While pizza is a universal favorite, several other dishes could take its crown for the ultimate comfort food. This list introduces 10 alternatives that might make you reconsider your loyalty to pizza.
Table of Contents
1. Dumplings
Known by many names worldwide, dumplings are a cultural staple in countless countries. Something about these little pockets of deliciousness makes millions come back for more. "Pierogis, gyoza, samosas, jiaozi, gnocchi, ravioli; Every culture's got a dumpling!" explains one foodie. "I've never encountered a dumpling I didn't immediately devour and enjoy immensely."
2. Fresh Baked Bread
As one attests, people aren't shy about their love for freshly baked bread. "Universally, people will give up their firstborn for a hot fresh slice of whatever their local bread is with butter," expresses one father, who hopefully has never traded his child for a slice of bread. I can't imagine how many children have been abandoned every Sunday morning in France!
3. Potatoes
The best part about potatoes is their versatility. From French fries to potato chips, from loaded baked potatoes to mashed potatoes, this vegetable is famous worldwide! Many people place it above pizza in importance because it's found in every culture's cuisine — and every iteration is delicious. Get the recipe
4. Cheeseburgers
Cheeseburgers are prevalent everywhere, and the best part is that each country has its own variations! One of my favorite things to do while traveling is taste-testing a particular region's burger and comparing it to others I've had on my trip. Surprisingly, during my latest stint in Europe, I discovered Croatia makes an excellent burger!
5. Fried Chicken
Like burgers, each culture proudly has its own spin on classic fried chicken. From American-style fried chicken smothered in gravy to Korean fried chicken packed full of flavor and spice, there are versions of this favorite everywhere you look. Fortunately, it's a relatively inexpensive food, which helps drive its overwhelming popularity.
6. Shrimp
Hot on the heels of pizza's popularity is the ubiquitous shrimp. One person lays it all out for us. "Shrimp is the fruit of the sea," declares one man. "You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, saute it. There's shrimp-kabobs, shrimp creole, shrimp gumbo. Pan-fried, deep-fried, stir-fried. There's pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, and shrimp sandwich. But that's about it." I thought I was the world's biggest shrimp fan, but this guy's got me beat!
7. Chocolate
The ultimate dessert, there are near-limitless ways to indulge in this delicious treat. In many parts of the world, chocolate is not only a delicacy; it's a commodity. So, while its cost can vary depending on which country you're in, one thing remains constant: Everybody loves chocolate, regardless of age, creed, or gender!
8. Fried Rice
You can't have a list of the most popular foods worldwide without including fried rice. This simple, delicious dish originates in Asia, but most people have enjoyed it countless times! "The world is populated with approximately 60% of Asian people," explains one woman. "So while pizza dominates in Western countries, it doesn't even come close to the most popular food for most of the world." Get the recipe
9. Ice Cream
Like many other foods on this list, ice cream is popular because it's delicious, and many consider it a treat, but let's be honest: The abundance of sugar helps, too. Whether it's called gelato, ice lollies, sorbet, or countless other names, this dessert brings smiles to anyone's face when they start eating it.
10. Ramen Noodles
This famous noodle dish is popular for one reason: It presents arguably the best value proposition of any food in the world. Not only are ramen noodles cheap, but they're mind-blowingly delicious. Even the most basic noodles can be easily elevated by adding fish sauce, eggs, vegetables, or anything else you can think of! If you're getting hungry while reading this, you're not alone. I'm right there with you.
Source: Reddit.
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