21 Types of Cuisine and Their Famous Dishes

Italian cuisine is one of the best fusion of food and culture. Ancient Italians focused on regional and traditional ingredients but were later influenced by the colonization of the Americas. The food in the country is deeply rooted in the regions, and some variety can be found within Italy itself. Its focus on fresh ingredients has stood the test of time.

The cuisine has influenced several other cuisines throughout the world, most importantly American cuisine. Some ingredients are often associated with this cuisine are olive oil, cheese, wine, tomatoes and citrus fruits.

Famous dishes:

• Pasta
• Pizza
• Tiramisu
• Gelato
• Caprese Salad

Mexican cuisine is a celebration of flavor and tradition. It is best known for its bold flavors, rich history, and wide variety of ingredients. One of the defining characteristics of Mexican cuisine is its use of spices and seasonings. Chili peppers, such as jalapeños and habaneros, are the backbone of Mexican cooking.

The use of spices in Mexican cuisine is a testament to the country's rich history, as many of these ingredients were introduced by indigenous people and later influenced by European colonization. Corn is another staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine in the form of tortillas.

Famous dishes:

• Tacos
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Churros

With a history that dates back over 5,000 years, Chinese cuisine has evolved to reflect the different cultures and regions of China. One of the key elements that sets Chinese cuisine apart is its emphasis on balance and harmony. The concept of Yin and Yang, which represents the opposite yet complementary forces in the universe, is deeply ingrained in Chinese culinary philosophy.

The Chinese believe that a well-balanced meal should contain a combination of five flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and spicy Another hallmark of Chinese cuisine is its use of a variety of cooking methods. Chinese cooks use techniques like stir-frying, steaming, braising, and roasting, to create their dishes.

Famous dishes:

• Kung Pao chicken
• Dim sum
• Stir-fried rice
• Chow mein
• Xiao long bao

The first word that comes to most of our minds when it comes to Indian cuisine is spice. Some spices that are native to the land of India are turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. This use of these spices gives Indian cuisine its unique and delicious flavor. This cuisine has evolved over centuries, influenced by various factors such as trade, invasions, and regional preferences.

The arrival of different cultures, including the Mughals, Persians, and British, further enriched the food culture. There is also a vast regional diversity in India. From the fiery curries of the North to the coconut-infused dishes of the South, the flavors and ingredients used vary greatly across the country.

Famous dishes:

• Curry
• Naan
• Biryani
• Dosa and Sambar
• Butter Chicken

French cuisine is known for its elegance and artistry. Supported by its rich history and meticulous attention to detail, French cuisine has become a symbol of culinary excellence. The origins of French cuisine can be traced back to the Middle Ages when the country was known for its opulent banquets and extravagant feasts.

One of the defining features of French cuisine is its regional diversity. Each region has its own unique culinary traditions. The Alsace region has rich and hearty dishes, while Brittany is known for its delicate seafood. Besides, French cuisine has also inspired other cuisines in terms of sophistication and complexity.

Famous dishes:

• Crêpes
• Soufflés
• Coq au vin
• Bouillabaisse
• Escargots

Thai cuisine focuses on light proteins cooked with strong aromatic components and a spicy kick. Like most cultures, Thailand was also influenced by its neighboring countries like Myanmar, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. However, the strongest influence is of the Chinese.

There are cuisines within the Thai cuisine that are based on locally-found ingredients. The disputed Royal Thai cuisine has been distinguished from the local cuisine with the use of fresh ingredients and elaborate presentations. Thai cuisine places its emphasis on balancing the flavors of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Some commonly used ingredients in the food are coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers.

Famous dishes:

• Tom Yum Goong
• Pad Thai
• Green Curry
• Massaman curry

Japanese cuisine can be characterized by several key elements that set it apart from other culinary traditions. Umami, simplicity, and seasonality are a few of the elements. The food preparation method focuses more on herbs and spices along with other ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, and sake.

Japanese food puts a distinct outlook on seafood that is prepared via different cooking methods like grilling, boiling, steaming and frying. Besides, since Japanese people are notoriously health-conscious, the food is prepared with ingredients that are considered to be healthy like fish, vegetables, and whole grains.

Famous dishes:

• Sushi
• Tempura
• Ramen
• Soba

Greek cuisine reflects its rich history via food. Many recipes have been passed down for centuries, kept alive by the fresh ingredients found in the region. The food is not only a reflection of the country's rich history and cultural heritage but also a testament to the Mediterranean lifestyle. The sea provides an abundant supply of fish and seafood.

The foundation of Greek cuisine is set by olive oil, bread, and wine as staple foods used even today in many dishes. Recipes for Baklava and Moussaka were inspired by the fusion of spices, sweets, and pastries, which were introduced later in the country. There is something for everyone in this cuisine, from a simple Greek salad to flavorful sandwiches.

Famous dishes:

• Souvlaki
• Gyro
• Mousaka
• Yemista
• Baklava

Olive oil, garlic, and herbs make up the foundation of Spanish cuisine. As the world's largest producer of olive oil, it is used in many dishes throughout the country. The emphasis of the food has remained on flavors and fresh ingredients. They were eventually influenced by Europeans who entered the country during the colonization of the Americas.

Spain also shares its cooking techniques and flavors with Portugal. This cuisine influenced food in other countries like Mexico as Spanish colonies would be introduced to its food. Regional cuisines like Catalan cuisine and Andalusian cuisine differ based on the ingredients found in the area. Catalan is known for its seafood, while Andalusian exhibits Moorish influences.

Famous dishes:

• Gazpacho
• Tapas
• Croquetas
• Pulpo a la Gallega
• Paella

Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Lebanon's cuisine is a fusion of Arab, Ottoman, Persian, and French influences. This unique blend of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques has earned Lebanese cuisine the reputation as one of the most delicious and diverse in the world.

At the heart of Lebanese cuisine is a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The use of herbs, spices, and aromatic vegetables such as garlic, onions, and parsley is central to almost every dish. One of the most celebrated dishes in Lebanese cuisine is hummus. Made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this creamy and smooth dip is now enjoyed worldwide.

Famous dishes:

• Hummus
• Baba Ghanoush
• Kebabs
• Falafel

Korean culture has become global with the introduction of music and food to the world stage. It is identified by deeply rooted traditional influences. The food in the country focuses on preserving the natural flavors of ingredients. With techniques like fermentation and grilling, Korean food has become a staple in itself.

Common ingredients used in the food are rice, kimchi, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger. The cuisine is also influenced by other East Asian cultures like Japanese and Chinese. Korean also like their spice as can be found in spicy paste gochujang.

Famous dishes:

• Kimchi
• Bibimbap
• Bulgogi
• Tteokbokki

American cuisine is a melting pot of a lot of different cultures, just like the country itself. The food is influenced by a rich history of immigration and regional traditions. Before the European colonization. Native Americans cultivated crops such as corn, beans, and squash, which formed the "Three Sisters" of their diet. 

The arrival of Europeans brought a new dimension to the food. British, French, Spanish, and Dutch immigrants brought their culinary traditions, and introduced wheat, dairy products, and various herbs and spices. Today, you can find almost all the cuisines in the world within America as a result of the diverse population.

Famous dishes:

• Hamburger
• Fried Chicken
• Mac and Cheese
• Apple Pie
• French Fries

Vietnamese cuisine is a culinary delight renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. The food is representative of the geographical location and cultural diversity in the country. Some commonly used ingredients are bean sprouts, cucumber and succulent seafood.

Vietnamese people take great pride in using only the freshest ingredients, often sourced from local markets or even grown in their own gardens. Broths with aromatic spices make up some of the most iconic dishes in this cuisine. The culture of street food is extremely prevalent in Vietnam with a variety of cooking techniques.

Famous dishes:

• Pho
• Bún chả
• Bánh mì
• Ca kho to

Located in North Africa, Morocco has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors. The cuisine of Morocco is known for its bold spices, aromatic herbs, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

The extensive use of spices like cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and saffron distinguishes the food from others. These spices are often combined to create unique blends, such as Ras el Hanout, which can include up to 30 different spices. Parsley, cilantro, and mint are also used to add freshness and brightness to dishes.

Famous dishes:

• Tagine
• Couscous
• Harira
• Pastilla

The art of grilling, known as "kebab," is an integral part of Turkish cuisine. Whether skewered meat cooked over an open flame or vegetables grilled to perfection, the smoky flavors and tender textures make this technique quite popular in the country.

With a history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire, Turkish cuisine has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations. Turkey's geographical location, bridging Europe and Asia, provides a wide range of produce, meats, and spices that contribute to the Turkish dishes. Besides food, Turkey also specializes in drinks like Turkish coffee, which is quite strong and served in small cups.

Famous dishes:

• Kebab
• Meze
• Dolma
• Turkish coffee

From the traditional indigenous dishes to the influences brought by African, European, and Asian immigrants, Brazilian cuisine offers a fusion of flavors that is both unique and enticing. Since the territory spans different regions, Brazil boasts a wide variety of ingredients and cooking techniques.

The country's tropical climate allows for the cultivation of an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and exotic ingredients. With a coastline stretching over 7,000 kilometers, seafood is also a prominent feature in Brazilian cooking. Brazilian cuisine is also heavily influenced by the indigenous people who inhabited the land long before the arrival of European colonizers.

Famous dishes:

• Feijoada
• Churrasco
• Acarajé
• Moqueca
• Pastel

The communal dining style, vibrant spices, and unique flavors in Ethiopian cuisine is celebrated throughout the world. The cuisine has also been influenced by neighboring countries such as Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea, as well as by the Arabian Peninsula and India. This blend of influences has created a unique culinary identity for Ethiopia.

Some of the most common spices used in Ethiopian cuisine include berbere, a spice blend made with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other spices like mitmita and niter kibbeh. Most dishes in the country is made with vegetables and spicy meats.

Famous dishes:

• Doro wat
• Gomen
• Tibs
• Injera
• Shiro

Russian cuisine has an amalgamation of the hearty dishes of the countryside and the refined delicacies of the royal courts. It offers a unique culinary experience that is celebrated by locals as well as travelers. 

One of the defining characteristics of Russian cuisine is its emphasis on hearty and filling meals. This can be attributed to the country's harsh climate, where long winters and short summers necessitate the consumption of calorie-dense foods to sustain energy levels. The food is not only delicious but also provides the necessary sustenance to endure the cold winter months.

Famous dishes:

• Borscht
• Shchi
• Solyanka
• Pirogov
• Vatrushka

Peru boasts a culinary heritage that dates back thousands of years. The diverse geography of the country, from the deserts to the Andean mountains and the Amazon rainforest, offers a wide array of ingredients. Peruvian cuisine is also influenced by Spanish, African, and Asian cuisines while also influencing many other European cuisines.

Some of the most common spices used in Peruvian cuisine are ají peppers, cumin, coriander, garlic, and onion. Cooking techniques like grilling, roasting, and stewing are imployed by locals as well as professionals.

Famous dishes:

• Ceviche
• Lomo saltado
• Pisco sour
• Cuy chactado

As a Caribbean island, Jamaica has stunning beaches, reggae music, and a vibrant culture. As a result, people in the country also celebrate via mouthwatering cuisine. It is a fusion of various influences, including African, Indian, Spanish, and British. There is an abundant use of fresh and tropical ingredients, reflecting the island's lush climate and fertile soil. 

Some of those ingredients are Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and coconut. Spices are also an important part of Jamaican cuisine, with common ones being nutmeg, thyme and ginger.

Famous dishes:

• Jerk chicken
• Escovitch fish
• Rice and peas
• Bammy
• Guava duff

Indonesia's strategic location along the ancient spice trade routes has greatly influenced its cuisine. For centuries, traders from different parts of the world brought with them a variety of spices, such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and turmeric. As a result, these spices have become an integral part of Indonesian cooking.

Rice and noodles are two of the most commonly consumed foods in the country. These are available to eat in local eateries to street stalls and top restaurants.

Famous dishes:

• Nasi goreng
• Rendang
• Gado-gado
• Soto