After a couple of years of restrictions that have seen many of us take a break from some of our favourite activities, 2022 should be a year in which we go back to enjoying all of the most enjoyable aspects of life. Whether it’s travelling abroad, gathering with friends or heading out for new culinary experiences, life wouldn’t be the same without a bit of adventure.

When it comes to food, you may not know where to start with so much choice. But worry not, here are five cuisines to try in 2022:

French

Some people may hear French cuisine and think of frog’s legs and snails and be put off. However, not only are these dishes both delicious, but there are so many other elements to French cooking that are definitely worth trying. France is famous for its food, using home grown ingredients to create authentic dishes that have lasted centuries.

You may find Boeuf Bourguignon in the supermarket, but packaged versions are nothing compared to a slow roasted, juicy cut of beef with some beautiful dauphinoise potatoes.

Other dishes that should be on your list include Soupe à L’oignon (French onion soup) and if you’re feeling adventurous, Steak Tartare.

Spanish

Spanish cuisine is vibrant, diverse and extremely flavourful. From light and delicate gazpacho to hearty and filling paella, Spanish cooking is delicious no matter your craving.

When trying out authentic Spanish cuisine in Barcelona, if you have excess luggage to carry, you can check luggage storage in Barcelona to safely drop your bags at Vertoe locations. You can then enjoy your meals without having to stay vigilant about them.

Spain has an extensive history of many different cultures, resulting in a wide variety of dishes and cooking methods. For example, the north of the country is famous for its seafood, and the Pyrenees produce many tomatoes, onions and peppers that fill dishes across the country.

Seafood in the country is always fresh, so Gambos al Ajillo is is popular prawn dish. Juicy, spicy prawns drowned in olive oil pairs well with Spanish wine to wash the delicate flavours. This gran cerdo tempranillo red wine is from Rioja, and is beautifully juicy and acidic; it pairs great with both roasted white meats and seafood.

Greek

Famed for its wide selection of delicious meats, seafood, cheese, pitas and filo pastry, Greek cuisine had so much to offer any palate. For years, Greek cooking has been influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures, resulting in some of the best flavours around.

Baklava is the quintessential Greek food experience, consisting of sweetened filo pastry, chopped nuts and syrup or honey. Sweet desserts such as Baklava pair well with port for a really delicious experience.

Another must-try dish is Moussaka. A creamy dish made of spiced beef or lamb, cooked in tomato sauce and drizzled with béchamel. One of the traditional Greek dishes, you’ll not be disappointed.

Korean

Korean cooking is vastly overlooked in the West but is growing in popularity. Korean barbecue spots are popping up all over, and there are many traditional dishes that you definitely need to try.

The cuisine is largely based on rice, vegetables, seafood and meats. Bibimbap has become a staple in Korean lunches, consisting of the previous, cooked with gochujang (hot chilli paste), seasoned with soy sauce, sesame seeds and a fried egg.

Mandoo (or Mandu) is served commonly at New Year’s celebrations as a symbol of good luck. Dumplings such as these can be made with pork or beef, and can be added to various dishes, from broths to rice and vegetables.

Indonesian

Over 6000 islands make up the world’s largest archipelago, resulting in many different religions, cultures and cuisines. Indonesian cuisine offers so many opportunities to try something new in 2022, purely because of the diversity it offers.

Sate is a dish popular across most of Indonesia, from street carts to dinner tables. Endless meat options from chicken, goat, beef, and tofu are grilled with peanut or soy sauce, and often accompanied by rice.

If you’re in the mood for fish, Ikan Bakar literally translates as roasted fish and is perfect for those who are eating healthy. Mixed with soy sauce, coconut oil and a wide variety of spices, it is definitely a dish you’ll return to.