Will we get good food when we travel?

Published in the Sunday Mumbai Samachar on 28 July, 2024

The product team at Veena World, just launched two incredible new tours: Iceland Northern Lights (9 days) all-inclusive (including airfare) at Indian Rupees 450000 plus taxes (departures: 5 & 15 October) and Dubai Abu Dhabi all-inclusive (including airfare) starting at Indian Rupees 75000 plus taxes with 13 departures spread across August, September & October. When we launch these products, a lot of research goes into these, and one of the things that we always think about is food. Will we get great food at these destinations? And I’m sure many of you reading this will also think like me.

So today, I want to talk about food. And let me warn you, this article might get a little too list-like, but bear with me, because I’m trying to list down all of my wife Heta and my favourite foods from around the world.

Europe

Iceland: Skyr, Rye Bread, and Root Vegetable Stew

Iceland may be known for its rugged landscapes and Viking history, but its cuisine also offers delightful surprises. Skyr, a thick and creamy yogurt-like dairy product, is a staple in Icelandic cuisine. Pair it with sweet berries for a refreshing treat. Traditional Icelandic rye bread, baked slowly in geothermal steam, is perfect with butter or local cheese.

Italy: Caprese Salad, Panzanella, and Risotto

When it comes to Italy, of course all of use talk about the Pizza and Pasta. But today I wanted to go a little beyond that. So here is our list. Caprese salad, with its simple yet elegant combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Panzanella, a Tuscan bread salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, is a great bread salad. Risotto, a creamy rice dish that can be customized with various vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or saffron, is a must-try for any food lover. I personally like it with a hint of truffle oil too!

Spain: Gazpacho, Patatas Bravas

Gazpacho, a cold tomato soup with cucumbers, peppers, and garlic, is refreshing and healthy. Patatas Bravas, crispy fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce, is a popular tapa that packs a punch. There's another must-try dish: Pisto. This traditional Spanish ratatouille, made with sautéed vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and onions, is often seasoned with garlic and olive oil. Pisto can be enjoyed on its own, served with crusty bread for an extra touch of richness.

Asia

Japan: Vegetarian Sushi, Tempura & Okonomiyaki

Vegetarian sushi, made with fresh vegetables like avocado, cucumber, and pickled radish, is both visually appealing and delicious. Tempura, lightly battered and fried vegetables, provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. Okonomiyaki: This savoury pancake, often referred to as Japanese pizza, is made from a batter of flour, grated yam, and water, mixed with shredded cabbage and other vegetables. It is cooked on a griddle and typically topped with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise.

Thailand: Green Papaya Salad, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum Soup

Green Papaya Salad, a refreshing mix of shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, and peanuts, is a perfect starter. Pad Thai, a popular stir-fried noodle dish, is my personal favourite which can be made with tofu and a variety of vegetables. And how can we miss out, Tom Yum Soup, a hot and sour broth with mushrooms, lemongrass, and lime leaves, which is both invigorating and comforting.

Middle East

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Falafel, Hummus, and Shakshuka

Falafel, deep-fried chickpea balls, are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, is perfect for dipping with fresh pita bread. Shakshuka, a savory dish of poached eggs (for those who have eggs) in a spiced tomato sauce, is a hearty and satisfying meal enjoyed across the Middle East.

Lebanon: Tabbouleh, Baba Ganoush, and Manakish

Tabbouleh, a salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, is light and refreshing. Baba Ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip, is rich and creamy. Manakish, a flatbread topped with za'atar and olive oil, is a popular breakfast item that pairs wonderfully with a cup of mint tea.

The Americas

Mexico: Chiles Rellenos, Guacamole, and Elote

Chiles Rellenos, stuffed peppers filled with cheese or beans, are a delightful combination of smoky and spicy. Guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime, and cilantro, is a beloved dip enjoyed with tortilla chips. Elote, grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder, is a street food favorite.

Peru: Quinoa Salad, Causa, and Rocoto Relleno

Quinoa Salad, with its nutty flavour and high protein content, is both nutritious and delicious. Causa, a layered dish made with mashed potatoes and various fillings like avocado and vegetables, is a unique and satisfying meal. Rocoto Relleno, spicy stuffed peppers, offers a fiery kick that adventurous eaters will love.

Africa

Morocco: Vegetable Tagine, Couscous, and Harira

Vegetable Tagine, a slow-cooked stew with a variety of vegetables and spices, is a staple in Moroccan households. Couscous, steamed semolina grains, is often served with vegetables and a flavourful broth. Harira, a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, is traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan in Morocco.

Ethiopia: Injera with Misir Wot, Shiro, and Gomen

Ethiopian cuisine offers a unique and communal dining experience. Injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, is used to scoop up various stews and salads. Misir Wot, a spicy lentil stew, is rich and flavourful. Shiro, a chickpea flour stew, is smooth and comforting. Gomen, sautéed collard greens, adds a nutritious and tasty element to the meal.

Oceania

Australia: Avocado Toast, Vegemite on Toast, and Beetroot Salad

Australian cuisine has a laid-back and fresh approach to food. Avocado toast, topped with various toppings like tomatoes or feta, is a breakfast favorite. Vegemite on toast, a salty yeast extract spread, is an iconic Australian snack. Beetroot salad, often paired with goat cheese and walnuts, is a vibrant and healthy option.

New Zealand: Kumara (Sweet Potato) Salad, Pumpkin Soup, and Vegetarian Pies

New Zealand's cuisine is influenced by its natural bounty. Kumara salad, made with roasted sweet potatoes, is both sweet and savory. Pumpkin soup, rich and creamy, is a comforting dish enjoyed throughout the year. Vegetarian pies, filled with mushrooms, spinach, or cheese, are a popular choice in bakeries and cafes.

All in all, my take is that exploring cuisine from around the world is a delightful journey that showcases the creativity and diversity of every country’s foods. Whether you're travelling to new destinations or experimenting in your own kitchen, these foods offer a taste of different cultures and traditions.

So, what are you going to try next? I would love to know, so write to me at neil@veenaworld.com and until next time, as we always say at Veena World, keep Celebrating Life!