Do you want to travel the world without leaving your kitchen? From the sizzling pans of Spanish paella to the rich aroma of Thai curry, cooking international dishes at home is one of the best ways to connect with global cultures. Whether you’re a foodie, a solo traveler reliving your favorite meals, or someone looking to spice up weeknight dinners, these iconic dishes and cooking classes will help you whip up authenticity — one country at a time.
1. 🇮🇹 Italy: Pasta alla Carbonara
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| Viator: Roman Pasta Making Carbonara |
Pro tip: Use guanciale and Pecorino Romano for authenticity.
Recommended Class: Make Fresh Pasta & Carbonara with a Local in Rome
2. 🇹🇭 Thailand: Green Curry
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| Getty Images: Thailand Green Curry |
Why cook it: Fragrant, spicy, and creamy with coconut milk — Thai curry balances sweet, sour, salty, and heat like no other.
Pro tip: Use fresh Thai basil and homemade green curry paste.
Try This Class: Thai Green Curry from Scratch — GetYourGuide Class in Chiang Mai
3. 🇯🇵 Japan: Okonomiyaki
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| Getty Images: Okonomiyaki food classes |
Pro tip: Use dashi in the batter for authentic umami flavor.
Book This Class: Okonomiyaki & Japanese Street Food Class — Viator
4. 🇲🇽 Mexico: Tacos al Pastor
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| Getty Images: Mexico City Tacos |
Why cook it: Marinated pork, pineapple, and fresh tortillas — this is taco heaven in your kitchen.
Pro tip: Marinate the pork overnight and grill for best results.
Cooking Experience: Make Tacos with a Chef in Mexico City
5. 🇫🇷 France: Coq au Vin
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| Viator: Workshop on French cuisine or pastry online |
Pro tip: Use a Burgundy wine and let it simmer low and slow.
Learn It Here: French Bistro Classics Online Cooking Class — Viator
6. 🇮🇳 India: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
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| Getty Images: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) |
Pro tip: Use kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for that restaurant-style flavor.
Class Recommendation: Cook Indian Dishes with a Delhi Local — Viator
7. 🇪🇸 Spain: Paella Valenciana
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| GetYourGuide: Take a cooking class and eat Paella. |
Why cook it: One pan, rich flavors, and a bit of flair — it’s a showstopper and soul-warmer.
Pro tip: Resist the urge to stir! Let the socarrat (crispy bottom) form.
Try This Class: Authentic Paella Class in Valencia — GetYourGuide
8. 🇲🇦 Morocco: Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon
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| Getty Images |
Pro tip: If you don’t have a tagine, use a Dutch oven with a heavy lid.
Book a Class: Moroccan Market Tour + Tagine Cooking in Marrakech
9. 🇻🇳 Vietnam: Pho
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| Viator: Hanoi Cooking Class & Market Tour |
Why cook it: Slow-simmered broth, fresh herbs, rice noodles — it’s a bowl of balance and soul.
Pro tip: Char the onions and ginger for deeper flavor.
Join This Class: Pho & Spring Rolls Workshop in Hanoi
10. 🇰🇷 South Korea: Bibimbap
Why cook it: It’s colorful, healthy, spicy, and endlessly customizable.
Pro tip: Use gochujang (Korean chili paste) and a sizzling hot stone bowl.
Sign Up Here: Cook Korean Favorites in Seoul — GetYourGuide
Ready to Cook and Travel the World from Home?
Learning these dishes not only expands your culinary skills but also deepens your cultural appreciation. Whether you’re gifting a class to a fellow foodie or taking one yourself, cooking from around the world can be a delicious (and educational!) journey.
Also, consider: Food Tours That Justify Every Peso/Euro 2025 Selections
Bonus Tip:
Pair your cooking sessions with local music or a documentary about the country for a full cultural immersion. Enjoy dining wherever you choose—easily reserve your table right here.
