10 Must-Try Vegan Dishes Around the World

Veganism is on the rise, and with it comes a growing appreciation for delicious plant-based cuisine from all corners of the globe. If you're looking to expand your culinary horizons and discover new vegan delights, you're in for a treat. From savory curries to decadent desserts, these 10 must-try vegan dishes will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

1. Falafel (Middle East)

These crispy, deep-fried chickpea balls are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. Served in a pita bread with hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables, falafel is a flavorful and satisfying street food. Many variations exist, from spicy to sweet, but all are undeniably delicious.

2. Pad See Ew (Thailand)

This stir-fried noodle dish features wide rice noodles tossed with soy sauce, garlic, and your choice of vegetables, like tofu, broccoli, and Chinese chives. It's a simple yet satisfying vegan option that showcases the flavors of Thai cuisine.

3. Tofu Scramble (Global)

Tofu scramble is a versatile dish that can be adapted to countless tastes and textures. Typically made with crumbled tofu, vegetables, and seasonings, it mimics the texture and flavor of scrambled eggs. You can find variations featuring mushrooms, spinach, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

4. Jackfruit Curry (India)

The meaty texture of jackfruit makes it a perfect substitute for chicken or pork in curry dishes. This popular vegan option is often found in Indian restaurants, featuring a blend of spices, coconut milk, and vegetables.

5. Seitan (East Asia)

Made from wheat gluten, seitan is a high-protein meat substitute that boasts a chewy texture. It's often used in East Asian cuisine to create dishes like seitan stir-fries, seitan dumplings, or even seitan steaks.

6. Empanadas (Latin America)

Empanadas, savory pastries filled with various ingredients, are a common street food in Latin America. Many traditional fillings are easily veganized, such as potatoes, beans, or vegetables. The crispy dough and flavorful fillings make for a delightful snack or light meal.

7. Vegan Sushi (Japan)

Sushi is no longer limited to seafood. Vegan sushi rolls featuring avocado, cucumber, and various vegetables are increasingly popular. Some restaurants even offer tofu-based imitation crab meat, adding a familiar flavor to the rolls.

8. Vegan Pizza (Global)

Pizza is a universal favorite, and there's no shortage of vegan options available. Many pizzerias now offer plant-based cheese alternatives, and countless toppings, from vegetables to mushrooms, create endless possibilities for a delicious vegan pizza.

9. Vegan Ramen (Japan)

Ramen is a comforting and flavorful Japanese noodle soup. Many vegan ramen varieties feature flavorful broths made from vegetables and spices, and can be topped with tofu, mushrooms, and a variety of other plant-based ingredients.

10. Vegan Chocolate Cake (Global)

No list of vegan dishes would be complete without mentioning the decadent world of vegan desserts. Vegan chocolate cake is a classic for a reason. Using plant-based milk, butter, and chocolate, it offers the same rich and satisfying experience as its traditional counterpart.

Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply curious to explore plant-based cuisine, these 10 must-try dishes offer a glimpse into the diverse and delicious world of vegan food. So get out there and discover new flavors, textures, and culinary experiences that will leave you wanting more.