From the bustling street food stalls of Southeast Asia to the refined elegance of French gastronomy, the world is a veritable feast of flavors waiting to be explored. It’s a culinary playground offering a kaleidoscope of aromas, textures, and tastes. By venturing into the diverse cuisines of different cultures, we not only satisfy our taste buds but also gain a deeper understanding of global traditions and stories. To truly experience the world, we must continue to savor its culinary treasures.
What Shapes a Country’s Cuisine?
A cuisine is more than just food—it’s a reflection of geography, history, and culture. Here are a few key factors that influence a country’s culinary identity:
Climate & Terrain: The availability of local ingredients plays a major role. Coastal regions boast fresh seafood, while fertile plains provide grains and vegetables. Arid climates often yield drought-resistant crops and rely heavily on spices for flavor.
Trade Routes: Historical trade networks have helped shape cuisines worldwide. Spices from India reached Europe via the Silk Road, while the Columbian Exchange introduced ingredients like tomatoes, potatoes, and corn to the Old World.
Religion & Traditions: Religious beliefs influence dietary customs. Hinduism encourages vegetarianism, while Judaism observes kosher dietary laws. Festivals and rituals also give rise to unique, celebratory dishes.
While there are 20 to 30 major culinary traditions across the globe, many hidden gems remain underappreciated. Here are five underrated cuisines that deserve a spot on your culinary bucket list.
1. Peruvian Cuisine
Though dishes like ceviche have started gaining international attention, Peruvian cuisine remains relatively underrated. This cuisine is a vibrant fusion of Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. A key player is the Aji Amarillo, a bright yellow chili pepper that adds heat and complexity to traditional dishes like:
Ají de Gallina – A creamy chicken stew
Causa Rellena – A layered potato dish filled with tuna, chicken, or avocado
The cuisine’s bold use of citrus, chilies, and native tubers creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Ethiopian Cuisine
Often overshadowed by the more globally recognized flavors of North Africa and the Mediterranean, Ethiopian cuisine is a hidden gem. At the center is injera, a tangy, spongy flatbread made from teff flour, used to scoop up richly spiced stews and curries.
Doro Wat – A spicy chicken stew with hard-boiled eggs
Tibs – Stir-fried meat, often served with vegetables
Berbere – A complex spice blend that adds warmth and depth to many dishes
The communal nature of Ethiopian meals offers a uniquely social and satisfying dining experience.
3. Ukrainian Cuisine
Often overlooked in favor of Russian or Polish cuisine, Ukrainian food is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor—perfect for colder climates. Traditional dishes include:
Borscht – A beet-based soup served hot or cold
Varenyky (Pierogi) – Dumplings filled with savory or sweet fillings
Salo – Cured pork fatback, a beloved national delicacy
Ukrainian cuisine celebrates humble ingredients turned into soulful, satisfying meals.
4. Kashmiri Cuisine
Rich with the culinary traditions of both Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent, Kashmiri cuisine is deeply aromatic and full of layered flavors. Often divided into Pandit (vegetarian) and Wazwan (non-vegetarian) styles, the food is both regal and comforting.
Rogan Josh – A red lamb curry rich in Kashmiri chili and spices
Yakhni – A yogurt-based mutton curry
Godje Rajma – Kashmiri-style kidney beans
Kahwa – A fragrant green tea infused with saffron, almonds, and cardamom
Despite its depth and history, Kashmiri cuisine remains underrepresented on the global stage.
5. Maldivian Cuisine
This island nation draws culinary inspiration from Indian and Sri Lankan traditions, with a strong emphasis on coconut, spices, and seafood. Maldivian cuisine is simple yet deeply flavorful.
Garudhiya – A clear fish broth served with rice, lime, chili, and onions
Rihaakuru – A thick, rich fish paste used in many local dishes
Curries made with coconut milk, tuna, and fresh vegetables
Light, fresh, and perfect for tropical weather, Maldivian food offers a new take on South Asian flavors.
Rediscovering the Underrated
These five cuisines are just a glimpse into the vast, diverse world of culinary traditions that remain underexplored. Each one tells a story, preserves a heritage, and offers an experience unlike any other. By stepping off the beaten culinary path, we expand our palates, challenge our assumptions, and form deeper connections with cultures worldwide.
So, which underrated cuisine will you try next?
