Traditional Winter Food Dishes from Around the World

What better way to spice up winter’s chill than to take a food tour around the world? Trying new culinary techniques, recipes, or ingredients is an exciting way to experience different cultures, flavors, and traditions. We’ve gathered some favorite winter dishes from around the globe so you can sample cuisines in your own home. Let’s get started!

France

Known around the world as one of the premier spots for delicious dining, France offers a variety of savory winter dishes to enjoy. One of the classics is Beef Bourguignon, a rich, hearty stew. This dish simmers and slow cooks for hours, allowing the meat to become tender and rich. This full-flavored stew will help warm you and your guests up during even the coldest of winter days.

For a classically French side, try your hand at Potatoes au Gratin; this decadent, creamy side dish pairs perfectly with any meat entrée. 

Lastly, Cassoulet is a classic French dish that originates from the south. Warm, hearty, and full of protein and fiber, this dish is a classic for good reason. You can try this easy version or a traditional recipe for an all-day roast.

Italy

Known for pastas, pizzas, and meals full of flavor, Italian cuisine can help make you feel like you’re in the Italian countryside. Zuppa Toscana is a classic fall and winter favorite, boasting rich flavors and an easy-to-follow recipe. Risotto is another classic Italian favorite; try a few of these recipes here, from a classic risotto to a garlic parmesan, or bring out winter flavors with pumpkin or butternut squash. For a meatless option, a Ribollita stew is thickened with rich beans, old bread, and simmered for ultimate flavor.

For classic pastas, try an iconic Pasta al Forno recipe, and you can even try making your own homemade pasta. You can also give Pasta al Brodo a try for a simple, warming dish.

Ecuador

Ready for a venture into South America? Ecuadorian food is characterized by potatoes, plantains, limes, and seafood, and comes in a variety of flavors and textures. One of the most popular dishes is Encebollado, a classic fish soup. Hornado, a slow-roasted pork, is another popular dish. Ceviche is a classic, and Llapingachos are a mountain staple and are made with potatoes. These pancakes are a favorite as a breakfast or snack food.

Ethiopia

Let’s keep our culinary world adventure going with a trip over to the African continent! Ethiopia is known for its highly seasoned, spicy, rich foods, especially rich stews in the wintertime. One of the most common spice seasonings is berbere, which can be used to season soups, stews, meats, or sides.

Doro Wat and Key Wat are some of the most popular winter dishes in Ethiopia. Rich, hearty, spicy, and savory, they’ll keep you warm during the cold winter days. These stews can be enjoyed alone, with bread, or consider mixing it up and serving over rice or potatoes. Tibs is another popular dish consisting of a braised meat sliced thinly with onions and spices. You can use chicken, beef, pork, or lamb for this meal.

For some meatless options, give Shiro Wat or Atakilt Wat a try. These dishes can be customized to your palate by using more or less spices and seasoning to fit your preferences. Serve with authentic Injera for a delicious side.

These are just a few of the warming, flavorful dishes you can find around the world. Try picking a country and making a dish from that region, or have friends and family come over for a potluck-style dinner where everyone is assigned a different country for a true taste around the world. We’re sure you’ll enjoy the adventure! Be sure to visit the CapTel blog for more recipes and creative ideas.