Food is a universal language, and understanding the names of international dishes in English opens doors to global flavors. Whether you're a traveler, food enthusiast, or simply curious about world cuisine, this guide introduces key English terms for iconic foreign dishes.

Italian Cuisine

Italian food is beloved worldwide, and its dishes often retain their original names in English.

1. Pasta – The umbrella term for Italy’s famous noodle dishes. Varieties include:

   • Spaghetti (long, thin strands)
   • Penne (tube-shaped with diagonal cuts)
   • Ravioli (stuffed pasta pockets)

2. Pizza – A flatbread topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various ingredients. Popular types:

   • Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil)
   • Pepperoni (spicy salami)

3. Risotto – Creamy rice cooked in broth, often flavored with saffron (Risotto alla Milanese) or mushrooms.

4. Tiramisu – A coffee-flavored dessert with layers of mascarpone cheese and ladyfingers.

French Cuisine

French culinary terms are widely used in fine dining.

1. Croissant – A buttery, flaky pastry.
2. Baguette – A long, crusty bread loaf.
3. Quiche – A savory tart with eggs, cream, and fillings like Lorraine (bacon and cheese).
4. Bouillabaisse – A rich seafood stew from Marseille.
5. Crème Brûlée – A custard dessert with a caramelized sugar top.

Japanese Cuisine

Japanese dishes have gained global popularity, with many names adopted into English.

1. Sushi – Vinegared rice paired with raw fish (sashimi), vegetables, or seaweed (nori). Common types:

   • Nigiri (hand-pressed rice with fish)
   • Maki (rolled sushi)

2. Ramen – Noodle soup with broth, toppings like chashu (braised pork), and nori.

3. Tempura – Lightly battered and fried seafood or vegetables.

4. Matcha – Finely ground green tea powder used in drinks and desserts.

Mexican Cuisine

Mexican food is vibrant and flavorful, with many Spanish terms used in English.

1. Taco – A folded tortilla filled with meat, beans, or vegetables.
2. Guacamole – A dip made from mashed avocados, lime, and cilantro.
3. Enchilada – Rolled tortillas covered in chili sauce.
4. Churros – Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar.

Indian Cuisine

Indian dishes often retain Hindi or regional names in English.

1. Curry – A spiced sauce with meat or vegetables, such as:

   

   • Butter Chicken (murgh makhani)
   • Chana Masala (spiced chickpeas)

2. Biryani – Fragrant rice cooked with spices and meat.

3. Naan – Soft, leavened flatbread.

4. Samosa – Fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Middle Eastern dishes offer bold flavors and unique textures.

1. Hummus – A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and lemon.
2. Falafel – Deep-fried chickpea patties.
3. Shawarma – Spiced meat roasted on a vertical spit, served in pita bread.
4. Baklava – A sweet pastry with layers of filo, nuts, and honey.

Thai Cuisine

Thai food balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.

1. Pad Thai – Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, and peanuts.
2. Tom Yum – A hot and sour soup with shrimp or chicken.
3. Green Curry – A coconut-based curry with green chili paste.

German Cuisine

Hearty and comforting, German dishes often feature meats and bread.

1. Bratwurst – A type of sausage, often grilled.
2. Sauerkraut – Fermented cabbage, a common side dish.
3. Pretzel – A twisted, salty bread snack.

Spanish Cuisine

Spanish food is rich in flavors and traditions.

1. Paella – A saffron-infused rice dish with seafood or meat.
2. Tapas – Small appetizers like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes).
3. Churros con Chocolate – Fried dough sticks served with thick hot chocolate.

Korean Cuisine

Korean food is known for bold flavors and fermented ingredients.

1. Kimchi – Spicy fermented cabbage.
2. Bibimbap – A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (chili paste).
3. Bulgogi – Marinated grilled beef.

Greek Cuisine

Greek dishes emphasize fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.

1. Gyro – Rotisserie meat wrapped in pita with tzatziki sauce.
2. Moussaka – A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
3. Feta – A brined cheese used in salads and pastries.

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese food is light and aromatic, with fresh herbs.

1. Pho – A fragrant noodle soup with beef or chicken.
2. Banh Mi – A sandwich with French bread, pickled vegetables, and meat.

Brazilian Cuisine

Brazilian food is diverse, with influences from Portugal, Africa, and indigenous cultures.

1. Feijoada – A black bean stew with pork.
2. Pão de Queijo – Cheese bread balls.

Final Thoughts

Learning these culinary terms enhances dining experiences and cultural appreciation. Whether ordering at a restaurant or cooking at home, knowing the correct names helps explore global flavors authentically.