One of the best parts about going abroad is the food culture! Of all the five senses you have, your sense of taste will certainly be sparked by interest and curiosity. The food you eat overseas will be a memory whose cravings live on even after you return to your home country!
Whether it’s kimchi in South Korea, curry in India, chili in Mexico, or gelato in Italy, food sampling is the best part of traveling. If you plan on traveling or studying abroad for an extended period of time, you will eventually find yourself trying to create some of these traditional dishes in your own kitchen. It’s not easy, and will doubtless taste authentic the first time you give it a try, but that’s all part of the fun!
Check out these 5 cooking tips when traveling or studying abroad:
1. Explore the grocery store.
If you haven’t traveled before – or even if you have – one of the best places to go to learn more about the country you are living in is to go to the grocery store, local market or supermarket. Here you will see foods that you’ve never eaten before, some of which you’ll be itching to try – while others may not be on the top of your food eating list. It’s important to see what’s local, what’s available, and what other people are buying.
2. No matter where you go, look high, look low.
When shopping at a grocery store or supermarket, the most expensive brands are typically found in the center of the shelves where products get more visibility. If you are looking for the best prices, be sure to look up and look down as you might find the same product for a much better price.
3. Make a friend.
Some of the spices, herbs, meats, and vegetables may be completely new to you. Making friends in your host country that know how to cook will certainly give you insight into preparation and authentic local cooking – plus, it’s a great bonding opportunity. As you meet people, invite them over to make dinner together. It’s a great way to learn more about the culture and to have an activity to do with just about anyone!
4. Be adventurous.
You’ve taken the bold step of studying or traveling abroad, so continue the streak with trying new things. As the saying goes, you don’t know until you try it. Our rule of thumb is to always try new foods twice. Whether it’s insects on your plate or something equally unusual, be daring and give it a try. Who knows, it may turn out to be your favorite food. When in Rome….
5. Buy a new food, look up a recipe, and create!
Going food shopping in another country can be intimidating, so that doesn’t mean you need to overwhelm yourself with a kitchen that looks like it belongs to someone else. Buy one new ingredient each time you go shopping and look up recipes. Before you know it, you’ll be piecing together new recipes and you’ll become an expert in local dining.
>> Want to learn more on staying healthy? Check out the top 5 ways to stay fit and healthy abroad.
Category: Health & Safety Abroad
