We learn a lot about a country's history through cuisine. For example, why does the American culture value lobster so much? It started off as something that the early settlers of the country were eating to save themselves from starving. Now it has evolved into a $20+ dollar feast. What was one country's trash food has become this generation's luxury.
One of the reasons why Americans love America is the diverse cuisine. The cultures and traditions of many people are reflected in the thousands of choices we have when it comes to our next meal. I love how so many delicious foods from different country's take root here and then, like a fine wine, age to perfection over time.
I applaud the fact that some of my favorite foods are from other countries and that just over the last decade, these foods have become culinary main stays. I am glad to see things like authentic Mexican taco stands, Brazilian barbacoa, and jars of Nutella have spread themselves themselves across the American lifestyle and continue to gain in popularity.
Unfortunately, the world contains far too many sumptuous delicacies that have yet to make a scene in American culture. Though there are thousands of things that I wish I could go to the market and pick off the shelf, below is a handful of food items I hope and wish would make it to our shores.
1. The Döner Kebab
Perhaps one of my all time favorite street foods, the döner kebab is a Turkish delight. The kebab consists of two pieces of artisan bread or a giant fluffy flower tortilla. The bread is then packed with hot freshly sliced lamb or pork. It is then stuffed with lettuce, tomato, onions, yogurt (cream) and finishes it off with a bit of chili powder. Imagine a gyro on steroids. If you are longing for one while in Europe, just look for the rotating leg of lamb hanging on the rotisserie in a street side shop. I fell in love with these in Europe and wish they would make a strong showing in the U.S.2. Queso Mennonita
Having consumed my fair share of cheese from around the globe, including Switzerland, Mennonite cheese is my favorite and I wish it would cross the boarder. An original creation from the Mennonite colonies of Chihuahua, Mexico, this cheese, like many of the goods that the Mennonite and Amish communities produce, is the perfect blend of sour and salty flavors. Perfect for a stack of nachos.
3. Orangina
One of the best sodas in the world. A main stay beverage that has been around in Europe for over 5 decades, Orangina combines the taste of the perfect orange soda mixed with orange juice. Each bottle has small morsels of orange floating around in it to give it that extra boost. The bottle design resembles that of the fruit it contains. It also comes in grapefruit flavor. Both are delightfully refreshing and need to splash on the seen here in the U.S.4. Pastel De Tres Leches
A cake baked from the ovens of heaven. This cake is a Mexican birthday tradition. The cake is a marriage between 3 different milks (condensed, half and half, evaporated) and the cake itself. By doing this, the cake becomes that much more moist and that much sweeter. Top it with a layer of frosting and you have a treat fit for un Rey.
5. Brazilian Lemonade
One of the nectars from the gods, Brazilian lemonade is a generationally handed down recipe for families through the vast country. The drink combines water, sugar, sweet and condensed milk, and a bunch of limes. Toss the four ingredients into a blender and you have yourself one delicious summertime beverage.
There you have it. Five foods that need to make a scene in 2014. Until then, continue to explore new foods that are out there. Don't forget to try everything at least once.
