14 best Asian street foods that tourists cannot miss

Pho (Vietnam)

Pho, Vietnam's national dish, tops the list of the world's best dishes according to Business Insider. Originating from Nam Dinh and Hanoi, pho conquers diners with its sweet broth made from stewed bones, soft rice noodles, thinly sliced ​​beef or chicken, combined with herbs such as basil and coriander.

CNN rates pho as a quintessential, harmonious dish, becoming the "culinary ambassador" of Vietnam, loved by international tourists and called by its correct name "Pho" instead of "noodle".

Sushi (Japan)

Sushi, the symbol of Japanese cuisine, is not only a dish but also an art. Vinegared rice (sumeshi) combined with fresh seafood, spicy wasabi and pickled ginger creates a unique flavor. Sushi is enjoyed by lightly dipping the topping in soy sauce, served with ginger to cleanse the taste buds, ensuring a complete experience.

Tom Yum (Thailand)

Tom Yum Goong, Thailand's signature spicy and sour shrimp soup, has been hailed by CNN as the country's best dish. The combination of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors from shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and tomatoes makes Tom Yum a must-try dish in Thailand, popular from night markets to luxury restaurants.

Samgyetang (Korea)

Samgyetang, a Korean ginseng chicken soup, is the perfect choice for hot days. Young chicken stuffed with ginseng, glutinous rice, jujubes, and astragalus is stewed in a stone pot, creating a delicious and nutritious flavor. This dish not only helps cool the body but also brings a feeling of well-being.

Dumplings (China)

Dumplings, a traditional Chinese dish, are especially popular during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing good luck and reunion. With a thin, chewy skin and a filling of meat or shrimp, steamed or boiled, and served in a clear broth, dumplings are an indispensable dish when exploring Chinese cuisine.

Thali (India)

Thali, a traditional South Asian meal, offers a balance of six flavors: salty, sweet, spicy, bitter, sour, and fatty. Consisting of Basmati rice, roti bread, vegetable curry, yogurt, and sweets, Thali represents the culinary diversity of India, Nepal, and neighboring countries.

Ikan Bakar (Malaysia)

Ikan Bakar, a Malaysian specialty, is a grilled fish marinated in chili sauce and spices and grilled on banana leaves, creating an enticing aroma. This dish, especially popular in Maluku and Sulawesi, captivates visitors with its natural sweetness of fresh fish and its spicy taste.

Satay (Malaysia)

Satay, a Malaysian skewered meat dish, is marinated in a spicy and distinctive flavor, grilled over hot coals, and served with a rich peanut dipping sauce. Although popular in many countries, Malaysian satay has retained its unique flavor, becoming a must-try street food.

Jasha Maru (Bhutan)

Jasha Maru, Bhutanese chicken stew, features the signature spicy kick of Thimphu red chilies. Shredded chicken stewed with onions, tomatoes, ginger and coriander, this dish offers a unique taste experience that visitors will never forget.

Doner Kebab (Türkiye)

Doner Kebab, a famous Turkish street food, is a combination of sesame-covered bread, grilled meat on skewers, vegetables and various sauces. The meat is thinly sliced, tender and fragrant, making this dish a street food icon.

Chicken Rice (Singapore)

Hainanese chicken rice, though of Chinese origin, has become an iconic dish in Singapore. Boiled or roasted chicken, rice cooked with ginger, garlic, pandan leaves, and served with a chilli and cucumber dipping sauce, is popular in both street stalls and fine dining restaurants.

Chili Crab (Singapore)

Chilli crab, Singapore's national dish, ranked 35th on the list of the world's 50 most delicious foods. The sauce made from garlic, rice vinegar, eggs and special spices, combined with fresh, sweet crab, creates an unforgettable culinary experience.

Beef Rendang (Indonesia)

Beef Rendang, an Indonesian beef curry dish, is famous for its spicy, rich taste from coconut milk, combined with lemongrass, ginger, and chili. Often served during holidays, Rendang is the quintessence of Balinese cuisine, served with white rice or bamboo rice.

Massaman Curry (Thailand)

Massaman Curry, which topped CNN’s list of the world’s 50 most delicious foods, is the pride of Thailand. With its spicy, sweet, and creamy taste from coconut milk, peanuts, potatoes, and spices, this dish conquers every diner at the first try.

Each dish has its own unique flavor, reflecting the regional identity and habits of the people there, creating a diverse and rich culinary culture for Asia in particular and the world in general. If you have the opportunity to visit these beautiful countries, do not forget to enjoy these specialties to complete your culinary journey!