For My Fellow Foodies

Spoiler Alert: Don’t Read When Hungry!

"Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together." - Guy Frieri

While wandering through the vibrant streets of Chinatown in Newcastle, England last night, I decided to duck into a traditional Thai massage parlour. It had been a long holiday, and my back was begging for some TLC. Climbing the narrow staircase to the first floor, I was instantly transported back to my time in Asia, where traditional Thai massages were part of my routine. I could almost smell the delicate aroma of lemongrass and jasmine, recalling the dimly lit rooms, the soft, firm hands of Thai masseuses who would expertly crack my bones and stretch my body like a doll, moving with rhythmic precision. It was a full-body reset, complete with soothing herbal tea to cap the session.

But last night’s experience? Let’s just say, not exactly what I was hoping for. The parlour itself was warm, clean, and zen—so far, so good. The masseuse? Thai. Check. But the massage? It was an odd blend of traditional Thai, hot stone, and oil. I’m not complaining—it felt great, but it wasn’t the pure Thai experience I was craving.

The real twist? My chatty masseuse. Unlike the silent treatments I’d experienced before, she was a talker, diving into stories and questions while kneading my muscles. Before I knew it, we were laughing and sharing tales of Thailand. But the real kicker? Food. Yep, amidst all the stretching and oiling, we spent the entire 60 minutes reminiscing about Thai cuisine. And by the end, I was hungry.

Walking home, stomach grumbling (and fasting didn’t help), my mind drifted to some of the best meals I’ve ever had. From the streets of Thailand to the shores of the Caribbean, my taste buds were flooded with memories. I couldn’t help but think of all the dishes that have left a permanent mark on my palate—each one a culinary love affair.

So, in honour of my hungry self, here’s a list of my top 10 all-time favorite dishes that never fail to take me to food heaven:

1. Colourful Caribbean Rice & Beans

It’s personal, and perhaps a little biased, but I’m Caribbean at heart. Each island has its version of rice and beans, but my go-to involves plain white rice topped with a rich red kidney bean sauce. Pair that with goat "griot" (pronounced gree-oh), creamy avocado slices, and caramelized sweet plantains, and you’ve got a meal to die for. The goat is marinated with citrus and Scotch bonnet peppers, then fried to a crisp perfection. This dish is endlessly versatile: swap the goat for pork or chicken, and fry green plantains instead of sweet. But for me, this combo reigns supreme. Bon appétit!

2. Traditional Romanian Sarmales

This dish takes me back to my Romanian adventures. Picture grape leaves stuffed with a rich mix of ground pork, beef, rice, and spices, slow-cooked for hours until every bite melts in your mouth. Sometimes, cabbage leaves replace the grape leaves, but the flavour remains divine. Traditionally served with polenta and a dollop of sour cream, this meal is comfort in every bite. Pofta Buna!

3. Japanese Sushi Set revisité

Sushi is a masterpiece of simplicity, but one time in Japan, I had the most unforgettable sushi rolls, combining Philadelphia cheese, crispy crab tempura, and a hint of sweet banana. Since then, I’ve never found it replicated, but the memory lingers. These unique flavours, paired with traditional miso soup, sashimi, and a touch of wasabi-soy dipping sauce, are the epitome of perfection. Shokuyoku!

4. Assorted Lebanese Mezze

I haven’t been to Lebanon yet, but I was lucky enough to befriend a Lebanese cook who introduced me to the magic of mezze. Labneh, hummus, baba ghanouj, falafel, tabbouleh—each dish is an explosion of flavors. I may no longer be in touch with her, but her recipes have stayed with me, and I pop into Lebanese restaurants whenever I get the chance. One day, I’ll make it to Lebanon for the real deal.

5. Roman-Jewish Deep-Fried Artichokes

Rome gifted me a whole new appreciation for artichokes. The crispy, golden perfection of deep-fried Roman-Jewish artichokes is a revelation. Growing up, artichokes were a staple in my house, but the Italians took this humble vegetable and elevated it to something truly spectacular. Crunchy, salty, and just plain delicious. Una delizia!

6. Tahitian Raw Fish Salad

If you love raw fish as much as I do, this dish from Tahiti is heaven on a plate. Fresh tuna marinated with lime, tossed with crisp veggies like cucumber and bell pepper, and topped with rich coconut milk—it’s a flavour symphony. Each bite takes me back to French Polynesia’s breezy beaches. This isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate.

7. Vietnamese Pho

A bowl of Pho is like a warm hug from Vietnam. It’s rich, savory, and packed with fresh herbs, tender beef, and silky rice noodles. One bowl and you’re set for the day. Pho’s delicate balance of flavours keeps me coming back, time and again.

8. Greek Appetiser Delight

From sailing the Greek islands to taverna-hopping, Greek cuisine holds a special place in my heart. Dakos, tzatziki, saganaki, grilled octopus—each appetiser is a little piece of heaven. Paired with local wine and good company, it’s impossible to go wrong. Efcharistó, Greece, for this divine spread!

9. Homemade Mexican Guacamole

Guacamole is an international sensation, but I like to make mine more than just a dip. Packed with fresh lime, cilantro, tomatoes, and a hint of jalapeño, this version is a full-blown salad that bursts with flavour. I could eat avocados all day, every day. Buen provecho!

10. Thai Mango Sticky Rice

You probably guessed right: this dish won me points with last night's Thai masseuse. But it's no joke, this sweet Thai dessert is one of my all-time favorite deserts in the world! It's very simple, made with just glutinous white rice, fresh yellow mango, and coconut milk, in the simplest, most delightful way. Every bite is a tropical getaway. Kap Khun Ka, Thailand!

These dishes have left their mark on my taste buds, but there are countless more that could’ve easily made this list—like Indian Chicken Masala, West African Maafe, Vanuatu Laplap, Burmese-style Hot Pot, Oriental Couscous, Croatian Strukli, French Crêpes and Macarons, Swiss Raclette and Fondue, Eastern-European Ciorba, and Indonesian Coconut Pancakes. But for now, these 10 culinary delights are my ultimate indulgences. What are yours?

Sarah The Digital GypSea

United Kingdom, January 2020