Christopher Precopia has traveled around the world since a young age, and his passion for food is unparalleled. He firmly believes that being adventurous with travel and trying new cuisines is one of the best ways to experience a culture, whether it is authentically local or crossovers from other countries.
Authentic Italian Pasta in Rome
Christopher had the pleasure of traveling to Rome, Italy and said that their pasta was absolutely divine – an experience he’ll never forget. As Rome isn’t far from its Mediterranean coast, anchovies are a popular ingredient in many dishes. He enjoyed the unusual combination of milky burrata, salty anchovy, zesty tomatoes, flavorful basil, and earthy mushrooms. Christopher highly recommends visiting Rome for authentic Italian food.
Exotic Indian Spices in Kerala
Christopher ventured to Kerala, India where traditional cuisine uses tropical fruits, various spices, and spectacular seafood. The diversity of flavors in Indian dishes is impressive, as they tend to use a wide range of spices including cumin, coriander, turmeric, fenugreek, and pepper. Every recipe requires precise measurements of each spice to attain the crave-worthy end result. Christopher found the food to be a little spicy but very flavorful.
Delicious Pho in Vietnam
No surprise here, but Christopher’s favorite dish by far was the traditional Vietnamese noodle soup: pho. This light yet flavorful dish is made with noodles, thinly sliced onion, herbs, and the main ingredient, beef broth. It definitely holds a special place in his heart, as it was the first entree he tried during his stay there. According to Christopher, this national dish is a must-try.
Christopher loves nothing more than immersing himself in a new culture and combining it with local cuisine. Whether it’s exploring unique flavor combinations, cooking his own take on a traditional dish, or tasting something completely new, sampling food from new places brings out the inner chef in him. In his opinion, paying attention to the different nuances between cultures is an essential part of understanding that culture.
How to Become an Adventurous Foodie
If you’re looking to become an adventurous foodie like Christopher, start by researching the destination’s local eateries, restaurants, markets, and grocery stores. Almost every country has its delicacies, so familiarize yourself with the unique ingredients and flavor profiles before you take your trip. Ask friends, locals, and online reviews about the best places to eat and what to order there, as well as any off-the-beaten-path establishments that would bring a more authentic vibe.
Another tip is to befriend locals and ask them to teach you how to cook some of the local dishes. What better way to understand the cuisine than by acquiring the skills needed to make it? If you don’t have the time, try going to classes or food tours that will teach you all about the local culture and cuisine while still having the opportunity to taste it.
Long-lasting Memories through Travel and Food
Traveling and eating go hand-in-hand. Experiencing local cuisine is a great way to connect with a culture and remember the adventure for years to come. Whether it’s experiencing the taste of freshly picked cherries from a farm in France or sipping on hot sake during a snowfall in Japan — these unique flavors and experiences will stay with you forever.
The next time you plan to travel, remember to keep an open mind and savor the different flavors you discover along the way. Like Christopher Precopia, you can embark on a culinary journey across the globe and create memories that will last a lifetime.