"TRAVEL THE WORLD FROM YOUR KITCHEN - INTERNATIONAL RECIPES TO TRY AT HOME": DE MODE GLOBAL

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 12 MAY 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com

In the age of the pandemic, travel restrictions and lockdowns have made it difficult for people to explore the world. However, there's no need to give up on experiencing different cultures and cuisines. With just a few ingredients, you can transport your taste buds to different parts of the world. Here are five international recipes to try at home that will help you satisfy your wanderlust from your own kitchen.

Pad Thai from Thailand

Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish that is easy to make at home. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors. The primary ingredients are rice noodles, eggs, tofu, garlic, bean sprouts, scallions, peanuts, and a special sauce made from tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The dish is typically topped with lime wedges and cilantro.

To make Pad Thai, first, soak the rice noodles in warm water for 15 minutes until they are soft. Then, in a large skillet or wok, sauté the garlic and tofu until the tofu is browned. Add in the noodles, eggs, and sauce, and stir until everything is well combined. Finally, add in the bean sprouts and scallions and cook until the vegetables are slightly wilted. Garnish with peanuts, lime wedges, and cilantro.

Photo by Augustinus Martinus Noppé

Paella from Spain

Paella is a classic Spanish dish that originated in Valencia. It is a one-pot meal made with rice, seafood, chicken, vegetables, and saffron. The saffron gives the dish its distinctive yellow color and adds a subtle flavor. The key to making a good paella is to cook the rice until it is al dente and to let the dish simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

To make paella, first, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until they are translucent. Then, add the diced chicken and cook until it is browned on all sides. Add in the diced vegetables, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and peas, and cook until they are slightly softened. Finally, add the rice and saffron and stir until the rice is coated with oil. Add in the seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, or clams, and let the dish simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the seafood is tender.

Photo by Brutally Honest

Katsu Curry from Japan

Katsu Curry is a popular Japanese dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken or pork cutlets served with a thick curry sauce. The dish is usually served with rice and pickles. The curry sauce is made with onions, carrots, potatoes, and a blend of spices, including curry powder, garam masala, and cumin.

To make Katsu Curry, first, prepare the chicken or pork cutlets by coating them in egg and breadcrumbs and frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. Then, make the curry sauce by sautéing the onions, carrots, and potatoes in oil until they are slightly softened. Add in the spices and cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Finally, add in the chicken or pork stock and let the sauce simmer until it is thick and flavorful.

Photo by Cats Coming

Moussaka from Greece

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish that is made with layers of sliced eggplant, ground lamb or beef, and a creamy béchamel sauce. The dish is typically served hot and can be accompanied by a Greek salad or pita bread.

To make Moussaka, first, slice the eggplant and salt it to remove any excess moisture. Then, grill or roast the eggplant until it is tender and slightly charred. Brown the ground meat in a skillet, and add in diced onions and garlic.

photo by My Greek Dish