As a food enthusiast, you’re always on the lookout for new and exciting flavors to add to your culinary repertoire. One of the best ways to do this is by exploring authentic ethnic recipes from around the world. From spicy curries to rich stews, each culture has its own unique approach to cooking that can be adapted to suit any taste.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey around the globe, sharing 20 authentic ethnic recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and inspire your next meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy or rich and comforting, we’ve got you covered with our selection of international dishes that showcase the best of each culture’s culinary traditions.
So grab a pen and paper, and get ready to cook up some cultural fusion!
Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk
This creamy and aromatic Thai green curry is a classic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the spicy kick of green curry paste. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, Thai basil, etc.)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons green curry paste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the green curry paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A rich and savory Japanese-style noodle soup, this recipe combines the creamy umami of miso paste with springy soft-boiled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken or pork broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (or substitute with dry sherry)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, sliced
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, miso paste, soy sauce, sake, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer while you prepare the eggs.
4. Soft-boil eggs by placing them in a single layer in a saucepan, covering with cold water, and bringing to a boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 6-7 minutes.
5. Assemble ramen bowls by placing cooked noodles into each bowl, followed by sliced soft-boiled eggs, and finally the hot miso soup.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
Experience the flavors of India with this classic dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a creamy tomato sauce served over fluffy basmati rice.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
For the sauce:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the basmati rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Marinate the chicken in yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the chicken and sauce ingredients separately, then combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Mole Poblano with Chicken
This traditional Mexican dish is a staple of Puebla’s cuisine, characterized by its rich, complex flavor profile. With the combination of chocolate, spices, nuts, and chiles, this mole poblano is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Mexican crema (or substitute with sour cream)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Roast the ancho chiles in a dry skillet or oven until fragrant.
2. In a blender, combine roasted chiles, raisins, almonds, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Blend into a smooth paste.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic, mole paste, and crema to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots
This classic Moroccan dish combines the rich flavors of lamb, apricots, and spices to create a hearty and aromatic stew. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine (or Dutch oven) over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lamb, apricots, chicken broth, honey, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Greek Moussaka with Béchamel Sauce
This beloved Greek dish layers tender eggplant, rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel to create a hearty, satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and textures, moussaka is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup béchamel sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Cook ground meat mixture, onion, and garlic until browned; add crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble moussaka by layering cooked eggplant, meat sauce, and béchamel sauce in a baking dish.
5. Top with additional béchamel and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vietnamese Pho with Beef and Fresh Herbs
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of Vietnam’s national dish, Pho, as you simmer beef broth with tender slices of rare steak, served with a tangle of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rare steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup rice noodles
– Fresh herbs: basil leaves, mint leaves, and/or cilantro leaves
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add sliced steak to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked to your liking.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble Pho bowls by placing cooked noodles into a bowl, followed by slices of beef and a ladle of hot broth. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ethiopian Doro Wat with Injera Bread
A flavorful and aromatic stew originating from Ethiopia, Doro Wat is a staple dish that pairs perfectly with the traditional Injera Bread. This recipe combines chicken or beef with spices, onions, garlic, and berbere, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or beef cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp berbere spice mix
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken or beef, berbere spice mix, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the meat is browned.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened slightly.
7. Serve with Injera Bread, torn into small pieces, and use to scoop up the flavorful stew.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Korean Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Bibimbap, a beloved Korean dish, is a harmonious combination of colorful vegetables, savory meat, and a fried egg, all served over a bed of warm rice. This recipe adds an extra layer of depth with the spicy and sweet gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup sliced beef (or chicken or tofu for alternative options)
– 1 fried egg
– 2 tbsp gochujang sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: kimchi, pickled ginger, or other Korean-style toppings
Gochujang Sauce Recipe:
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame oil and garlic for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Prepare the mixed vegetables by sautéing them with sesame oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
3. Slice the beef into thin strips and cook according to your preference (grilled, pan-fried, or stir-fried).
4. Fry an egg in a separate pan and set aside.
5. Assemble the bibimbap by placing a scoop of rice in a bowl, followed by a portion of vegetables, sliced meat, and a fried egg.
6. Drizzle the gochujang sauce over the top and garnish with sesame oil and garlic (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peruvian Ceviche with Lime and Chili
A refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the brightness of lime juice with the heat of Peruvian chili peppers, this ceviche is a perfect representation of the country’s culinary spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as halibut or sea bass), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 Peruvian aji amarillo chilies, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Add the red onion, cilantro, and chopped chili peppers to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-45 minutes (depending on marinating time)
Lebanese Falafel with Tahini Dressing
This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food to your table, featuring crispy, flavorful falafel served with a creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
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 ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tahini dressing (see below)
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly add flour and process until mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties.
5. Fry falafel for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve with Tahini Dressing (see below).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Paella with Seafood and Saffron
Experience the flavors of Spain with this classic paella recipe, featuring succulent seafood and the iconic warmth of saffron. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and patted dry
– 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 the oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the seafood; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Add the rice, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Russian Beef Stroganoff with Sour Cream
This hearty dish combines tender beef strips, savory mushrooms, and creamy sour cream, all wrapped up in a flavorful sauce. A staple of Russian cuisine, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in boiling water until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic in oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in sour cream, beef broth, and mustard. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked beef strips to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Sauce
Savor the flavors of Turkey with these succulent lamb kebabs and creamy yogurt sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper (if using).
6. Serve kebabs with yogurt sauce and garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Chicken Adobo with Garlic Rice
Adobo is a classic Filipino dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender chicken cooked in a savory sauce with aromatic garlic rice.
Ingredients:
For the Adobo:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/4 cup water
For the Garlic Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in boiling water until cooked through. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, combine vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the cooked chicken to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Heat oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Mix with cooked rice and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Filipino Chicken Adobo with Garlic Rice!
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
This flavorful recipe combines the bold spices of Jamaica with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Jamaican jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a medium bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4
Polish Pierogi with Potato and Cheese Filling
These tender dumplings filled with a savory potato and cheese mixture are a staple of Polish cuisine. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the authentic taste of Poland in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 3 large potatoes, peeled and grated
+ 1/2 cup farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Knead the dough until smooth.
2. Divide the dough into smaller pieces and roll out each piece into a thin circle.
3. Place 1-2 tablespoons of potato and cheese filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pierogi for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as melted butter, sour cream, or fried onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brazilian Feijoada with Black Beans and Pork
Feijoada is a hearty and flavorful Brazilian stew made with black beans and pork. This classic dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return the pork to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Jam
A classic Scandinavian dish gets a sweet and tangy twist! These meatballs are made with ground beef, pork, and breadcrumbs, then simmered in a rich beef broth. Serve them with a dollop of lingonberry jam for a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lingonberry jam, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and flour in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat beef broth in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve hot with lingonberry jam spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu with Sichuan Peppercorns
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of soft tofu with the numbing, spicy flavor of Sichuan peppercorns. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Mapo tofu, but still packs plenty of punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (la jiao)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Sichuan peppercorns, doubanjiang, la jiao, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Explore the flavors of the world with these 20 authentic ethnic recipes. From spicy Thai green curry to rich Indian butter chicken, and from savory Moroccan lamb tagine to zesty Peruvian ceviche, this collection takes you on a culinary journey around the globe. Discover traditional dishes like Japanese miso ramen, Korean bibimbap, and Chinese mapo tofu, alongside international favorites like Mexican mole poblano and Greek moussaka. With recipes for every taste and dietary preference, this article is a must-read for anyone looking to spice up their cooking routine.
