Table of Contents
Introduction
In my quest to see the world. I’ve also developed a deep desire to explore cultures through their food. So many countries that surprised me with their food culture. I’ve tasted everything. From the citrusy zing of ceviche in Peru. To the aromatic spices of Moroccan tagines, and even the salty, spicy punch of Nigerian suya. I have been open to it all. And I really do mean all. I’ve even tried cuy (guinea pig) in Peru, snake in Vietnam, and even crocodile in the Philippines.
Trust me, when I travel, tasting the local cuisine is part of the mission. My fellow travellers, friends, and loved ones all know this about me, too.
I guess I have become the travel foodie indeed.
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Now, What Is A Travel Foodie?
A travel foodie is someone who travels for the food. They explore the world to try the local dishes. When they are planning their travels, they will have a list of dishes they must try while in that country. But today’s post isn’t just about that. Today I want to share five countries that truly surprised me with their food culture.
Related post – Why I Love Travelling for Food (And You Should Too)
5 Countries That Surprised Me with Their Food Culture
Morocco
I’d always heard Moroccan food was spicy. But what stood out to me wasn’t the heat or spice. It was the layers of flavour and incredible aromas. From chicken tagines to couscous, the food was full of depth, and the smell alone was unforgettable.
Kenya
Kenya absolutely blew me away with its range of flavours. The food culture is truly mindblowing. From street-side smokies dipped in spicy kachumbari, to hearty plates of ugali served with tender goat meat (yes, with the fat the best part!), every bite felt like comfort food with a story. And don’t get me started on the fresh fried fish, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, eaten with your hands just the way locals do. Kenyan food is bold, filling, hints of spice and unapologetically flavourful, reminding you that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying.
Peru
Absolutely blew me away with its range of flavours. From lomo saltado to pollo a la brasa and the world-famous ceviche, every dish offered something different. I was especially impressed by the freshness that the ceviche left my palate feeling light and clean, but still packed a citrusy punch. Peru is a country that knows how to balance flavour, texture, and tradition. You can have the famous ceviche at Morena Peruvian Kitchen Restaurant and I have done a review, which you can read through here.
Malaysia
Oh wow! Malaysia was a true feast. While living in Singapore and Malaysia, I was able to eat to my heart content because my closest friend’s mum owns restaurants in Malaysia. One of my standout moments was eating chilli crab with my hands. That tactile experience connected me with the locals and the food in a deeper way. I also had nasi lemak, one of their national dishes, and honestly, the combination of spice, creaminess, and crunch was just perfect. Malaysia reminded me that food is not just about taste it’s about how you eat it too.
Albania
Albania really surprised me, the Mediterranean influence was strong, and I loved it. From hearty spaghetti bolognese to fresh pistachio pastries and flavoursome salads. The food felt clean, light, and deeply satisfying. Everything tasted like it had just been picked and prepared with care. It’s a hidden gem for foodies who want something a little different.
India
Now this is a country that takes spice seriously! From the rich chicken curries to aromatic biryani, I was constantly impressed by how bold and complex the flavours were. You really have to be ready for the heat, but once you are. The food is divine. The food in India is not just a meal; it’s an experience that awakens every sense. If you love spice, this is your paradise.
What’s inside the Taste the World eBook?
- ✔️ 59 pages of foodie travel tips
- ✔️ Sample itineraries by region
- ✔️ Cooking class & market tips
- ✔️ Cultural insights from 10+ years of travel
Want to turn your next trip into a food lover’s adventure?
Final Views
Travelling for food has been one of the most joyful and meaningful parts of my journey. I can’t believe the event like COVID-19 brought me out of my shell. To really try and experience cooking classes, food tours and seeking out new dishes. I guess everything truly does happen for a reason. Because travelling for food or being a travel foodie is what makes travelling so much more enjoyable for me. You can fall in love with a dish you’ve never tried before, and that’s the beauty of travelling for food.
Thanks for following along on my foodie escapades through countries that surprised me. I hope some of these dishes resonated with you, or even inspired your next culinary adventure.
As always, speak soon,
MBV x
