The Best Vegan Dishes from Different Countries

With the growing popularity of plant-based eating, many are exploring vegan cuisine. The notion that vegan food is boring or restrictive is a myth. For centuries, cultures around the globe have prepared delicious, hearty and nourishing plant-based dishes. Vegan cooking showcases international cuisine. From spicy curries of India, to fresh Mediterranean salads.

In this guide, you’ll find some of the best vegan dishes from around the world. You’ll learn about their origins, key ingredients, and preparation tips. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just want to try more plant-based meals, these international recipes will enhance your cooking skills.

Why Explore International Vegan Cuisine?

1. Diverse Flavour Profiles

Different countries use unique spices, herbs, and cooking methods, offering an exciting variety of tastes.

• Indian curries feature aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
• Thai dishes balance sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavours with ingredients like lemongrass and tamarind.
• Mexican cuisine uses bold spices such as smoked paprika, chipotle, and cumin.

2. Nutritional Variety

International vegan dishes often incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients, offering a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins.

• Legumes and beans provide protein and fibre.
• Leafy greens and vegetables offer antioxidants and essential nutrients.
• Nuts, seeds, and whole grains contribute healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.

3. Culinary Creativity

Trying global vegan recipes encourages culinary creativity, introducing you to new techniques, flavour combinations, and presentation styles.

Iconic Vegan Dishes from Around the World

1. Indian Chana Masala (Spiced Chickpea Curry)

Origin: India Key Ingredients: Chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices.

Chana masala is a rich and hearty chickpea curry simmered with a blend of spices, including garam masala, cumin, and coriander. This dish is naturally vegan and packed with protein and fibre, making it a staple in Indian cuisine.

Cooking Tips:

• Use canned or pre-cooked chickpeas for convenience.
• Simmer the curry to allow the spices to fully infuse the sauce.
• Serve with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.

2. Ethiopian Misir Wat (Spicy Red Lentil Stew)

Origin: Ethiopia Key Ingredients: Red lentils, berbere spice, onions, garlic, and tomatoes.

Misir wat is a spicy and aromatic lentil stew flavoured with berbere spice, a traditional Ethiopian blend made with paprika, chilli powder, garlic, ginger, and fenugreek. It’s typically served with injera, a sourdough flatbread.

Cooking Tips:

• Toast the berbere spice blend before adding the lentils to enhance the flavour.
• Let the stew simmer until the lentils are tender and creamy.
• Pair with steamed greens or a simple salad.

3. Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

Origin: Thailand Key Ingredients: Green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, garlic, lime juice, and peanuts.

Som Tum is a refreshing, tangy salad made with shredded green papaya and flavoured with lime juice, garlic, and chilli. This dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours.

Cooking Tips:

• Use a julienne peeler or mandoline to shred the papaya into thin strips.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or fewer chillies.
• Top with crushed peanuts for added texture and flavour.

4. Mexican Tacos de Nopales (Cactus Tacos)

Origin: Mexico Key Ingredients: Nopales (cactus paddles), tomatoes, onions, garlic, and lime juice.

Tacos de Nopales are made with grilled cactus paddles, which have a slightly tangy flavour and tender texture. They are often served in corn tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado.

Cooking Tips:

• Remove the spines and rinse the cactus paddles thoroughly before cooking.
• Grill or sauté the nopales until they become tender and slightly charred.
• Serve with pico de gallo, cilantro, and lime wedges.

5. Lebanese Mujadara (Lentils and Rice)

Origin: Lebanon Key Ingredients: Brown lentils, rice, onions, and cumin.

Mujadara is a hearty and comforting dish made with spiced lentils, rice, and caramelised onions. It’s rich in protein and fibre, making it a nutritious vegan meal.

Cooking Tips:

• Cook the lentils and rice separately to ensure even cooking.
• Slowly caramelise the onions until they are deep brown and sweet.
• Serve with cucumber-tomato salad or tahini sauce.

6. Moroccan Zaalouk (Spiced Eggplant Dip)

Origin: Morocco Key Ingredients: Eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, paprika, and cumin.

Zaalouk is a flavourful and smoky eggplant dip with spices and tomatoes. It is typically served with Moroccan bread or as a side dish.

Cooking Tips:

• Roast the eggplant until the skin is charred for a smoky flavour.
• Mash the eggplant until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
• Drizzle with olive oil and fresh herbs before serving.

7. Italian Ribollita (Tuscan Bread and Vegetable Soup)

Origin: Italy Key Ingredients: Cannellini beans, kale, carrots, tomatoes, and stale bread.

Ribollita is a traditional Tuscan soup made with stale bread and vegetables, simmered until rich and hearty. It’s a perfect comfort food and naturally vegan.

Cooking Tips:

• Use day-old bread to soak up the flavours.
• Let the soup sit overnight—the flavour improves the next day.
• Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

8. Korean Bibimbap with Tofu

Origin: South Korea Key Ingredients: Rice, tofu, assorted vegetables, gochujang (spicy sauce).

Vegan bibimbap is a vibrant rice bowl topped with sautéed vegetables, crispy tofu, and a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce.

Cooking Tips:

• Marinate the tofu before pan-frying for extra flavour.
• Arrange the vegetables in separate sections for an attractive presentation.
• Mix everything thoroughly before eating to combine the flavours.

Tips for Recreating Global Vegan Dishes at Home

• Embrace authentic spices and herbs: Unlock the essence of each cuisine with traditional spice blends like garam masala, berbere, and ras el hanout.
• Play with plant-based proteins: Dance with tofu, tempeh, seitan, and legumes to create meatless magic.
• Add fresh herbs and citrus: Fresh herbs—think cilantro, parsley, and mint—paired with zesty lemon or lime juice will brighten and elevate your vegan creations.
• Cook low and slow for depth: Let flavours bloom through slow simmering or roasting, crafting rich, complex masterpieces.

Discovering Vegan Dishes

A global culinary adventure through vegan delights has never been easier! Savour A hearty Ethiopian lentil stew, where the spice tarts over your palate. Savour a fragrant Indian curry, its essence enveloping you in a warm hug. Or revive yourself with a zippy Thai salad, bright and breathing. These global recipes expose the diverse tapestry of plant-based eating, showing it can also be as varied, flavorful and satisfying as any food quest.

Dive into the vibrant tapestry of global vegan cuisine. Explore new spices, ingredients, and techniques that spark creativity. Unearth the joy of crafting authentic plant-based dishes right in your kitchen. Share these culinary delights with family and friends, creating memories worth savouring.