kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the soy sauce, wine, chili oil, and cornstarch mixture; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add the tofu back into the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brazilian Feijoada with Black Beans
Feijoada is a classic Brazilian dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender black beans, rich pork, and savory spices to create a hearty and flavorful stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds beef brisket or pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the meat in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the soaked black beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Polish Pierogi with Potato and Cheese
A classic Polish dish, pierogi are dumplings filled with a delicious combination of mashed potatoes and melted cheese. These comforting treats are perfect for a chilly evening or as a snack to share with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 3 large potatoes, peeled and cooked through
+ 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
+ 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
+ Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into smaller portions.
3. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the potato-cheese filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Fry pierogi in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Senegalese Thieboudienne with Fish and Rice
Thieboudienne is Senegal’s national dish, a flavorful one-pot meal made with fish, rice, and vegetables. This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the richness of tomato sauce and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add fish, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (4-6 minutes).
3. Add rice, diced tomatoes, water, and stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking routine with this collection of 20 authentic ethnic recipes! From the bold flavors of Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk, to the comforting warmth of Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, and from the spicy kick of Korean Kimchi Fried Rice to the rich traditions of Russian Borscht with Sour Cream. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an adventurous cook looking to try new flavors, this article has something for everyone. Discover the art of cooking from around the world and take your taste buds on a culinary journey!
