Every city in the world offers a range of culinary delights, but some cities are best known for one particular dish. Whether the dishes originated there or were perfected by locals, they have become strongly associated with that place, cementing them in the country’s culture. Let’s take a look at ten cities around the world and their signature dishes.
Marseille – Bouillabaisse
Originating in Marseille, this one-pot seafood dish is made with fish, vegetables and a broth infused with saffron, fennel and orange zest. Bony rockfish such as rascasse – which the fishermen couldn’t sell – were traditionally used, but today a range of fish, from cod to monkfish, is used.
Naples – Pizza Margherita
Modern pizza evolved from various flatbread dishes that were popular across the Mediterranean, and Naples is the home of pizza margherita. Made with a soft, thin, airy dough, it’s topped with tomatoes, mozzarella and fresh basil, and cooked in a wood fired oven.
Jaipur – Laal Maas
This fiery meat curry is famous for its bright red colour and hot spices, particularly the Mathania red chilli. It was a dish traditionally enjoyed by royalty and made with game, but is now often prepared with mutton or goat.
Kuala Lumpa – Nasi Lemak
A breakfast dish made with rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, nasi lemak is typically served with sambal belacan, a paste made from fresh red chillies, fermented shrimp paste and lime juice. It’s often accompanied by anchovies, eggs, fresh cucumber and nuts.
Prague – Svíčková
No trip to Prague is complete without a taste of svíčková (sveech-koh-vah). The hearty dish consists of marinated, braised beef sirloin served in a rich vegetable sauce made from carrots, parsnips, celeriac and cream.
Copenhagen – Smørrebrød
A great lunch option, smørrebrød is a traditional open sandwich made with dense rye bread traditionally topped with fish or beef, onions or pickles and fresh herbs.
Shanghai – Xiaolongbao
Shanghai is perhaps most famous for xiaolongbao (shau-long-bau) or soup dumplings. Minced pork and a flavourful hot soup are encased in a delicate wrapper, which bursts in the mouth creating a taste sensation. They’re typically served with vinegar and ginger for dipping.
Dhaka – Kacchi biryani
Dhaka is the modern home of Kacchi biryani, a layered dish of partially boiled rice, potatoes, marinated raw meat and spices that are cooked together in a clay oven. The low heat ensures tender, succulent meat and delicious flavours. You’ll find the authentic taste of biryani at Little India, the best restaurant in Kensington for those looking to try dishes from the Indian subcontinent.
Lima – Ceviche
A light, refreshing dish often served for lunch, ceviche consists of raw fish (traditionally white fish such as sea bass) or seafood that has been marinated in lime or bitter orange. It’s served with onion, chillies and fresh coriander.
Kampala – Matooke
Matooke is widely eaten across Uganda, and you’ll find it readily available in its capital, Kampala. The dish is served as a main or side, and is made from starchy green bananas that are steamed or boiled in banana leaves until soft. It can be mashed with butter or mixed with nuts or beans to make a sauce.
If you’re looking for the best restaurant in Kensington, London for authentic Indian food, book a table at Little India. We have a menu packed with traditional dishes and British-Indian favourites, all made with the finest ingredients. Browse our menu online or visit us today for exceptional Indian cuisine in London.
