You may be surprised to learn that there are more than 2,000 different types of street food around the world. While most street foods are prepared on-site, there are some exceptions. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences in dishes, beverages, origins, and health benefits of street food. After reading this article, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect street food to satisfy your cravings. So, what are some of the best dishes available in different countries?
Dishes
When you travel to Colombia, you won’t want to miss the famous arepas. Made of dough made from ground maize, these sweet snacks are a staple of the country’s cuisine. Eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner, arepas are a delicious and nutritious option. Try them with a variety of toppings, from avocado and tomato to grilled onion, scallions and even quail eggs. There are several regional variations of these tasty snacks.
Beverages
Street food is prepared and sold by hawkers and vendors in public areas. Street foods are a significant source of income for millions of low and middle-income individuals, and often represent the lowest-cost and most accessible form of a nutritionally balanced meal. Because of their unhygienic conditions and lack of sanitation and garbage disposal facilities, street foods pose a serious risk for food poisoning and other health risks. In addition, street food preparation is often done by people with limited training and skills, and there is a high potential for contamination through adulteration and microbial contamination.
Origins
The history of street food is quite fascinating and reveals the evolution of this form of street food. Its origins date back to ancient Greece, where the street vendors sold tiny fried fish. In ancient China, street food dates back to the 14th century, where it was enjoyed by rich and poor alike. The same purpose has been served by street foods for centuries. In the West, the idea of street food has been perpetuated by the proliferation of food trucks.
Health benefits
Consuming street food can improve our health and overall wellbeing. A new study published in the Journal of Human Sciences details some of these benefits. The article also suggests that eating street food may have a beneficial impact on the brain and overall health. So what should we be looking for? Here are some tips for eating street food responsibly:
Transparency
When visiting Vietnam, one of the best ways to experience the food scene is to visit the market. These open-air markets play an important role in daily life and provide a unique insight into the ingredients and cooking processes of street food. Here, one can try delicious street food treats like nom banh chok, a thin rice noodle dish served with fish gravy and foraged greens. Nom kachai, a fried rice-flour cake with chives, is another must-try.