Street food – the culinary delight that brings people together from all corners of the globe. A flavor explosion in every bite, a sensory experience that transcends borders and cultures. And what better way to bring this magic to your own kitchen than with these 20 delectable street food recipes? From spicy Thai chicken satay skewers to crispy Korean kimchi pancakes, each dish is a masterclass in flavors and textures.
Whether you’re a foodie looking for inspiration or just a curious cook wanting to try something new, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of international street food recipes will take you on a gastronomic journey across continents, introducing you to bold spices, exotic ingredients, and cooking techniques that will leave your taste buds dancing.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of street food and get cooking!
Spicy Thai Chicken Satay Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with these spicy chicken satay skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or appetizer. Marinated in a mixture of coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes, these skewers are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Korean Kimchi Pancakes
Crispy Korean Kimchi Pancakes Recipe
Get ready to spice up your breakfast or brunch game with these crispy and flavorful kimchi pancakes! This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the simplicity of a classic pancake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chopped kimchi, egg, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter into the pan. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes you make)
Authentic Mexican Street Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe for classic street-style tacos. With just a few ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll be enjoying delicious, authentic tacos like they’re meant to be enjoyed – on the streets of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or alternative protein of your choice)
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and queso fresco or shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, chopped jalapeño, and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the taco seasoning packet (or homemade blend) to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious, authentic Mexican Street Tacos!
Indian Pani Puri with Tangy Tamarind Chutney
Pani puri, also known as golgappas or puchkas, is a popular Indian street food that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. When paired with a tangy tamarind chutney, it’s a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 100 g boiled and mashed potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tamarind paste (see note)
– Green chutney (optional)
– Chat masala powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix together the mashed potatoes, flour, cumin seeds, and salt.
2. Shape into small balls and fry in hot oil until golden brown.
3. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
4. Soak tamarind paste in water to make a tangy chutney (see note).
5. Assemble pani puris by filling fried dough with mashed potatoes, green chutney (if using), and a dollop of tamarind chutney.
6. Sprinkle chat masala powder (if using) for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: To make tamarind paste, soak 1 cup of tamarind in 2 cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Strain the mixture and use the resulting liquid as the chutney base.
Vietnamese Banh Mi Sandwich with Pickled Vegetables
Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this iconic sandwich, featuring crispy baguette, savory meats, and tangy pickled vegetables. This recipe is a perfect blend of texture and taste.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Vietnamese-style banh mi baguettes
– 1/2 pound grilled pork or chicken (or both), sliced
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish (see below)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chili flakes, jalapeños, or sriracha for added spice
Pickled Vegetables:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced daikon radish
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Grill pork or chicken, if using.
2. Slice the baguette in half and toast until crispy.
3. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of the baguette.
4. Add sliced meats, pickled vegetables, cucumber, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with the remaining baguette half.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including grilling time)
Japanese Takoyaki Octopus Balls
Experience the flavors of Japan with this popular street food: crispy takoyaki balls filled with tender octopus, green onion, and tempura bits. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a fun snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup takoyaki batter mix (available at Asian markets)
– 1/2 cup diced octopus (or substitute with firm tofu or vegetables)
– 1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup tempura bits
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, water, salt, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add takoyaki batter mix and mix until well combined.
3. Heat a takoyaki pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Place a few pieces of octopus, green onion, and tempura bits in the center of the pancake.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkish Doner Kebab Wraps
Experience the flavors of Istanbul with these mouthwatering doner kebab wraps, made with tender lamb and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound thinly sliced lamb or beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed greens (parsley, dill, mint)
• 4 pita breads
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges and tahini sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb slices.
4. Grill the lamb for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble the wraps by spreading mixed greens on each pita, followed by sliced grilled lamb, onion, and a sprinkle of salt.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and tahini sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the classic flavors of Greece with this simple recipe that combines juicy souvlaki skewers with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the Souvlaki:
– 500g pork or chicken skewers (your choice)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
– 250g Greek yogurt
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add skewers and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, onion, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve souvlaki hot with tzatziki sauce on the side. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indonesian Nasi Goreng Fried Rice
A classic Indonesian dish, Nasi Goreng is a flavorful fried rice recipe that’s quick to make and packed with spices. This version combines the traditional ingredients with some modern twists for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan; add beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables, then add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Stir-fry everything together, breaking up any clumps, until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering recipe that combines spicy jerk chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce.
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, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve jerk chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Dessert
This classic Thai dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and creamy, with the freshness of mango and the stickiness of glutinous rice. This simple recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 ripe mango, sliced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice with 2 cups of fresh water until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is sticky.
3. In a separate pan, heat the sugar and coconut milk over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Combine the cooked rice and sugar-coconut mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve the sticky rice warm or at room temperature with sliced mango and a drizzle of sesame oil (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers
A classic Filipino street food favorite, these tender pork skewers are marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup mixed vinegar (apple cider, white wine, and palm sap)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Bamboo skewers or metal sticks
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork cubes, mixed vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated pork onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with steamed rice and your favorite Filipino side dishes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brazilian Coxinha Chicken Croquettes
Coxinha is a popular Brazilian street food that typically consists of crispy fried dough filled with shredded chicken. In this recipe, we’re giving the classic a twist by adding creamy mashed potatoes and spices to create a flavorful and crunchy chicken croquette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili flakes for added color and heat
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small cylinders (about 1-inch long).
5. Fry the croquettes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lamb Kebabs
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with these aromatic lamb kebabs, infused with a blend of spices and herbs. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and black pepper, if desired.
5. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving small space between each piece.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Peruvian Ceviche with Sweet Potato
This Peruvian-inspired ceviche combines the traditional lime-marinated fish with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a unique and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as tilapia or sea bass), cut into small pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 teaspoon aji amarillo pepper paste (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and let them cool.
3. Once the fish is done marinating, add diced sweet potatoes, red onion, garlic, and aji amarillo pepper paste (if using) to the bowl.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Malaysian Char Kway Teow Stir-Fried Noodles
Char Kway Teow is a popular Malaysian stir-fry dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, pork, vegetables, and soy sauce. This recipe combines the flavors of dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili peppers to create a savory and slightly spicy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 200g flat rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 slices pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon chili peppers, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add prawns, pork, and mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili peppers; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the stir-fry mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Colombian Arepas with Cheese and Avocado
Arepas are a staple in Colombian cuisine, and adding melted cheese and creamy avocado takes them to the next level. This simple recipe combines the crispy cornmeal flatbread with gooey cheese and rich avocado for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of arepa flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 cup of grated queso fresco (or mozzarella) cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional: butter, garlic powder, or chives for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Mix the arepa flour and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water to form a dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly.
5. Cook the arepas for about 4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Butter the cooked arepas with melted butter, if desired.
7. Assemble the arepas by placing cheese, avocado slices, and any additional toppings (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes for the arepas to cook, plus assembly time.
Egyptian Hawawshi Spiced Meat Pies
Hawawshi pies are a popular street food in Egypt and other parts of the Middle East, filled with flavorful spiced meat and onions. This recipe brings the authentic taste of these pies to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lebanese Falafel with Tahini Sauce
This classic Middle Eastern recipe combines crispy, flavorful falafel patties with a creamy and tangy tahini sauce. Perfect as a snack or main course, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tahini sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup tahini, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, 2 cloves garlic, minced, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chickpeas, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape mixture into small patties.
4. Fry falafel for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Drain and serve hot with tahini sauce.
Tahini Sauce:
1. Blend tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Serve sauce chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic Spanish dessert featuring crispy, sugary churros served with a rich and creamy chocolate dipping sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
– Chocolate dipping sauce ingredients (see below)
Chocolate Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Pipe or drop the dough into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Drain churros on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
6. For the chocolate dipping sauce, melt butter and chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until combined.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
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