While you might not be able to head to new countries, you can recreate new culinary experiences at home. Here are some top ways you can journey to distant countries via your kitchen…
Lockdown restrictions mean limited opportunities to travel. Packing up essentials to hop on a plane seems like a most distant dream right now. And with our favourite restaurants closed, there’s little chance of a bought-in meal. This isn’t true for everyone, but thinking up ways to spice up mealtimes is starting to become tedious.
Why not get 2 birds with 1 stone and travel the world through food? There’s no better way to experience a country than through sampling its cuisine. Rustle up something new tonight from your favourite holiday destination. Dream of sunset tinted beaches whilst you scoff down some of the worlds most sumptuous foodie feasts.
Here are just a few great countries you can visit via your kitchen.
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Mexico
First, we’re visiting the cultural delight that is Mexico. There’s taste galore in the food and drink capital of the world. Think Nachos, Tacos, Tostadas and Enchiladas. The food is to die for and cheap to buy (and recreate). Make your recreation authentic by using the freshest of ingredients. You don’t want store-bought jars of salsa – make your own.
Why not try a Crab Tostada with a recipe inspired by a stall at London’s Borough Market? That way, you can embrace Mexican food and get your takeout fix all in one go.
China
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Next stop, China. Known lovingly as ‘the factory of the world’, Chinas’ had the fastest growing economy for the past 30 years. The country doesn’t just know how to make a country boom. It also knows how to make food that’ll leave you wanting more. There’s a reason it’s the most favoured takeaway in the UK after all!
The key to authentic Chinese food is 5 vital ingredients. Five Spice powder, Light and Dark Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Rice Vinegar and Oyster Sauce. They’ll take your home creation to the next level. Check out this Char Siu Pork recipe that’s sure to tickle your tastebuds.
Spain
Embrace the culture of the most laid-back people in the world and take a trip to Spain. Another food-loving country, there’s plenty of top-notch dishes perfect for your home-cooking, travel extravaganza. Top of the list has to be Tapas. Picture perfect, bite-sized delights that are simple to make and master.
If you want to master Spanish food from home, don’t forget some quality Olive Oil and plenty of Garlic. They’re a staple in every dish. Make a big Paella, some quesadillas get some wine in and relax like you’re in the Mediterranean jewel itself.
Greece
Another Mediterranean jewel that should not be overlooked. The birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western civilisation: Greece. Not only does it have one of the most magnificent ancient histories, but the food is a thing of beauty. And they know how to make a dip! Taramasalata, Tzatziki, Melitzanosalata and Fava; every single one will improve a dish and can’t be ignored when making Greek food.
If you want something sweet, Greece can more than oblige. Indulge with a classic Baklava, dripping in honey. What’s not to love?
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India
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A world tour of food wouldn’t be complete without visiting India. It’s a flavour sensation of a country, brimming with diverse culture and colourful celebrations. India’s food offerings are loved worldwide for being diverse and having unparalleled use of herbs and spices.
To make authentic Indian food, first, make sure the spices you’re using aren’t past their best. If your spices are dry, they’re missing the natural oils that make your food aromatic. If you struggle making Indian food taste just as good as the professionals, use a tried and tested cookbook.
