29 Global Dishes and Drinks to Try Before You Die (or Travel the World)

Ready to take a trip around the world without leaving your kitchen? These 29 global dishes and drinks bring authentic flavors from across the globe straight to your table. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or refreshing, these recipes are must-tries before you think about booking a flight. Get ready to experience the world’s best flavors right from home.

Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti.
Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Spiced Cranberry Juice

Spiced Cranberry Juice. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Spiced cranberry juice mixes tart cranberries with warming fall spices, creating a drink you’ll want to try before your next trip to a fall festival. In just 10 minutes, the bold flavors combine sweet and tart, making it perfect for cozy evenings. The warmth from the spices is like wrapping yourself in a blanket. Sip this drink and feel like you’ve captured the essence of the season without ever leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Cranberry Juice

Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail

An iced beverage in a copper mug garnished with mint leaves, a lime slice, and blackberries sits on a marble surface. Nearby is a jar labeled with "BLACKB" containing a blackberry mixture. Loose blackberries are scattered around, creating an enticing scene that looks fresh off an auto draft.
Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This blackberry Moscow mule mocktail blends blackberries, ginger beer, and lime, giving you a global flavor trip without leaving your kitchen. In just 5 minutes, you can enjoy the sweet and spicy contrast that feels like sipping a favorite drink from a bustling European café. The juicy blackberries add a refreshing sweetness to the tangy lime and fiery ginger beer. It’s a perfect escape in a glass, no passport needed.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail

Gluten-Free Carrot Kugel

Gluten-Free Carrot Kugel. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

This gluten-free carrot kugel brings a taste of Jewish holiday traditions, one of those dishes you’ll want to experience before diving into travel. Ready in about 45 minutes, this kugel combines sweet carrots, cinnamon, and gluten-free flour into a satisfying dish. The warm spices complement the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a comforting bite. It’s like getting a taste of tradition without boarding a plane.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Carrot Kugel

Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon

Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Pomegranate glazed whole salmon gives you a flavorful taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, making it a must-try before booking a ticket. In 30 minutes, the pomegranate molasses and date honey glaze the flaky salmon, creating a sweet and tangy balance. The glaze caramelizes perfectly in the oven, offering a tender bite. This dish brings the flavors of the region straight to your table, no travel required.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon

The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake

Osyter bake casserole on table with linen and herbs.
The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The brunch oyster bake offers a rich coastal experience, perfect for those who crave a seaside brunch without the travel. In just 35 minutes, the briny oysters are paired with a creamy, seasoned topping that bakes to perfection. Each bite is a mix of tender seafood and crunchy texture, creating a balance of flavors. You’ll feel like you’re brunching at the beach, without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake

Fried Marinated Tofu

A bowl of soup with a spoon in it.
Fried Marinated Tofu. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Fried marinated tofu delivers a taste of Asian-inspired flavors, one of those global dishes you’ll want to try before your next adventure. In 30 minutes, this dish offers crispy tofu soaked in a flavorful marinade, perfect for adding to grain bowls, salads, or tacos. The tofu absorbs bold flavors like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, making each bite deliciously savory. You’ll feel like you’ve transported yourself to a plant-based restaurant without needing a plane ticket.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Hot and Sour Shredded Napa Cabbage Salad

Hot and Sour Shredded Napa Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Hot and sour shredded Napa cabbage salad serves up the bright, vibrant flavors of Asian street food, a dish you need to experience without leaving home. In just 15 minutes, crunchy Napa cabbage, carrots, and almonds are tossed with a tangy and spicy dressing. The refreshing vegetables paired with the zesty sauce deliver a light, yet satisfying bite. It’s like taking a quick trip to an Asian market, no flight required.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Shredded Napa Cabbage Salad

Baked Feta Dip with Honey, Dates, and Hazelnuts

Baked feta in blue casserole dish.
Baked Feta Dip with Honey, Dates, and Hazelnuts. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Baked feta dip with honey, dates, and hazelnuts brings the Mediterranean straight to you, offering a taste worth trying before your next trip to Greece. In about 25 minutes, the creamy, baked feta melts beautifully with the sweet dates and crunchy hazelnuts. The honey ties it all together with a subtle sweetness. This dip transports you to the Mediterranean coast without ever leaving your living room.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Dip with Honey, Dates, and Hazelnuts

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Side view of slice of moussaka.
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Greek vegetarian moussaka layers eggplant, zucchini, and béchamel to give you a taste of Greek island cuisine, no plane ticket necessary. In 45 minutes, this gluten-free dish bakes into a hearty meal that’s perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner. The savory vegetables pair with the creamy sauce for a comforting bite. It’s like enjoying a homemade meal in a Greek taverna, all from the comfort of your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs.
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Mediterranean white bean salad with feta offers a fresh, light dish that brings the flavors of sunny coasts straight to your table. In just 10 minutes, white beans, tomatoes, and tangy feta combine with a lemony dressing to make a refreshing meal. The creamy beans contrast perfectly with the salty feta. Every bite makes you feel like you’re dining al fresco by the Mediterranean, no passport needed.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Smoky Baba Ghanoush Without Tahini

Baba ganoush on a plate with parsley and lemon.
Smoky Baba Ghanoush Without Tahini. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Smoky baba ghanoush without tahini highlights the earthy, roasted eggplant flavor that’s a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine. In about 20 minutes, you can create this velvety dip that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies or pita bread. The smoky notes give it a rich depth without the need for tahini. It’s a simple dish that brings you a taste of the Middle East without the long flight.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush Without Tahini

Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti

Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti.
Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This breakfast rutabaga rosti delivers a taste of Scandinavian mornings, a dish worth experiencing before you cross that region off your travel bucket list. In about 25 minutes, crispy fried rutabaga gives you a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Its golden crunch pairs well with toppings, offering a hearty start to your day. One bite and you’ll feel like you’re dining in a cozy Nordic café.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Rutabaga Rosti

Classic Matzo Brei

Matzo brei on two plates with parsely.
Classic Matzo Brei. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Classic matzo brei gives you a taste of Jewish culinary tradition, one that’s worth experiencing even if you’re not traveling. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy the chewy, eggy goodness of fried matzah that’s versatile for any toppings. The crisp edges and soft center offer a satisfying contrast in texture. Each bite connects you to a rich tradition without the need for a passport.
Get the Recipe: Classic Matzo Brei

Tomato and Avocado Eggs Benedict

Meatless and Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Recipe with Avocado (Gluten free option!).
Tomato and Avocado Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Tomato and avocado eggs benedict brings a fresh, West Coast vibe to your brunch, making it one of those must-try dishes before you think about traveling. In just 20 minutes, creamy avocado and ripe tomatoes replace the traditional ham, adding a light twist. The poached eggs offer a rich contrast to the bright, fresh ingredients. It’s like enjoying a California café breakfast, without ever leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Tomato and Avocado Eggs Benedict

Fluffy Pumpkin Protein Waffles with Chocolate Sauce

Fluffy Pumpkin Protein Waffles with Chocolate Sauce (17g Protein Per Waffle!).
Fluffy Pumpkin Protein Waffles with Chocolate Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Fluffy pumpkin protein waffles with chocolate sauce are a perfect taste of autumn festivals, right in your kitchen. In about 30 minutes, the warm spices from the pumpkin combine with rich, velvety chocolate sauce for a treat that feels festive. The crisp exterior and soft interior make each bite satisfying. It’s like experiencing fall flavors from around the world without having to travel.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Protein Waffles with Chocolate Sauce

Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains

A plate of fried bananas on a marble table.
Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Fried ripe sweet plantains give you a taste of the Caribbean, offering tropical sweetness you’ll want to try before booking a trip. In just 15 minutes, these caramelized plantains deliver a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet center. Their rich flavor pairs perfectly with savory or sweet dishes. Each bite transports you to a sun-soaked island, no plane required.
Get the Recipe: Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains

Green Shakshuka

A skillet with eggs, spinach and pomegranate.
Green Shakshuka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Green shakshuka blends fresh greens and poached eggs, offering Mediterranean flavors you’ll want to experience before you travel. In about 30 minutes, spinach and kale combine with spices to create a light, healthy meal. The runny yolks mix perfectly with the greens for a satisfying bite. This dish brings the warmth and brightness of a Mediterranean morning to your table, no passport necessary.
Get the Recipe: Green Shakshuka

Breakfast Potato Latkes

A plate topped with a fried egg and greens.
Breakfast Potato Latkes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Breakfast potato latkes are crispy, savory pancakes that give you a taste of Eastern European breakfasts, no travel required. In about 30 minutes, these golden latkes offer the perfect mix of crunch and softness, topped with eggs, kale, or tomatoes. The simple yet satisfying flavors make this dish a hearty morning meal. Each bite transports you to a local breakfast spot, without the need to leave home.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potato Latkes

French Toast Bake

A pan of French toast bake.
French Toast Bake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

French toast bake offers a sweet, comforting dish that feels like a nostalgic breakfast you’ll want to try before jet-setting to a fancy brunch spot. With just 15 minutes of prep, this custard-soaked bread bakes into a golden, indulgent delight perfect for gatherings. Each bite is rich and satisfying, capturing the essence of special occasions. It’s like bringing a cozy café experience to your kitchen, no travel required.
Get the Recipe: French Toast Bake

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail delivers a visually stunning drink that you have to experience before traveling to exotic lands. In just 5 minutes, this vibrant mocktail changes color from blue to purple when mixed with citrus, offering a fun, interactive drink. Its floral and tangy flavors are refreshing and unique. Enjoy a sip of this mocktail and feel like you’re part of an exciting adventure without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail

Eggplant Shakshuka

Eggplant shakshuka in pan.
Eggplant Shakshuka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Eggplant shakshuka gives you a hearty taste of the Middle East, a dish worth trying before booking a flight to the region. In around 40 minutes, tender eggplant and a spiced tomato sauce are topped with poached eggs for a satisfying meal. The combination of savory flavors pairs perfectly with crusty bread. This dish transports you to a bustling café, no passport required.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Shakshuka

Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Overhead view of a croissant breakfast casserole in a skillet ready to be baked.
Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Croissant breakfast casserole offers a rich, buttery taste of French elegance, a must-try before thinking about a trip to Paris. In just 15 minutes of prep, the layers of croissants, creamy eggs, and melted cheese bake into a luxurious, custardy breakfast. Each bite brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s a simple way to bring a little Parisian magic to your morning, without the jet lag.
Get the Recipe: Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Russian Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Russian raisin pancakes.
Russian Cottage Cheese Pancakes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian cottage cheese pancakes, also known as syrniki, are a comforting breakfast worth experiencing before diving into Russian culinary traditions. In just 20 minutes, these soft and fluffy pancakes pair beautifully with jam or fresh berries. The lightly crisp exterior gives way to a rich, creamy center. It’s like sharing a cozy morning with a Russian family, all from the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Russian Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Delicious Blue Hawaiian Mocktail

Delicious Blue Hawaiian Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

The Delicious Blue Hawaiian Mocktail gives you a tropical escape in a glass, a must-try before setting off on an island adventure. Ready in just 5 minutes, this bright blue drink blends coconut and fruit juices for a refreshing, sweet experience. The creamy coconut and tart pineapple strike the perfect balance. Sip this and feel the island vibes roll in, no plane ticket needed.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Blue Hawaiian Mocktail

Sparkling Passionfruit Mocktail Spritz

Sparkling Passionfruit Mocktail Spritz. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

The Sparkling Passionfruit Mocktail Spritz brings a burst of tropical flavors to your drink list, something you’ll want to try before packing for your next getaway. In just 5 minutes, fresh passion fruit puree, lime juice, and sparkling non-alcoholic wine create a fizzy, refreshing drink. The combination of tart and sweet flavors makes it perfect for any occasion. It’s like sipping on sunshine, without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Sparkling Passionfruit Mocktail Spritz

Tropical Overnight Oats

Four combinations of vegan overnight oats with fruit.
Tropical Overnight Oats. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Tropical overnight oats give you a refreshing start to your day, offering tropical flavors worth experiencing before booking that beach vacation. With just 10 minutes of prep the night before, you wake up to a creamy mix of mango, pineapple, and coconut. The coconut milk and chia seeds add a satisfying texture. Each spoonful feels like a trip to the tropics, right from your breakfast bowl.
Get the Recipe: Tropical Overnight Oats

Frozen Mudslide Mocktail

Frozen Mudslide Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

The Frozen Mudslide Mocktail offers all the indulgent, creamy flavors of the classic, without the alcohol, making it a must-try before planning a trip to your favorite dessert spot. In just minutes, ice cream, chocolate syrup, and coffee flavors come together for a rich frozen treat. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with no regrets. This dessert-like drink makes you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special, no trip required.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Mudslide Mocktail

Crunchy Baked Breakfast Granola with Pumpkin Seeds

A baking sheet of pumpkin spice granola.
Crunchy Baked Breakfast Granola with Pumpkin Seeds. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Crunchy baked breakfast granola with pumpkin seeds brings wholesome, trendy café vibes to your morning routine, a dish worth trying before your next health-conscious retreat. In 30 minutes, oats, nuts, and seeds bake into a satisfying, crunchy granola. The pumpkin seeds add a nutty flavor, making it great for yogurt toppings or as a snack. Each bite gives you the feeling of enjoying breakfast at a cozy, health-forward café.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Baked Breakfast Granola with Pumpkin Seeds

Irish Boxty Potato Pancakes

Irish Boxty Potato Pancakes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Irish boxty potato pancakes bring the hearty, comforting flavors of the Irish countryside to your breakfast, a dish you’ll want to try before dreaming of a trip to Ireland. In about 30 minutes, grated potatoes crisp up into delicious pancakes that are perfect for any toppings. The mild, savory flavor allows for versatility in pairing. Each bite gives you the warmth of a traditional Irish kitchen, no plane ticket necessary.
Get the Recipe: Irish Boxty Potato Pancakes

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