Street food is an integral part of many cultures and offers a delicious and convenient way to try new flavors and dishes. The best street food recipes offer a variety of quick bites with an array of rich and exotic flavors.
In this article, we will be exploring some of the most popular and delicious street foods from a variety of countries, highlighting the unique ingredients and techniques that make each one special.
Whether you’re a seasoned street food enthusiast or just looking to branch out and try something new, there is sure to be something on this list that will tantalize your taste buds.
Best Street Food Recipes: Quick Table
Recipe | Calories (Per Serving) | Preparation Time |
Falafel | 70 | 5 Min |
Takoyaki | N/A | 10 Min |
Churros | 368 | 15 Min |
Samosas | 82 | 30 Min |
Gourmet Hot Dog | 553 | 20 Min |
Chicken Shawarma | 411 | 55 Min |
Pad Thai | 455 | 20 Min |
Paella | 535 | 20 Min |
Currywurst | 26 | 10 Min |
Kebabs | 178 | 20 Min |
Crepes | 80 | 5 Min |
Jerk Chicken | 630 | 15 Min |
Peking Duck | N/A | 3 Hours |
Empanada | 409 | 15 Min |
Spring Rolls | 143 | 10 Min |
Chimichangas | 204 | 15 Min |
Corn on the cob | N/A | 10 Min |
Fried rice | 612 | 10 Min |
Pupusas | 312 | 15 Min |
Shrimp Po’ Boy | 1025 | 25 Min |
Soft Pretzels | N/A | 25 Min |
Fish And Chips | 364 | 15 Min |
Croissant | N/A | 5.5 Hours |
Gyros | 726 | 20 Min |
Bao | 289 | 1 Hour |
1. Falafel
Falafel is a delicious and popular Middle Eastern street food made of spiced chickpeas or fava beans that have been ground into a paste and formed into balls or patties.
The patties are then deep-fried to create a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.
Whether served on their own as a snack or stuffed into a pita with vegetables and sauces, this falafel recipe is a tasty and satisfying treat that is sure to please.
Calories Per Serving: 70
Total Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
2. Takoyaki
Takoyaki is a savory snack from Japan made by cooking small balls of dough filled with diced octopus, tempura bits, and green onion on a griddle.
The dough balls are then topped with a variety of savory sauces and garnishes, such as kewpie mayonnaise and fish flakes, creating a unique and delicious flavor experience.
Takoyaki is traditionally eaten as a street food, but can also be enjoyed at home with the use of a takoyaki pan or griddle.
If you’re ready to take on a fun takoyaki DIY, make sure to check out the following recipe.
Calories Per Serving: N/A
Total Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
3. Churros
Churros are a type of fried dough pastry that originated in Spain and are popular in many Spanish-speaking countries.
They are often served hot and dusted with sugar, and can be enjoyed on their own or filled with chocolate or other sweet fillings.
These deep-fried delights are truly irresistible and with this recipe, can be made straight from the comfort of your own home.
Calories Per Serving: 368
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
4. Samosas
Samosas are a beloved snack food in South Asia, and they’re quickly gaining popularity around the world.
With their crispy, flaky crust and savory filling of spiced potatoes and peas, it’s no wonder they’ve been a favorite for centuries.
Calories Per Serving: 82
Total Preparation Time: 30 Minutes
5. Gourmet Hot Dogs
Gourmet hot dogs is a delicious creation made with high-quality meats, unique and flavorful toppings, and often served on artisanal buns.
Whether you’re a fan of classic toppings like mustard and onions or more creative options like pineapple and teriyaki sauce, there’s a gourmet hot dog out there for every taste bud.
This particular recipe offers a caramelized onion twist on the street food fad and is so good you’ll need seconds!
Calories Per Serving: 553
Total Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
RELATED: 25 Amazing Indian Street Foods
6. Chicken Shawarma
Chicken shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that provides a combination of juicy, flavorful chicken and fresh vegetables, all packed into a pita bread and topped off with a delectable sauce.
This shawarma recipe is easy, delicious and makes for a satisfying and delicious home-cooked meal.
Calories Per Serving: 411
Total Preparation Time: 55 Minutes
7. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish that mixes rice noodles, chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables into one delicious and impressive stir-fry.
This sweet, savory and sour street food makes for the perfect quick weeknight dinner and is sure to become a new family favorite.
Make sure to serve it with peanut sauce for the full effect!
Calories Per Serving: 455
Total Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
8. Paella
Paella is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Having originated in Spain, this dish is made with a variety of ingredients, including rice, seafood or chicken, and vegetables.
This particular recipe incorporates a variety of seafood plus a hint of chicken.
Calories Per Serving: 535
Total Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
9. Currywurst
Currywurst is a popular German street food that consists of sliced bratwurst sausage served with a spicy curry sauce.
If you’re looking for a quick snack, a juicy currywurst will definitely hit the spot.
For a heartier meal, try serving it with fries or bread.
Calories Per Serving: 26
Total Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
10. Kebabs
Kebabs are a popular street food that originated in the Middle East and are made by grilling meat on a skewer and serving it with vegetables and a variety of sauces.
Whether you enjoy your kebab with a side of rice or wrapped in a warm pita bread, this delicious and convenient meal is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Calories Per Serving: 178
Total Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
11. Crepes
If there’s one thing we can truly thank the French for, it’s crepes.
These delightful and delicate pancake-like creations are whipped up in no time and can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as fruit, chocolate, cheese, or ham and eggs.
Bon appetit!
Calories Per Serving: 80
Total Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
12. Jerk Chicken
Jerk chicken is a spicy and flavorful Caribbean dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
The secret to its delicious taste lies in the marinade, which is made with a blend of aromatic spices and fiery Scotch bonnet peppers.
Calories Per Serving: 630
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
13. Peking Duck
Peking duck is a traditional Chinese dish that’s known for its crispy, golden brown skin and juicy, succulent meat.
The duck is slow-roasted to perfection and traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce for a truly mouth-watering experience that you won’t be able to get enough of.
Calories Per Serving: N/A
Total Preparation Time: 3 Hours
14. Empanadas
Empanadas are savory pastries that are popular in many Latin American countries.
They are made by folding a dough around a filling, which can be anything from meat and vegetables to fruit and cheese.
This recipe uses a delicious beef filling for a truly warm and unforgettable eating experience!
Calories Per Serving: 409
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
RELATED: 25 Best Asian Street Food Recipes With Delectable Taste
15. Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a popular appetizer in many Asian cuisines, and for good reason!
They are made by wrapping a variety of fillings, such as vegetables, meat, or seafood, in a thin, delicate wrapper.
Serve this dish as an appetizer at your next dinner party and watch your guests revel over every crunchy bite!
Calories Per Serving: 143
Total Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
16. Chimichangas
Chimichangas are a delectable deep-fried burrito that originated in Tucson, Arizona.
They are typically filled with meat, beans, and cheese and are served with a variety of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
If you like Mexican cuisine, this is a must-try!
Calories Per Serving: 204
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
17. Corn On The Cob
Slathered with butter and seasoned to salty perfection? If you’re not eating corn on the cob during the summer, what are you doing?
This delicious and juicy dish can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or as a side dish to a variety of meals.
Calories Per Serving: N/A
Total Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
18. Fried Rice
Looking for some street food inspo that will satisfy your rice cravings?
Fried rice is just what you need! This dish is made with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and eggs, is flavorful, filling, and easy to customize to suit your personal taste.
Calories Per Serving: 612
Total Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
19. Pupusas
Pupusas are a traditional food from El Salvador and are made by stuffing a thick corn tortilla with a variety of fillings such as cheese, beans, and pork, and then cooking them on a griddle until they are hot and crispy.
Serve these babies with a side of slaw and some spicy curtido for the full effect!
Calories Per Serving: 312
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
20. Shrimp Po’ Boys
Shrimp po’ boys are a classic sandwich from New Orleans that are made with fried shrimp and served on a toasted baguette along with various toppings, including lettuce, tomato, and a tangy mayonnaise-based sauce.
Say goodbye to boring bologna sandwiches and say hello to delicious and flavorful seafood bites of joy!
Calories Per Serving: 1025
Total Preparation Time: 25 Minutes
RELATED: 25 Delicious And Authentic Greek Street Food Recipes
21. Soft Pretzels
Warm, soft and chewy golden brown dough twisted into a knot of salty goodness?
Yes please!
Soft pretzels are the perfect treat to enjoy while cheering on your favorite sports team or just snacking on the go.
Calories Per Serving: N/A
Total Preparation Time: 25 Minutes
22. Fish And Chips
Fish and chips is a classic British dish that consists of battered and fried fish served with a side of deep-fried potatoes.
This classic duo is often served with a side of tartar sauce or malt vinegar, and makes for a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal.
Calories Per Serving: 364
Total Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
23. Croissants
Luckily for us, the French not only blessed us with crepes, but they also gifted us with the buttery and flaky pastry that is croissants.
If you love this pastry as much as us, it’s time to move on from your mediocre Pillsbury pre-made croissants and try making your own!
Calories Per Serving: N/A
Total Preparation Time: 5.5 Hours
24. Gyros
Bring your kitchen to the Mediterranean and try out the Greek street food that is known as gyros!
Gyros are made with slices of spit-roasted meat and served on a pita bread with vegetables and a yogurt-based sauce.
This recipe captures the dish perfectly and takes just FDJNGJG minutes to prepare.
Calories Per Serving: 726
Total Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
25. Bao
In the mood for an Asian dish?
Bao is a type of Chinese dumpling that consists of a soft, white bun filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings, such as braised meat and vegetables or sweet red bean paste.
They are often served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, and are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a variety of tasty flavors.
Calories Per Serving: 289
Total Preparation Time: 1 Hour
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Considered Street Food?
Street food refers to food or beverages that are sold by vendors in public areas such as streets, markets, or fairs. These items are usually ready to eat and are sold from mobile stands like food carts or trucks. They are intended to be consumed right away.
Which Street Food Is Healthy?
While most street foods aren’t terribly nutritious, some examples of that may be considered healthier options include grilled or steamed vegetables, fruit smoothies or juices, and grilled or roasted meat or poultry.
What Makes Street Food Different?
Street food is often a reflection of local cultural traditions and can come in a wide range of options.
The ingredients and methods of preparation for these foods and drinks are also highly diverse.
Street food vendors often set up their stands in outdoor or easily accessible areas, such as under a roof or near the street. These stalls provide convenient access to a variety of snacks, drinks, and meals.