Tourist Day: 6 Dishes to Make You Feel Like You’re on Vacation

June 2021 – With the recommendations against traveling due to the coronavirus pandemic, everyone’s travel plans are currently on hold. Eating a typical dish, finding the best dessert, or enjoying the city’s most famous drink still feels like a fantasy.

Since gastronomy is one of the main reasons many people travel, chef and nutritionist from the Umami Committee, Lisiane Miura, listed six dishes that can be easily prepared in the comfort of your home to celebrate Tourist Day, held on June 13. “Food brings us closer and allows us to experience another culture on a deeper level. Just choose your favorite country and get cooking. This at-home experience can be both delicious and fun,” she highlights.

Each country has its own cuisine, but despite their differences, local dishes manage to win over the most diverse palates. “The secret lies in the combination of ingredients. Many use foods that provide the umami taste—the fifth basic taste of the human palate—such as tomatoes, meats, and fish. These options enhance and prolong the flavor in the mouth, making the dishes even more delicious,” explains the chef.

Typical Dishes for a Gastronomic Trip at Home

United States (USA)
This option is very popular in Brazil, and many people are fond of it: after all, everyone loves a burger. “Every travel memory comes with a flavor. Nowadays, there are versions ranging from traditional beef and chicken to vegan options. You can serve it with French fries, or for those wanting fewer calories, simply enjoy it without the bun and with a side salad,” notes Lisiane.

Spain
For those opting for Spanish cuisine, the chef recommends paella. “It may look elaborate, but it’s very easy to prepare. The traditional dish is made with rice and various seafood, and in the case of Valencian paella, chicken or rabbit can be added, which is less common in Brazil. For vegetarians, there’s also the version with vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, peas, or chickpeas. Both peas and chickpeas are great sources of plant-based protein,” she adds.

India
One of the most aromatic cuisines is Indian. With its spices, Dahl (or Dal) is a dish made with legumes, most commonly red lentils. “It’s simple to prepare and is rich in fiber, folic acid, and also contains anti-inflammatory spices like ginger and turmeric,” explains Lisiane.

Japan
If your favorite place is Japan, add chicken katsu to your shopping list. “Also known as panko chicken, this dish can be made with pork, chicken, or tofu. Traditionally, katsu is served with rice and a Japanese sauce called tonkatsu sauce,” she comments.

Mexico
If you miss this destination, famous for its beaches and luxury hotels, prepare a delicious guacamole. “If you want a practical and tasty option, guacamole is the solution. Just mash avocado with a fork and add lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. Add diced tomato and serve with toast, bread, nachos, or tortillas,” she suggests.

Morocco
Before finishing this journey, make a stop to try Moroccan cuisine. Lisiane suggests preparing Lamb Tajine, a spicy and fruity option. “It’s a stew rich in flavors, as it includes spices and dried fruits that, when combined with lamb, create a unique experience for the palate,” she concludes.

Umami

Umami is the fifth basic taste of the human palate, discovered in 1908 by Japanese scientist Kikunae Ikeda. It was scientifically recognized in 2000, when researchers at the University of Miami confirmed the existence of specific receptors for this taste on the taste buds. The amino acid glutamic acid and the nucleotides inosinate and guanylate are the main umami substances. The two main characteristics of umami are the increase in salivation and the lingering taste that lasts for several minutes after eating. Learn more at www.portalumami.com.br.