Fried foods’ irresistibly crunchy texture is addictive to even the most health-conscious person. There are so many fried foods worldwide; this list will tell you the best! Anything can taste better with the help of some hot oil! Even milk (yes, there is fried milk).
1. Churros
We can’t have a list of fried foods around the world without churros! These fried ridged sticks are covered in cinnamon sugar giving them a wonderfully sweet taste. Churros originated in Spain, but they have gained popularity throughout Latin America. Dip them in hot chocolate or coffee for a more traditional flavor.
2. Mandazi
Throughout East Africa, you can find these fluffy fried dough balls. They have many names such as mandazi, mamri, or puff puff. Each region has its spin on the fried dough adding ingredients like milk, coconut milk, cardamom, or nuts.
3. Zucchini Flowers
Are you trying to keep healthy while eating fried foods? Try these Italian fried zucchini flowers. Zucchini flowers are filled with prosciutto, cheese, herbs, and sometimes rice. They’re crispy, but don’t feel too greasy thanks to the refreshing taste of the flower. It’s one of the healthier fried foods around the world.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes
Italy isn’t the only country eating fried veggies! The Southern United States is well-known for its love of fried green tomatoes. Each tomato slice is battered and breaded with crumbs before being fried, giving an exceptionally crunchy exterior. The acidity of the green tomato gives a refreshing flavor that cuts through the grease of its exterior.
5. Tostones
If you’re a fan of potato chips, then you’ll enjoy tostones. This Latin American snack is made by double frying and smashing slices of unripe plantain. They can be enjoyed as is or with different dips and sauces.
Try tostones with my Avocado dip.
6. Fofos de arroz
Mozambique has one of the best fried foods around the world named fofos de arroz. Balls of rice are filled with shrimp, then seasoned with garlic and bay leaf before being breaded and fried. Each crunchy bite is filled with unforgettable flavor.
7. Banh Cam
Banh cam is the perfect sweet treat for those who don’t like too much sugar. Glutinous rice flour is filled with mung bean paste, rolled in sesame seeds, and then fried. The Vietnamese snack is crispy, nutty, and slightly sweet. Be careful, as it is highly addictive!
8. Katsu
Japan is well-known for its fried foods like tempura, but don’t forget about katsu! Katsu is fried chicken or pork cutlet that pairs beautifully with curry, slaw, or rice. Drizzle on some katsu sauce for the perfect meal!
9. Leche Frita
Who knew milk could be fried? Spain did! Leche frita, or fried milk in English, is a popular snack in the country. Milk is mixed with flour and sugar and then cooked until thickened. It’s then cubed, battered, and fried. Enjoy it as is, or sprinkle the fried milk with a bit of sugar. You may enjoy it more than you think!
Try making Leche Frita at home with this recipe.
10. Jalebi
Jalebi is a popular sweet in India that will steal the heart of any sweet tooth. The batter is fried into small rounds and then dipped in syrup. The syrup gives jalebi a chewier texture, so it’s slightly different from your usual fried snack.
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11. Fry Bread
Fry bread has a long, complex history in the United States. But one thing is for sure, fry bread is incredibly delicious. Created by Native Americans in the US, this snack is the perfect vehicle for toppings. Its fluffy, large, and can be sweet or savory.
Learn more about fry bread here!
12. French fries
We cannot talk about the best fried foods worldwide without talking about fries! Despite being called “French fries,” they are actually from Belgium. Though fries are a humble side dish, they have taken over the globe. From classic fries to shoestring to Cajun fries, there are many ways to enjoy this fried food.
Make my animal-style fries for your next fry-day treat!
13. Pakora
There are many ways to enjoy pakora. The Indian vegetable fritter can be made with any veggie you like, whether eggplant, potato, or carrot. Pakora is the perfect snack for those who want to eat more veggies!
14. Fried Chicken
Frying chicken is one of the best ways to cook the protein. It’s crunchy, juicy, and oh-so-flavorful. Each country has its spin on fried chicken. Whether it’s double-fried and glazed, covered in spices, or shallow-fried, there is much to do with fried chicken.
Take fried chicken to the next level with my sous vide fried chicken recipe.
15. Kibbeh
Kibbeh, Lebanon's national dish, is one of the more underrated fried foods around the world. Beef or lamb is combined with bulgur and seasonings, shaped, and fried. The football-shaped snack is crunchy and packed with loads of flavor. Pair it with yogurt or a side salad to balance the fried delicacy.
Try making kibbeh at home with this awesome recipe!
16. Falafel
Falafel is a perfect fried snack for vegetarians and omnivores alike. The fritters are packed with chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Each bite is crunchy yet slightly soft in the center. Enjoy falafel in pita bread or on top of a Mediterranean salad.
17. Samosa
Samosas are probably India’s most well-known fried food. The flaky pastry is packed with wonderfully seasoned potatoes and vegetables. It’s crispy, buttery, and has just the smallest hint of spice. Samosas may be vegetarian, but anyone can enjoy them!
18. Calamari
Seafood lovers rejoice! Calamari is one of the best-fried foods around the world! Squid is sliced into rings and lightly fried to create the ultimate appetizer. Squeeze lemon juice on top or enjoy it with a refreshing tartar sauce for the best experience.
19. Lumpia
Lumpia is a classic Filipino fried snack you can’t just eat one of. These snacks are spring rolls that are filled with pork or veggies. Their thin wrapper makes them unbelievably crispy and crunchy.
20. Pempek
Pempek is severely underrated. The Indonesian snack is a fried fish cake made from mixing ground fish meat, tapioca, and seasonings. Though it’s now a popular snack in Indonesia, pempek has humble beginnings. To learn more about pempek’s origins, read this article.
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