5 dishes to try before you die

If you’re lacking inspiration, here are 5 dishes to try before you die…or even by the end of the week, if you’re hungry.

As a serious food lover, I’ve always enjoyed trying lots of different cuisines. While some may not have been the best, there are many meals I’ve had that I know I’ll enjoy for the rest of my life. Whether I’ve discovered them near home or away on holiday, these personal favourites all share some similarities – beautiful flavours and beautiful memories. I hope these suggestions inspire you to go have them and create some delicious memories of your own.

Katsu curry

I first visited Wagamama around eight years ago, and couldn’t wait to try their food. Upon arrival, the restaurant’s tempting aromas filled the nearby streets, as well as the growing crowds queuing for tables. That day, I ordered a katsu curry, a bestseller and a life-changing dish. Perfectly balanced with rich flavours, its sauce is utterly addictive. It’s the only dish I ever order from them – and I now visit at least once per month! I even make my own version to enjoy at home.

Cherry Bakewell fudge

I discovered this delight on a summer’s day at a local farm shop. Lured in by the sweet smell of the stall offering samples of fudge, I was enamored with the endless flavours on offer. There I fell in love with the Bon Bons Cherry Bakewell fudge. Toothachingly sweet, its subtle almond flavours and cherry fruitiness were unbelievable, making a naughty treat definitely worth it. However, on days when I want less guilt, I also make my own version of this: almond fudge.

Vegetable chilli

Every family has a staple, classic dish. In our household, it’s vegetable chilli. A healthy dish we enjoy weekly, it’s even tricked meat eaters into thinking it contained beef! Deliciously packed with the aromas of paprika, fresh chilli and some secret ingredients, this dish certainly packs a punch and doesn’t need the meat. As a lover of Mexican food, this is definitely my favourite dish, and something everyone should experience.

Baklava

With my sweet tooth, I could easily indulge on Turkish desserts all day. From Turkish delight to baklava, there’s something about the way they make their petite, adorable sweets. The finely chopped nuts, cinnamon spices, honey and filo pastry that make a baklava are my complete idea of heaven. While sweet enough to liven up your palate, their small size makes a lighter treat and something I love when craving something sugary.

Canadian waffles

When I was in Canada, I definitely experienced some of the best breakfasts of my life. I prepared myself for busy days of skiing with lots of their delicious food. Of course, I just couldn’t resist the temptation of one of their classics: waffles. Nothing beats their freshly made taste and fluffy texture, especially when lavished with a rich blueberry sauce and an abundance of cream! Something that topped all other breakfasts I’d had, I enjoyed them every day I was there. The indulgence was definitely worth every calorie.