TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - There is nothing more comforting than having a hearty and warm bowl when things are going south. And, these stews from around the world stand as living testament to people’s endless craving for something so cozy. Packed with vegetables and all the right protein, these flavors are your go-to after a long day.
Best Stews From Around the World
Experts from TasteAtlas affectionately refer Iran’s Khoresh, Thailand’s Phanaeng Curry, and Malaysia’s Kari Ayam as the top contenders of the best stews from around the world, known for their interesting ingredients. Aside from these superstars, here are the other bowls on the top ten.
1. Khoresh, Iran
Khoresh, or Iranian stew, is deemed to be the world’s best one according to more than 50,000 food experts. With its aromatic species, rich flavor, and various native vegetables, the dish distincts itself from the rest. Throughout its time defying modern cuisine, khoresh remains strong thanks to family recipes across generations.
2. Phanaeng Curry, Thailand
Just like any other stew, phanaeng curry features meat and a thick texture. From many recipes, locals usually choose the likes of beef, pork, chicken, and even duck to complete the hearty bowl. Even better, its fish sauce, palm sugar, and coconut milk ingredients make a salty-sweet peanut flavor, leaving foodies satisfied.
3. Kari Ayam, Malaysia
On the third place of noteworthy stews from around the world, Kari Ayam shines with its ginger, coconut milk, cinnamon, turmeric, and pandan leaves. These unique spices blend together into a popular bowl not only in Malaysia, but also in neighboring Indonesia. To enrich the broth, people usually serve the meal in a clay pot, allowing the curry to marinate deeper.
4. Vavishka, Iran
Another Iranian stew, vavishka, is a popular dish around the Gilan province and the Caspian Sea coast, easily noticeable through its herbs. The meal’s green ingredients including chives, cilantro, and parsley reflect the region’s taste of processing fresh herbs. For the protein part, vavishka uses ranging options of beef or lamb.
5. Butter Chicken, India
The inclusion of the Indian staple dish, murgh makhani, is expected, and for all the good reasons. Originated in Delhi all the way back in the 50s, this stew now can be found nearly at all Indian restaurants.
6. Kare, Japan
When it comes to must-try stews from around the world, Japanese kare ultimately won many hearts. For the record, this gourmet dish was once served mainly for wealthy people due to its hefty price tags during its early years. But, today, the stew that has flour or roux in the broth continues its legacy with much lesser price.
7. Rendang, Indonesia
Rendang’s popularity among the best Indonesian foods extends beyond the country’s borders. Just like many signature dishes, rendang highlights slow-cooked meat with bold spices. From beef to other proteins, locals often savor the ingredients at Rumah Makan Padang. Its dry, caramelized finish and minimal sauce create layers of deep flavor, setting it apart from curry while leaving diners impressed.
8. Keema, India
With the addition of keema on the list, India proves its status as a paradise for foodies. Literally translated to minced meat in Urdu, this meal features origins from all around Pakistan, Bangladesh, and through Persian. Served with various flatbreads, locals enjoy keema’s satisfying fillings, from green peas, to minced lamb and chicken meat.
9. Hünkar Begendi, Turkiye
Turkiye’s flavorful lamb stew is believed to first be developed for the wife of Napoleon III in the late 19th century. Its purée, characterized with milk, cheese, and sometimes a tomato-based sauce, has been a favorite of many people.
10. Gulai, Indonesia
Indonesian gulai closes the list of the most favorite stews from around the world, best known for its spicy thick soup. Often hailed as the nation’s answer to curry, it embraces everything from tender cuts of meat to seafood, vegetables, or even offal.
Slowly simmered in coconut milk and fragrant spices, the dish transforms into a luscious blend with a velvety and flavorful sauce.
Stews from around the world show that every culture has its own way of serving comfort cuisine in a bowl. Whether creamy, spicy, or herb-packed, each dish carries generations of love, making them a true global treasure.
Editor’s Choice: 5 Indonesian Dishes Named Among World's Best by TasteAtlas
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