Thrillseekers' 3 - World Cuisines

By Taylor Cassar

When it comes to eating, most women tend to take the safe route and stick with what they know, but what if someone who had the culinary knowledge of Jamie Oliver took you out to show you the beauty of world cuisine? Would you be willing to take the leap and try everything?

I’m a firm believer that you’re allowed to find certain foods undesirable, so as long as you try them first. And the following world cuisines will give your palate a party like it has never known. Make it a point to try these world cuisines this week.

World cuisines #1
Ethiopian
Consisting mainly of vegetables and meat side dishes, Ethiopian food is known for its spiciness and the fact that it is eaten with injera, an unleavened sourdough flatbread. Although it’s not usually good manners to eat with the hands, it is Ethiopian tradition to do so (with the right hand). Free of pork and offering up a variety of cuisines (wot, tibs, kitfo and breakfast foods), make sure to get a taste of everything when you head to an Ethipian restaurant. As for drinks, try the tej, a sweet honey wine.

What to try: Doro Wot (chicken curry stew)


World cuisines #2
Indian
Rich in spices and herbs, Indian cuisine has a pungent odor but is delectable and sophisticated when it comes to flavor. Staples of Indian food include rice, legumes and atta (whole wheat flour). North Indian cuisine uses a lot of dairy; South Indian cuisine leans more toward rice, and; Western Indian cuisine involves more of a fusion offering, including its staple dish, Chicken Tikka. As with Ethiopian food, eating with the right hand is part of the Indian dining tradition. Take it all down with some palm wine or Darjeeling tea.

What to try: Chicken Tikka Masala


World cuisines #3
Greek
With olive oil as its staple, Greek food is considered one of the healthiest. With a preference toward goat and sheep over cow, and plenty of grilled fish, Greek food offers up a whole lot more than the souvlaki you’ve heard about. Rich in salads, cheeses (feta is the most famous), and, of course, olive oil, Greek food is simple and easy to enjoy. As well, it isn’t usually difficult to decipher what’s on your plate since you’re familiar with most of the ingredients used. Before you leave, you have to try some Ouzo (anise flavored liquor) and, for dessert, the sweet honey and nut baklava.

What to try: Pikilia is an appetizer that offers up a bit of many Greek dishes including Tzatziki (a yogurt spread), Taramosalata (a fish roe spread), Dolmades (rice wrapped in grape leaves), and Tyropita (phyllo dough with cheese).