10 perfectly satisfying desserts from around the world
We’re all experienced that pesky feeling of fancying something sweet. You’ve finished your plate, full belly and happy heart, but that little taste of sweet satisfaction is still all you need. Around the world, there are many ways that foodies fill this void with a delicious treat, so let’s take a look at some desserts from across the globe.
Spain’s Churros
The churro is a long, thin, fried dough pastry that is coated in cinnamon sugar. Often served with warm dipping sauce like caramel or chocolate, it is the perfect after dinner treat. Stemming from the 16th century, where Spanish explorers brought churros into their culture, they evolved through experimentation with sugar cane.
India’s Kheer
In India, the Kheer is a traditional rice pudding that is made from rice, sugar and milk – often flavoured with rose water, cardamon and saffron, it is a common dessert served at festivals and special occasions in India. Its origins are bonded to religious legends and temples, with it’s popularity stemming from its religious and cultural history. This sweet treat is often served cold and is delicious!
Italy’s Tiramisu
Since the 1960’s, Italians have prided their beloved Tiramisu – yes, the delicious coffee dessert that we all know and love. The layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and liquor, its creamy mixture of cheese, egg and sugar have become a popular dessert worldwide. The tiramisu is the perfect rich treat, and is often served with port, ice wine or Moscato Rosa after dinner in Italy.
Middle Eastern Baklava
Invented in the 15th century, the baklava has roots in Turkey and Central Asia. Chopped with nuts, honey and spiced with cardamon and cinnamon, this sweet pastry is made up of tasty layers. Baklava is a renowned dessert in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries and each region has a unique spin on the dish. Baklava is usually served beside coffee or tea and is the perfect after tea treat.
Brazil’s Brigadeiro
First created in Rio de Janeiro, the brigadeiro became national icon. This simple but scrumptious dessert consists of condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder, coated in chocolate sprinkles and rolled into small balls it is often served at parties and social events in Brazil. Now, there are several recipe’s throughout South America on how this should be made and served.
Japan’s Mochi
Though it is thought that this dessert in fact stemmed from China, the Japanese dessert is made up of rice moulded into a sticky paste and filled with favours such as strawberry, matcha, red bean pastes or sesame. As early as the 10th century, various flavours of mochi were used at religious ceremonies – today, the dessert is a popular dessert across Asia and is often served during Japanese New Year.
Australia’s Pavlova
In Australia, it is thought that chef Herbert Sachse is said to have created the pavlova in 1935. Thought some believe it is named after the famous Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova – this dessert originated in New Zealand. Made up of meringue, whipped cream and fresh fruits like passionfruit or kiwi, it’s dewy, zingy flavour is the perfect post-dinner treat in Australia.
Latin America’s Flan
Flan dates to ancient Rome where egg was used to create sweet dishes. Today, due to heavy Mexican influence, the creamy dessert has evolved to be a Latin American delicacy. Made with eggs, vanilla and sugar, the rich and custardy dessert is served with caramel sauce and is a staple dish for Latinos.
Middle Eastern Knafeh
Some believe that Knafeh originated in 15th century Egypt – now, considered a traditionally Middle Eastern dessert it is made up of phyllo dough, syrup and sweet cheese. Often enjoyed on Ramadan, the gooey treat is a Middle Eastern national treasure.
UK’s Old English Trifle
This simple, yet delicious English dessert has been a British favourite for over 300 years. Made with sponge cake, jelly, custard whipped cream and berries it is a staple dessert in the United Kingdom. Whether it be a Sunday roast, an after Christmas pud or a summers evening, this dish will be brought out after tea.
Desserts are a universal love language. From creamy and decadent puddings to refreshing and fruity treats, cultures around the world have their own special way of tickling those taste buds and grabbing something sweet after any meal.