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The ICC World Cup frenzy has begun in India, as 10 teams are competing against each other to win the coveted title of One Day International World Champions! The teams are playing to go all the way to the final and win the World Cup in front of a huge crowd in the Narendra Modi stadium, Ahmedabad. India just one its first match against Australia in front of an in front of an enthusiast Chennai audience. While we all are getting caught up in the rush of the tournament, munching and eating our favourite foods is a huge part of the overall experience. So, this World Cup, why not try out the most popular dishes of all the participating countries to enjoy and learn something new?
The 10 countries participating in the ICC World Cup are India Pakistan Sri Lanka Bangladesh Afghanistan Australia New Zealand, South Africa, England and the Netherlands. Let us take a look at the most popular dishes of these countries one by one, some of which are also their national dishes.
Pakistan - Nihari:
Recipe - Cook with Lubna
Nihari is a slow-cooked stew made with tender pieces of meat, often beef or mutton, simmered in a rich and flavourful broth. It's typically served for breakfast or as a special treat during religious holidays like Eid. Though not an official national dish, Nihari holds a special place in Pakistani cuisine, celebrated for its flavours that are a result of multiple influences from Delhi, Afghanistan and Persia. This dish is supposed to give an energy boost in the morning.
Sri Lanka - Rice and Curry:
Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its spicy and diverse flavours. A traditional meal typically consists of rice accompanied by a variety of curries made from vegetables, lentils, and various meats or seafood. Coconut milk, chilli, dried Maldive fish and spices like cinnamon and cardamom are common ingredients in Sri Lankan curries. This is Sri Lanka’s most popular and iconic combination.
Bangladesh - Hilsa Curry:
Hilsa fish, known as "Ilish" in Bengali, holds a special place in Bangladeshi cuisine. This dish of Bangladesh, also popular in India’s West Bengal, is often prepared as a spicy curry with mustard paste, mustard oil, turmeric, and fresh green chillies. The fish's delicate flavour, unique aroma and soft texture make it a culinary treasure in the country, and it's especially popular during the monsoon season. It is paired with plain steamed rice.
Afghanistan – Qabili Palau:
Recipe - Authentically Afghan
Qabili or Kabuli Palau is a famous Afghan dish featuring long-grain rice cooked with tender chunks of lamb, raisins, carrots, and a subtle mix of aromatic spices, such as cardamom and cloves. The dish is often garnished with slivered almonds and pistachios, giving it a nice sweetness and crunch. It's a symbol of Afghan hospitality and is traditionally served at weddings and special gatherings.
Australia – Fish n’ Chips:
This iconic meal consists of battered and deep-fried white fish, typically cod or haddock, served alongside thick-cut, golden-brown French fries. What makes it truly special is the contrast between the crispy, seasoned batter and the tender, flaky fish within. Often accompanied by mushy peas and a splash of malt vinegar, fish and chips delivers a satisfying combination of flavours and textures.
New Zealand - Meat Pie:
The meat pie is a savoury pastry filled with minced meat, often beef, in a rich gravy. It's a beloved comfort food and meat pies can be found in bakeries and cafes across the country. These pies are also very popular in New Zealand, with gourmet as well as ready to eat, packed meat pies available across the country. Pay and ode to the country that India has not defeated in an ICC tournament since 2 decades and have a meat pie!
South Africa - Bobotie
Bobotie is a South African dish with Cape Malay origins. The dish originated due to Dutch settlers and the first known record of it is found as long back as 1609. It consists of spiced minced meat, often lamb or beef, mixed with raisins, traditional curry spices, and topped with an egg-based custard. The dish is baked until the custard forms a golden crust, creating a nice blend of sweet and savoury flavours.
England – Chicken Tikka Masala:
Our very own chicken tikka masala is the national dish of the United Kingdom let us even said that the best chicken tikka masala is found in London. how did that happen? Well, the dish was created by a Bangladeshi Chef working England, whose customer complained of the chicken being dry. He created a tomato gravy to go with it and hence came the iconic chicken tikka masala.
Netherlands – Stamppot:
Stamppot is a traditional Dutch comfort dish that epitomizes the Netherlands' hearty and simple cuisine. It typically consists of mashed potatoes blended with vegetables like kale, endive, or carrots. The mixture is cooked together until the vegetables are tender, then mashed. Stamppot is often served with a sausage, such as rookworst, and a generous portion of gravy. It's a beloved meal, especially during the colder months, offering warmth and comfort to Dutch tables. So, in honour of Netherlands becoming one of the teams to reach the World Cup main stage by leaving behind 2-time champions West Indies, let us try this different kind of mashed potatoes.
India:
India is full of culinary gems and there are several dishes that we can try. But if we want to pick and choose one dish that is eaten all over the country – from North to South to East and West – its khichdi. It may take different shapes and forms, but khichdi remains a comfort meal for all of us. So, if you are too engrossed in the game and do not want to cook a heavy meal or order from outside – you know what to do! A one pot meal of khichdi is good enough!
