In spirit of the games starting up, we’re celebrating with recipes from around the world. Check out some of our favorite recipes below, learn about their origins, and try a dish you may not have had before, all while enjoying the games. 

Grilled Thai Peanut Chicken Tenders with Pepper-Broccoli Slaw: Thai peanut chicken is a dish that originates from Thailand, where peanut sauces are commonly used in various recipes. The dish typically features chicken cooked in a rich, creamy peanut sauce made from ground peanuts, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. This sauce is often paired with vegetables and served over rice or noodles. The use of peanuts in Thai cuisine can be traced back to the influence of Chinese cooking, as peanuts were introduced to Thailand through trade. Over time, the dish has gained popularity worldwide, especially in Western countries, where it is often adapted to suit local tastes.

Middle Eastern Mushroom Burgers: Middle Eastern mushroom burgers are a modern culinary creation that draws inspiration from traditional Middle Eastern flavors and ingredients. This dish reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage, which often incorporates spices, herbs, and vegetables.

Mushrooms are commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine, often featured in dishes like stuffed vegetables or as part of pilafs. The concept of a mushroom burger emerged as a response to the growing demand for plant-based alternatives, combining the savory umami flavor of mushrooms with spices typical of the region, such as cumin, coriander, and garlic.

Japanese-Style Crab Cakes: Japanese-style crab cakes, often referred to as “kani korokke,” are a fusion of traditional Japanese cooking and Western influences. The concept of crab cakes itself is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly in Maryland, where blue crab is a staple. However, the Japanese adaptation incorporates local ingredients and flavors.

Kani korokke typically features a mixture of crab meat, mashed potatoes, and seasonings, which are then breaded and deep-fried until golden brown. The use of panko breadcrumbs gives them a light and crispy texture, which is a hallmark of Japanese cuisine.

Carne Guisada Recipe | Price Chopper: Carne Guisada, which translates to “braised meat,” is a traditional dish with roots in both Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to the Spanish influence on Mexican cooking, where stews made with various meats and spices were common. The dish typically features beef that is slow-cooked with a variety of ingredients, including tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, resulting in a rich, flavorful gravy.

In Mexico, carne guisada is often served with rice, beans, or tortillas, and it varies by region, with different spices and cooking methods reflecting local tastes.

Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Sage: Gnocchi is a type of Italian dumpling that has its origins in ancient Roman times. The word “gnocchi” is believed to derive from the Italian word “nocca,” meaning “knuckle,” which may refer to the shape of the dumplings or the way they are formed. Traditionally, gnocchi were made from a mixture of flour and water, but over time, potatoes were introduced, particularly in the 18th century, leading to the soft, pillowy texture that is now characteristic of potato gnocchi.

The dish has evolved regionally across Italy, with variations that include different ingredients such as ricotta, semolina, or even spinach. Each region has its own unique take on gnocchi, often served with various sauces, from simple butter and sage to rich tomato or cream-based sauces.

Sheet-Pan Fish & Chips: Fish and chips is a classic British dish that originated in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. Its roots can be traced back to the introduction of fried fish by Jewish immigrants from Portugal and Spain, who brought the technique of frying fish in batter. The first recorded mention of fish and chips as a combined dish appeared in the 1860s, with the opening of the first fish and chip shop, believed to be in London.

The dish gained popularity during the Industrial Revolution, as it provided a cheap and filling meal for the working class. The combination of crispy fried fish, typically cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries) became a staple in British cuisine. It was often enjoyed with malt vinegar and mushy peas.

Sweet & Tangy Pulled BBQ Chicken and Slaw Sandwiches: BBQ sandwiches have their origins in the Southern United States, where barbecue culture is deeply rooted in regional traditions and cooking methods. The concept of barbecuing meat dates back to indigenous practices, but it evolved significantly with the arrival of European settlers, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The term “barbecue” itself is believed to come from the Taino word “barbacoa,” which referred to a method of cooking meat over an open flame. In the South, various meats, especially pork, were slow-cooked over wood or charcoal, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes. The practice of serving this smoked or grilled meat on bread, creating a sandwich, became popular as a convenient way to enjoy BBQ.