Image Source: Michael Stern via Flickr and CC 2.0
Adventurous types that really want to get into the local food scene should definitely try some of the intriguing meals that are available on sidewalks throughout the world. Street vendors in European Union and the upper portion of North America are generally considered to be a safe bet because they are well regulated by the local authorities. The same is true of those individuals peddling food in Singapore and in Penang, Malaysia. However, even in these locations, it is still a good idea to stick to places that have plenty of local customers to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Of course, people traveling through third world countries should also be wary of eating soft or unpeeled fruit or anything containing tap water because the aforementioned substances may harbor harmful microorganisms that could certainly ruin a trip. With those cautions in mind, here are some great street foods to try on your travels.
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French Fries: In Belgium, the Netherlands and North America, fried potatoes are the snack food of choice. These treats may be accompanied by a variety of condiments including ketchup, mayonnaise, or tartar sauce. French fries are also cut differently in various places. They are sliced thickly in Belgium but are cut into thin pieces in Netherlands. Canadians in particular have an unusual take on French fries because they smother them with cheese curds and gravy to produce the delicious calorie filled treat known as poutine, which is picture above.
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Hot Dogs: Variations on this snack are sold around the world. Although these sausages are usually comprised of some combination of beef, pork, and/or chicken, other meats may used instead. For example, reindeer hot dogs can be found in Alaska and Icelandic hotdogs often contain lamb. Toppings that usually are offered along with hot dogs include pickles, relish, ketchup, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, mustard, cheese, and hot peppers. A particularly famous variation is the Chicago style hot dog. This delicacy is a beef hotdog on a poppy seed bun that is then topped with tomatoes, peppers, mustard, onions, relish, and celery salt. It is generally accompanied by a dill pickle spear.
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Crepes, pancakes, and waffles: Although crepes originated in the Brittany region of France, different types of this treat can be found in various locations throughout the world. These delicacies can be either sweet or savory but both are incredibly tasty. Pancakes, the crepes’ thicker cousin, are much more common in Belgium and in the United States than their thinner relative. The Belgians are also fond of waffles which are even denser and sweeter than the two aforementioned goodies.
Happy Travels!
Sources: Wikipedia; Travel + Leisure; Bootsnall; Huffington Post
