10 Popular Street Foods You’ve Probably Never Tried

Street food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that varies from one corner of the globe to another. While many of us are familiar with popular street foods like tacos, kebabs, or hot dogs, there’s a world of undiscovered culinary gems waiting to be explored. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey and uncover 10 popular street foods that might be unfamiliar but are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

1. Banh Mi (Vietnam)

Originating from Vietnam, Banh Mi is a delightful fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors. A crispy baguette filled with savory ingredients such as grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes.

2. Arepa (Venezuela and Colombia)

Arepas are a staple of Venezuelan and Colombian street food. These cornmeal patties are grilled or baked and can be filled with an array of ingredients, from cheese and avocado to shredded beef or chicken.

3. Pani Puri (India)

Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa, is a beloved Indian street food. These small, hollow puris are filled with a spicy and tangy mixture of tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite.

4. Jianbing (China)

A popular breakfast street food in China, Jianbing is a savory crepe made from a batter of wheat and grain flour. It’s typically filled with egg, crispy fried wonton, scallions, and a sweet and savory sauce, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.

5. Burek (Balkans)

Burek is a flaky pastry that hails from the Balkans. Filled with a variety of ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, or spinach, this savory treat showcases the diverse culinary influences in the region.

6. Takoyaki (Japan)

Originating from Osaka, Takoyaki are savory, bite-sized balls filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions. Topped with savory sauce and bonito flakes, it’s a Japanese street food favorite.

7. Chimichanga (Mexico)

While Mexican cuisine is celebrated globally, the Chimichanga might still be a hidden gem for some. This deep-fried burrito, often filled with shredded meat, beans, and cheese, is a flavorful twist on traditional Mexican fare.

8. Koshari (Egypt)

Koshari is a hearty and filling Egyptian street food dish that combines lentils, rice, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Its diverse flavors and textures make it a true comfort food.

9. Arepas de Huevo (Colombia)

Arepas de Huevo are a Colombian street food specialty where corn dough is filled with an entire egg and then deep-fried until crispy. The result is a deliciously satisfying combination of textures.

10. Okonomiyaki (Japan)

Hailing from Japan, Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with various ingredients such as cabbage, meat, and seafood. Topped with a rich, tangy sauce and mayo, it’s a delightful fusion of flavors.