
Are you tired of the same old takeout options? Pizza, sushi, burgers, and tacos will always have a special place in our hearts and stomachs, but the world is brimming with culinary treasures that remain largely unexplored. In this guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey to discover underrated global cuisines you should definitely try—and introduce you to food brands and services that deliver authentic tastes straight to your doorstep. Get ready to expand your palate with hidden gems, authentic dishes, and top food brands that make exploring global flavors easier than ever.
Why Try Underrated Global Cuisines?
There’s a world of flavor out there beyond the usual suspects. Underrated cuisines often tell powerful stories about a nation’s history, agriculture, and culture. By seeking them out, you not only satisfy your taste buds but also broaden your culinary perspective, support small businesses, and become a true lover of global foods.
1. Georgian Cuisine: More Than Just Khachapuri
Tucked between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Georgia boasts a rich food culture blending influences from the Silk Road. Must-try dishes include khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread), khinkali (dumplings), lobio (bean stew), and pkhali (vegetable and walnut pâté).
Where to Get It:
- Chama Mama (New York): A top-rated spot delivering authentic Georgian dishes nationwide through Goldbelly.
- Bada Bean Caviar: For homemade-style Lobio, shipped throughout the US.
- Ajarian Khachapuri Bakery (London): Delivers fresh Georgian baked goods locally.
Pro tip: Explore Georgian Kitchen for spice blends that bring these flavors home.
2. Filipino Cuisine: Savory, Sweet, and Seriously Satisfying
Filipino food is a vibrant tapestry of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Its bold flavors and unique combinations are gaining traction—think adobo (vinegar and soy-marinated meat), kare-kare (peanut stew), pancit (stir-fried noodles), and halo-halo (shaved ice dessert).
Best Brands for Delivery:
- FilipinoFood Movement: Bundles and meal kits featuring Filipino classics shipped across North America.
- Ramar Foods: Frozen delicacies and ube treats delivered nationwide.
- Jollibee: The famous Filipino fast-food chain is now delivering buckets of joy (and crispy chicken) from select US and Canadian cities.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with brands like House of Silvanas for Filipino pastries and cookies, shipped to your door.
3. Burmese Cuisine: The Crossroads of Southeast Asia
Overshadowed by Thai and Vietnamese food, Burmese (Myanmar) cuisine is a fusion of flavors you’ll want to savor. Signatures include tea leaf salad (laphet thoke), mohinga (rice noodle and fish soup), and shan tofu.
Order from These Brands:
- Burmese Pantry: Offers meal kits and specialty Burmese pantry items with nationwide shipping in the US.
- Lopèz Burmese Kitchen (London): Delivers fresh Burmese meals in the UK.
- Oh My Shwe: Ready-to-eat Burmese food delivered across Australia.
Elevate your home-cooking with Burmese spice blends from Burmese Foods Online.
4. Ghanaian Cuisine: West Africa’s Soulful Flavors
Ghanaian food is full of earthy stews, vibrant jollof rice, fragrant grilled meats, and yam-based dishes. The cuisine bursts with Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, garlic, and unique spices.
Brands & Deliveries to Try:
- Essie Spice: Authentic Ghanaian sauces and rubs delivered worldwide. Their Mango Chili Medley is a must!
- Waakye Leaf (London): Specializes in classic Ghanaian rice-and-bean dishes delivered fresh.
- Pokies Ghana Kitchen (US): Packs and ships home-style Ghanaian meals to your door.
Stock up on yam flour, fufu mix, and palm oil from African grocery specialists like African Chop House (US/UK).
5. Peruvian Cuisine: A Multicultural Melting Pot
While ceviche has made it to mainstream menus, the rest of Peruvian cuisine often flies under the radar. Discover lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), aji de gallina (chicken in creamy pepper sauce), causa (potato terrine), and more.
Top Brands Serving Peruvian Delicacies:
- La Causa (NYC): Delivers Peruvian street food and made-to-order ceviche bowls.
- Peruvian Brothers (Washington, DC): Empanadas, sandwiches, and desserts shipped nationwide via Goldbelly.
- Try Peruvian Market (Nationwide): Pantry essentials for recreating Peruvian classics at home.
Unlock the world of native Peruvian peppers with artisanal ají amarillo pastes from Kai Pacha Foods.
6. Lebanese Cuisine: Fresh, Flavorful, and Often Plant-Based
Lebanon’s culinary heritage is rich with mezze (small plates), grilled meats, herbaceous salads, and delectable pastries. While you may have tried hummus or falafel, dishes like moussaka’a (eggplant stew), manakish (za’atar flatbread), and sfouf (semolina cake) are less known outside the region.
Brands Making Lebanese Food Accessible:
- Sahadi’s (Brooklyn): Offers Lebanese groceries, spreads, and prepared mezze with US-wide shipping.
- The Lebanese Bakery (London, Dubai): Fluffy flatbreads and pastries delivered across the UK and Middle East.
- Fou’s Food (Canada): Plant-based Lebanese meal kits delivered nationwide.
Experiment at home with spice packets from Beirut Bazaar or ready-made kibbeh available via Amazon and ethnic grocers.
Tips for Exploring Global Cuisines From Home
- Follow food bloggers and YouTube chefs specializing in global dishes for recipes and cultural insights.
- Join food subscription clubs like Taste the World or Try the World for monthly surprises from different countries.
- Choose brands and meal kits that prioritize authenticity, local ingredients, and support culinary communities.
- Check your local specialty grocer or shop online for hard-to-find spices and ingredients.
- Share a meal with friends and family—it’s the best way to experience another culture!
Conclusion: Open Your World by Opening Your Plate
The next time you’re craving delivery or looking for comfort food, try venturing beyond the expected. From the nutty stews of Ghana to the herbaceous salads of Lebanon, these underrated global cuisines offer unforgettable flavor, fascinating history, and a passport-free culinary adventure. With the rise of specialty brands, online grocers, and delivery services, borders no longer stand between you and authentic international food experiences.
Have you tried any of these global cuisines or brands? Share your favorites (or hidden gems we missed) in the comments! Hungry for more? Subscribe for the latest food discoveries, reviews, and guides to the world’s most delicious eats.
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