Travel Global, Eat Local.

Sizzling rice in tomato sauce is a traditional Hangzhou dish consisting of piping hot tomato sauce that is poured over hot guoba (rice crust), producing an inviting fragrance and creating the characteristic sizzling sound, hence the name. Sometimes referred to as thunderbolt out of the blue, this delicious dish is usually combined with shredded chicken and stir-fried shrimps or other types of seafood. The crispy rice crusts can be made from scratch or purchased pre-cooked in Chinese and Asian supermarkets.

Dun niurou, translating to "stewed beef," is a cherished dish in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its tender meat and rich, savory broth. The preparation involves simmering beef cuts, often combined with ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and a medley of aromatic spices, over low heat until the flavors meld harmoniously. This slow-cooking method ensures the beef becomes succulent, absorbing the essence of the accompanying components. Dun niurou is particularly favored during colder months, offering warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows for regional variations across China, with local spices and ingredients adding unique twists to this classic stew.

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) is a hardy, nutrient-rich pseudocereal that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. Unlike common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), Tartary buckwheat is less widely cultivated but is known for its higher nutritional value and greater resilience to harsh growing conditions. Tartary buckwheat is believed to have originated in the cooler regions of Asia, particularly in the Himalayan region, including areas of present-day Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. From there, with time, it spread to Europe and North America. Tartary buckwheat is an annual plant that grows well in poor soil conditions and at high altitudes. It has heart-shaped leaves and produces small, white to pale green flowers. The seeds, or groats, are triangular in shape and have a tough outer hull that needs to be removed before consumption. The inner groats are similar in appearance to common buckwheat but are smaller and more bitter in taste. It is highly nutritious, offering a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), and minerals (including magnesium, manganese, and iron). It is particularly noted for its high levels of rutin, a flavonoid with antioxidant properties. Like other buckwheat varieties, Tartary buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. It is often ground into flour in Tibet and Nepal and used to make traditional dishes like pancakes, noodles, and dumplings. Its high nutritional value and medicinal properties made it a valuable food source. In Europe, particularly in the Alpine and Eastern European regions, Tartary buckwheat has been used to make porridge, bread, and other staple foods. In Russia, it is sometimes used in kasha, a type of porridge, and other traditional dishes. 

Irish butter refers to butter made in Ireland from the milk of cows that have been grass-fed, often without the use of growth hormones or antibiotics. This high-quality milk, rich in beta-carotene, results in a butter with a distinctive rich, creamy flavor and a natural golden color. The grass-fed diet of the cows has a significant impact on the flavor and texture of the butter, making it prized in culinary applications. The temperate climate in Ireland allows cows to graze on lush grasses for much of the year, leading to these unique characteristics. Irish butter contains at least 82% butterfat, giving it a distinct yellow hue. It rose to prominence in the early 18th century with the establishment of the Cork Butter Exchange, which is still the largest butter market in the world. Today, Irish butter is generally considered a premium product and is often more expensive than other types of butter available in the market.  

This simple Spanish sandwich is an egg-based bocadillo sandwich variety that’s made with Spanish bread and fried eggs. A crusty bread roll or barra de pan (Spanish-style baguette) is cut along the middle and filled with eggs that have been fried in olive oil and seasoned with salt. Other common additions to the sandwich’s filling include slices of cheese, ham, turkey breasts, lettuce or arugula leaves, and tomato slices. The cut side of the bread is often rubbed with ripe tomato halves for added flavor and juiciness, and the sandwich is usually enjoyed as a snack, accompanied by a refreshing cold drink on the side.

Shishito peppers are small, wrinkled green peppers originating from East Asia, particularly Japan, and are typically mild in flavor, although one in ten can be unexpectedly spicy. The peppers turn red when ripe but are harvested when still green. They can be pan-fried, broiled, stewed, and eaten raw in salads or as a condiment. Rich in vitamins A and C, shishito peppers provide nutritional benefits such as supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin. These peppers are easy to grow in warm climates, making them a popular choice for home gardeners interested in adding versatile vegetables to their crops. The name "shishito" comes from the Japanese words "shishi," meaning lion, and "togarashi," meaning chili pepper, referencing the tip of the pepper looking like a lion head. 

Gros Michel banana, sometimes known as "Big Mike," was the primary banana cultivar exported to the United States and Europe throughout the first half of the 20th century. It is known for its excellent taste, size, and resistance to handling and transportation, making it the dominant export banana until the 1950s. Gros Michel is larger, has a thicker skin, and, by many accounts, a sweeter and more flavorful taste than the Cavendish variety, which replaced it as the most widely exported banana. The decline of the Gros Michel as the leading export banana was due to Panama disease, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense. This soil-borne fungus attacks the banana plant's roots and vascular system, eventually killing the plant. By the 1960s, Panama disease had devastated Gros Michel plantations across Central and South America, leading to the adoption of the Cavendish banana. The Cavendish was resistant to the strain of Panama disease that killed the Gros Michel, though it is now threatened by a new strain of the same fungus.  

Choclo is the Quechua word for corn or maize, and in various South American countries, particularly in the Andean region, it refers to a specific type of large-kernel corn. Choclo kernels are much larger than those of the typical sweet corn known in many parts of North America. They are often white or pale yellow in color. Unlike the sweet corn commonly eaten off the cob in places like the U.S., choclo is not particularly sweet. Instead, it has a starchy, slightly chewy texture and a more earthy flavor. Choclo is commonly boiled or steamed and then eaten off the cob. One of the most iconic dishes featuring choclo is "ceviche," in which it provides a starchier counterpoint to the tangy, marinated seafood. In the Andes, especially in Peru and Ecuador, you'll also find choclo used in soups, stews, and side dishes. When served boiled or steamed on the cob, choclo is often paired with cheese, such as the salty queso fresco, creating a delightful combination of flavors.  

Adobo arequipeño is a traditional stew from the region of Arequipa, made with pork marinated in a blend of chicha de jora (a type of fermented corn beverage), vinegar, ají peppers, garlic, onions, and spices. The mixture is typically left to marinate overnight and then slowly simmered until the pork is tender. It's a popular dish often eaten during Sunday breakfasts or family gatherings.

Uova in purgatorio is a traditional dish from Naples that combines the richness of eggs with the bold, comforting flavor of tomato sauce, first mentioned in the Cucina teorico-pratica by Ippolito Cavalcanti in 1837. The eggs are gently cracked into a simmering pan of tomatoes—typically infused with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and sometimes onions or herbs—and cooked until the whites are set, but the yolks remain soft and runny. The name is poetically tied to its visual symbolism: the bubbling red tomato sauce represents the flames of purgatory, while the white eggs suspended within suggest the souls waiting to ascend. It’s a dish of deep Catholic imagery rooted in Naples' religious and cultural traditions. Uova in purgatoria is best enjoyed straight from the pan, preferably with a hunk of rustic bread or on top of toasted slices. It can be served for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner.

Ice cream potato is a whimsical ice cream dessert native to Boise, Idaho, that playfully masquerades as a baked potato but is, in fact, entirely sweet. Despite its convincing appearance, this optical illusion is made from vanilla ice cream shaped like a russet potato, rolled in cocoa powder to mimic the earthy potato skin, and loaded with sweet "toppings" designed to look just like the real thing. It's quirky, regional, and unapologetically fun—a dessert that celebrates Idaho's most famous crop with a wink and a smile. This novelty treat typically begins with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream hand-molded into an oblong, potato-like shape. It's then rolled in dark cocoa powder, which gives it the rough, brown exterior of a baked potato fresh from the oven. But the illusion doesn't stop there. The "potato" is usually split across the top, revealing a fluffy "filling" of whipped cream. A drizzle of yellow-colored frosting or white chocolate mimics melted butter, and sprinkles, chopped nuts, or crushed cookies may be added to resemble chives, bacon bits, or black pepper. The ice cream potato is most famously served at the Westside Drive-In in Boise, where it has achieved something of a cult following among locals and curious visitors. It’s become an unofficial edible mascot of Idaho’s food scene—equal parts kitsch and craftsmanship, with a surprisingly delicious flavor that lives up to its visual impact. Though it may look like a loaded baked potato, the flavor is all dessert: creamy vanilla, rich cocoa, light whipped cream, and sweet toppings that come together in an unexpectedly harmonious combination. The result is a playful and indulgent dish, grounded in local pride and served with a sense of humor.

Grappa di Barolo is a high-quality, region-specific Italian grappa produced exclusively from the pomace (vinaccia) of Nebbiolo grapes used in the winemaking process for Barolo DOCG. As a protected product under the Indicazione Geografica system, its production is strictly regulated to preserve its unique character and heritage. The grappa is obtained by distilling the fermented grape pomace—using steam distillation or with the controlled addition of water in the still—and may include small amounts of naturally fermented wine lees (fecce liquide) from Barolo DOCG production, within regulated limits. It is produced entirely within the Piedmont region, and its production, presentation, and labeling are governed by both Italian national regulations and European legislation. Grappa di Barolo IG can be aged in wooden containers, with designations such as “Vecchia” or "Invecchiata" indicating a minimum of 12 months of aging and “Riserva” or "Stravecchia" denoting an aging period of at least 18 months. This adherence to traditional methods and strict quality standards ensures that Grappa di Barolo IG not only reflects the distinctive qualities of its regional origins but also stands as a symbol of excellence in Piedmontese distillation craftsmanship.

Savagnin is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Jura wine region of France. It is known for producing distinctive and aromatic wines, including the famous Vin Jaune (yellow wine) of the Jura. The grape is characterized by its high acidity and complex flavor profile, often exhibiting notes of green apple, nuts, spices, and sometimes a hint of oxidation, which is a typical feature of wines from this region. Savagnin is closely related to other grape varieties such as Traminer and Gewürztraminer, and it thrives in the cool climate and limestone-rich soils of the Jura. Wines made from Savagnin are appreciated for their ability to age well and their unique, terroir-expressive qualities.

Petit Manseng is a white grape variety originating from the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France. It is renowned for its ability to produce high-quality wines, particularly sweet and late-harvest wines, though it is also used to make dry wines. The grape is characterized by its small, thick-skinned berries, which are resistant to rot and can achieve high levels of sugar while maintaining good acidity. Petit Manseng wines are known for their aromatic intensity and complexity. They often exhibit flavors of tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, along with citrus notes like lemon and grapefruit. Additionally, they may have hints of honey, spices, and floral aromas, contributing to a rich and layered palate. The high acidity of Petit Manseng wines provides a refreshing balance to their sweetness, making them well-structured and age-worthy. In its native region, Petit Manseng is traditionally used to produce sweet wines by allowing the grapes to undergo a process known as passerillage, where they partially dry on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors. These wines, known as Jurançon Moelleux, are lush and aromatic, often enjoyed as dessert wines or paired with foie gras, blue cheeses, and fruit-based desserts. The dry wines, Jurançon Sec, are equally respected, offering a vibrant, crisp profile with pronounced fruit and mineral notes.  

Beniano cocoa, also known as cacao silvestre, is a rare, fine-flavor cacao variety native to the wild forests along the Beni River in Bolivia. The Beniano pod is typically small and rounded, much smaller than conventional cacao pods like Forastero or Trinitario. Its shape and size make it easier to handle in the wild, and it matures into a yellow-orange color when ripe. The surface is smoother and less ridged than most commercial varieties, reflecting its unique genetic identity and ancestral lineage. Beniano cocoa beans are small and round, with a low bitterness and a high fat content, making them ideal for premium chocolate production. The flavor is remarkably delicate and floral, with notes of honey, dried fruit, jasmine, and mild spice, often with a subtle citrus brightness. The taste is refined and well-balanced, without the aggressive bitterness found in bulk cacao varieties. Revered for its delicate aroma and complex taste profile, Beniano is part of the wild Amazonian cacao family, often considered a genetic treasure in the world of chocolate. It is typically classified under Bolivian wild cacao or referred to as a sub-variety of Criollo, though its genetics remain unique and highly prized. Unlike cultivated cacao, Beniano grows naturally in the floodplains and rainforests of the Bolivian Amazon. The trees are not planted but rather harvested from the wild, often requiring travel by canoe or on foot through dense jungle. This foraging-based harvesting process not only preserves the natural ecosystem but also connects the cocoa to centuries-old traditions of the indigenous and rural communities who have worked with these trees for generations. Due to its remote origin, limited harvests, and intensive collection process, Beniano cocoa is considered rare and exclusive, used primarily by artisan and bean-to-bar chocolate makers seeking exceptional raw material. Its wild nature and nuanced flavor place it among the world’s most coveted heirloom cocoas, celebrated not only for its taste but for its ecological and cultural significance.

Pylsur sausage is the Icelandic version of a hot dog sausage and is the main component of Iceland's beloved hot dogs, called "pylsur." Known for its distinctive flavor and high-quality ingredients, pylsur sausage is an essential part of Icelandic cuisine. It is made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, with lamb being the standout ingredient. The lamb used in Iceland is often free-range, grass-fed, and raised in pristine environments, contributing to the unique taste of the sausage. The flavor profile is mildly smoky and savory, with the lamb providing a distinct richness complemented by the pork and beef. The sausage has a smooth, uniform texture and is encased in a natural casing, which gives it a pleasant "snap" when bitten into. Pylsur sausages are long and slender, fitting perfectly into the traditional Icelandic hot dog buns. They are typically boiled or grilled before being served in a soft, slightly sweet bun. The sausages are traditionally topped with raw onions, crispy fried onions, sweet mustard, remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce with herbs and capers), and Icelandic ketchup, which is slightly sweeter than other ketchups. Pylsur sausages are an iconic part of Icelandic street food and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, often at popular stands like Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavik. One of the most well-known producers of pylsur sausage in Iceland is SS (Sláturfélag Suðurlands), whose SS Pylsur are widely recognized as the standard for Icelandic hot dogs.

Maui onions are a variety of sweet onion grown on the island of Maui in Hawaii. They are known for their unique, sweet flavor and low sulfur content, which makes them less pungent and more palatable when eaten raw compared to other onion varieties. These onions are typically plump and round with a pale golden peel and a juicy, white flesh. They are known for being crisp and firm. Due to their sweetness, Maui onions are versatile in the kitchen. They can be eaten raw in salads or sandwiches, grilled, roasted, or used in salsas and dips. Their sweetness also caramelizes well, making them a popular choice for cooking.

Babaco (lat. Vasconcellea × heilbornii) is a fruit native to the highland regions of Ecuador, belonging to the Caricaceae family and related to the papaya. The fruit is distinct in its characteristics and cultivation, featuring an elongated shape and a pentagonal cross-section. When ripe, babaco fruits are yellow and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The flavor of babaco is unique, offering a slightly tangy taste that combines notes of pineapple, papaya, and strawberry. Its flesh is juicy and seedless, making it easy to eat and process. Nutritionally, babaco is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber while being low in calories, making it a healthy dietary choice. In culinary applications, babaco is versatile and can be eaten fresh or used in various dishes. It is commonly incorporated into juices, smoothies, desserts, and salads. Its tangy flavor also complements savory dishes and sauces.

Houria is a Tunisian salad made with carrots, harissa, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, caraway seeds, and salt. The salad is inexpensive and very easy to prepare. The carrots should be boiled and then lightly smashed into a purée. The purée is then combined with all other ingredients, and the salad is typically garnished with finely chopped parsley on top. However, there are many versions of this dish, so it is not uncommon to see hard-boiled eggs, olives, crumbled feta cheese, or coriander in the salad, which is typically served as a side dish, but it can also be consumed on its own.

Germknödel is a famous Austrian steamed yeast dumpling. It consists of soft dough which is filled with rum-spiced plum jam. Before serving, the dumpling is generously doused with melted butter or vanilla-based sauce and sprinkled with a considerable amount of poppy seeds. Believed to have originated in the eastern or southern parts of Austria, this unique dessert is nowadays associated with the famous Austrian ski resorts, where it has become an irreplaceable winter staple. Even though germknödel is nowadays consumed as a dessert, this was not the case when it first appeared in Austrian cuisine. Like many other Austrian dishes such as buchteln and kaiserschmarrn, it was invented as the main dish meant to be eaten during Lent, when meat was usually avoided. This is the main reason why it is still served in an unusually large form. Germknödel should always be freshly prepared and served warm. In Slovakia and the Czech Republic, these soft steamed buns are known as parené buchty and buchty na páře. Apart from plum jam, they are occasionally filled with other fruit jams, sweetened fresh cheese, poppy seeds, or chocolate. 

Phanaeng curry is a variety of Thai curry that is characterized by a thick texture and salty-sweet peanut flavor. It consists of meat that is stewed with coconut milk, panang curry paste, makrut lime leaves, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The meat used in phanaeng curry is usually beef, chicken, duck, or pork, and the dish traditionally does not include any vegetables. The name of the dish is derived from the word panang, meaning cross, which refers to the ancient way of preparing chicken with its legs crossed and set in an upright position. Though the origins of phanaeng curry are somewhat murky, it is often associated with the Malaysian state of Penang, but there is little evidence to support this claim. However, the earliest known recipe is found in Maawm Sohm Jeen’s book Tam Raa Gap Khao, dating back to 1890. Once finished, the curry is garnished with thinly sliced makrut lime leaves and Thai spur chili slices, and a bit of coconut milk can be poured over the curry.

Italy’s most emblematic culinary creation, the genuine pizza Napoletana is made with just a few simple ingredients and prepared in only two variations – marinara, the basic Neapolitan pizza topped with a tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic and oregano, and margherita, which is topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves, a delicious combination whose colors are said to represent the Italian flag. The crust is very thin at the base, and the dough puffs up on the sides, which results in airy crust that should have typical charred 'leopard spots' if baked properly. The origins of this iconic Neapolitan dish can be traced to the early 1700s, when what we know today as pizza marinara was first described by Italian chef, writer, and philosopher Vincenzo Corrado in his treatise on the eating habits of the people of Naples. Almost 200 years later, in 1889, the premier Neapolitan master pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito added mozzarella to the mix and invented the margherita, which is now generally cited as the first modern pizza. Originally dubbed la pizza tricolore, Esposito’s creation is said to have been made in honor of and named after Margherita of Savoy, the Queen consort of the Kingdom of Italy, who was visiting Naples at the time. In 2010, as one of Italy’s most popular foods worldwide, pizza Napoletana was officially recognized by the European Union and granted the designation of Traditional Specialty Guaranteed. And remember, a good pizza Napoletana doesn't need any additions other than the designated toppings.

Dakos or ntakos is a traditional Cretan dish consisting of a dry barley rusk called paximadi that is topped with crumbled myzithra cheese, chopped ripe tomatoes, whole olives, capers, fresh oregano, and a few generous splashes of high-quality olive oil. It's recommended to use olive varieties such as Koroneiki, Lianes, or Tsounates. Myzithra cheese is traditionally used, and not feta, which is usually reserved for tourist restaurants. The rusk is often gently rubbed with a small piece of garlic and lightly sprinkled with sea salt. If available, kritamo (sea fennel) is also sometimes added to dakos. The dish is usually served as a meze or light dinner.

Tire köftesi refers to a special type of ground meat dish that originates from the Tire district of İzmir, Türkiye. Tire köftesi consists of minced meat (often lamb or a mix of beef and lamb), breadcrumbs or stale bread soaked in milk or water, onions, garlic, and various spices. One distinguishing feature is its soft and juicy texture, which is achieved through its specific mixture of ingredients and cooking method: they are often shallow-fried until they have a crispy exterior, then they might be simmered in a sauce or served directly. Tire köftesi is often served with sides like rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or fresh salads.

Moravska salata is a Serbian salad originating from Niš and Leskovac. The salad is made with a combination of leeks, tomatoes, roasted peppers, hot peppers, garlic, salt, and oil. The vegetables are chopped, seasoned with salt, and drizzled with oil. The combination is then mixed well and refrigerated before serving. Moravska salata is especially popular during the hot summer months. It can be served as an appetizer, a side dish accompanying grilled meat, and sometimes even as a main dish served with a piece of hard cheese and bread (for dipping) on the side.

In the late 1800s and the early 1900s, Neapolitan immigrants came to the USA in search of a better life. Shortly after, in 1943, their descendants, Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo had opened Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, serving a new variety of pizza in a deeper dish, with inverted layers of cheese, meat, and tomatoes, and a crunchy crust. No longer an immigrant tradition, Chicago-style deep dish pizza is now one of Chicago's cultural and culinary icons. The dish is not just popular in Chicago, but all over the world, and its popularity is evident in the fact that there is even a National Deep Dish Pizza Day, celebrated every year on April 5. Thick, hearty and crispy, Chicago-style deep dish is a cheesy and gooey treat for pizza lovers throughout the world.

Cozonac is a traditional type of sweet bread that is usually consumed during festive events such as Christmas and Easter. Although it visually looks like a loaf of bread, it is considered a cake, and is usually made with flour, sugar, milk, cocoa, eggs, nuts, and  sometimes raisins. In Bulgaria, the dish is commonly known as kozunak and it's only prepared for Easter. Even though it smells heavenly when it is taken out of the oven, the cake is traditionally served only when it's fully cooled. Cozonac is typically accompanied by a cup of warm coffee, tea, or milk.

The traditional Ukrainian paska–also known as kulich in Russia–is a sweet and fragrant Easter bread. This popular delicacy abounds in eggs and butter, and typically has a tall cylindrical shape with a rounded top. It is often enriched with citrus juice or zest, vanilla, rum, ginger, and occasionally saffron. Some varieties of paska also might include raisins, candied fruit, or maraschino cherries. In the past, the surface of the bread was commonly decorated with festive ornaments, usually roses or crosses, but modern versions are often brightened with pristine egg-white glaze, colorful sprinkles, or poppy seeds. Outside Ukraine and Russia, this type of bread is also commonly consumed in Georgia, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, and Slovakia. Paska is usually taken to church on Easter morning, where it is blessed, and later shared at home among family members.

The name and the size of Hessen Handkäse are both derived from its traditional manufacturing method, in which the cheese was molded by hand. Handkäse is a German regional sour milk cheese produced in Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Rheinhessen. It has a fat content of less than 1% and an impressive protein content of 25%. Hessen Handkäse is a delicious cheese with quite a pungent aroma, and it is usually served sprinkled with caraway seeds and topped with sliced onions. Traditionally, this cheese is served either plain or as 'Hessen Handkäse mit Musik', seasoned with salt and pepper and marinated with onions in oil and vinegar, occasionally with some water or a dash of cider or wine added to the marinade.

Ovcharska salata is a simple variation of the famous Shopska salata. Essentially, it is Shopska salata (cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cheese) with the addition of mushrooms, eggs, and ham. The salad is typically tossed with vegetable oil, left to rest for a few minutes, and it is then ready for consumption. It is especially popular in summer due to its refreshing flavors and the usage of seasonal vegetables.

Żurek is a traditional soup characterized by its distinctively sour taste, which comes from sour leavening, or the fermentation of bread and rye flour. The soup also contains meats such as sausages, bacon, or ham, and vegetables such as potatoes and mushrooms. Although it is extremely popular throughout Poland, each region has its own version of the dish. It is sometimes served in an edible bowl made of bread, when it is common to add halves of hard-boiled eggs on top of the soup as garnish. Żurek is traditionally prepared and consumed during Easter. There is a popular version of the soup called barszcz bialy, made with wheat flour instead of rye flour. The name żur is derived from the German word sur, or sauer, meaning sour, referring to the typical flavor of this popular, hearty soup.

Tagliatelle al ragù alla Bolognese is a traditional dish originating from Bologna, consisting of tagliatelle pasta and a rich ragù made with a mixture of minced beef and pork, and tomatoes as key ingredients. Even though they are often thought to be synonymous, tagliatelle al ragù—one of Bologna's signature dishes—bears little or no resemblance to the dish known as spaghetti Bolognese in the rest of the world. In fact, the world famous Italian ragù alla Bolognese meat sauce is never served with spaghetti in Bologna. Instead, when it isn't served over fresh tagliatelle, you will most often find it topping a bed of some other other ribbon-like pasta, such as fettuccine or pappardelle. Regardless of the type of pasta used, what makes or breaks this classic Emilian dish is the ragù itself. Experts nowadays tend to consider the recipe for ragù alla Bolognese registered by the Italian Academy of Cuisine in October 1982 the most authentic version. However, chances are that every restaurant and trattoria in Emilia Romagna dishes out its own version of tagliatelle al ragù, and each version is surely worth trying.

Hefekranz is a slightly sweet yeast bread that is shaped into a wreath, stuffed with raisins, and flavored with lemon zest. It is popular throughout Switzerland and Germany, especially at Easter and Christmas time, when it is traditionally prepared in numerous homes and bakeries across the country. The German version is known as hefezopf, and it is usually not shaped into a wreath, but braided. It is believed that the first hefekranz was made by the first Bakers' Union in Switzerland in 1256.

Kokoreç is a traditional dish that's also popular in other countries, especially in Greece, where it's known as kokoretsi. However, there are some differences between the Turkish and Greek versions. In Greek cuisine, people use lamb offal such as lungs, kidneys, hearts, and liver, and in Türkiye, they use small and large intestine and sweetbreads without any additional ingredients. For the Turkish version, kokoreç, the ingredients are rinsed and cleaned, then wrapped onto iron skewers to be grilled over charcoal. Once done, the dish is usually served with bread or tucked inside the bread with various spices such as oregano, cumin, and chili flakes. You can find this dish at street food vendors or in countless kokoreç restaurants.

Turkish ice cream is believed to originate from the city of Maraş—hence the name—and what really sets it apart from other varieties is its resistance to melting and a particularly dense, chewy texture. These qualities are brought by adding two thickening agents to the basic milk and sugar mixture: Arab gum, also known as mastic resin, and salep—a type of flour made from the root of the early purple orchid. In fact, in the Kahramanmaraş region, ice cream typically contains distinctly more salep than usual, which is why it is sometimes called kesme dondurma—from the Turkish kesmek, meaning to cut—which is the reason why this ice cream variety is usually eaten with a knife and fork. In Türkiye, ice cream is commonly sold in the streets but also in specialized dondurması shops, whose owners will often go out of their way by producing their own salep, apart from using exclusively natural flavorings and milk from goats fed only with thyme, orchid flowers, and milkvetch.

Fufu is a staple side dish made by pounding cassava and unripe plantains together with a big wooden pole and mashing them while adding water. As it needs to be vigorously stirred, it usually takes two people to make it - one pounding it, and the other moving it around between the pounding. Once the mixture is smooth, it gets shaped into small balls that are then placed in a stew or soup with meat. Similar to the Tanzanian ugali, an indentation is made in the ball, used for scooping up the sauce, with fufu acting as a spoon. The texture is quite gummy and stretchy, while the flavor is bland, but dipping it into a stew gives fufu a spicy flavor that is slightly reminiscent of peanuts. Just make sure not to eat with your left hand, as this is considered extremely disrespectful in many parts of Africa, because the left hand is used for toilet-related actions. This starchy side dish is an important accompaniment to various stews and sauce-based dishes, and it's regularly eaten throughout West and Central Africa.