I Made 29 International Recipes And Liked Cooking Again

Cooking started to feel boring and hard. The same meals every day made everything less fun. Nothing felt new in the kitchen for a long time. Then came the idea to try something different with food. Made 29 international recipes and liked cooking again.

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dashi

A wooden ladle pouring fish sauce into a white ceramic bowl, with ripples visible on the liquid surface. A brown napkin is partially visible in the background.
Dashi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creating a base that packs a punch can be a game-changer in cooking. Dashi is a flavorful stock that brings life to a multitude of dishes, adding depth and richness. It’s the key to mastering many Japanese recipes, making your culinary adventures more authentic. With its unique taste, you’ll find yourself revisiting international recipes more often.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s all about combining favorite ingredients to create something special. Italian Pasta with Salami is a delicious twist that blends traditional flavors with a little extra oomph. This dish has a way of becoming a household favorite, encouraging you to explore more global meals. Let the warm and comforting smell fill your kitchen as you rediscover the joy of cooking.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crafting homemade delights offers a certain satisfaction. Sourdough Bagels are chewy and delicious, a treat for any bread lover. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these bagels can rekindle your love for baking and exploring new recipes. Their inviting texture and flavor are truly irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

A cast iron skillet filled with vegetable shepherd's pie, topped with mashed potatoes and garnished with rosemary sprigs and chopped parsley. Two spoons are placed inside.
Vegetarian Shepherds Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, it’s refreshing to try out new takes on old classics. Vegetarian Shepherds Pie is a hearty and filling meal, bringing comfort and joy without the meat. It’s all about diving into international favorites while keeping it light and healthy. Enjoy how this dish invites you back into the kitchen with enthusiasm.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing together familiar and new flavors can transform a simple meal. Korean Burgers are a tasty creation that mixes beloved favorites with fresh ingredients, offering a perfect experience. They inspire you to venture into diverse culinary paths and recreate international dishes. It’s a reminder that experimenting with cooking can be exciting and rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Dubai Chocolate

Close-up of sliced dessert bars with layers of chocolate, crumbly filling, and green topping, garnished with chopped pistachios.
Dubai Chocolate. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes, a sweet treat hits all the right notes with exotic flair. Dubai Chocolate brings a rich indulgence that resonates with deep flavors and pleasant nuances. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to explore something unique and genuinely delicious. Get ready for a dessert that sparks a passion for trying recipes from around the world again.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Chili Relleno Casserole

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish.
Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Breaking out of routine can lead to culinary surprises. Chili Relleno Casserole offers a mouth-watering mix of flavors, combining spicy and cheesy goodness in every bite. This inviting dish pushes you to embrace more diverse international favorites. Cooking it might just reignite your excitement for making new recipes from scratch.
Get the Recipe: Chili Relleno Casserole

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Adding a twist to seafood can add joy to everyday meals. Bang Bang Shrimp is all about blending fresh flavors with a creamy sauce, creating a wonderful seafood treat. It’s an inviting experience that encourages exploration of global culinary delights. Dig into the world of cooking with enthusiasm and make something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Exploring new tastes brings a refreshing change to daily meals. Tortellini Soup combines comforting pasta with a flavorful broth to make every spoonful special. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a family dinner, this dish is a reminder of the joys of international cooking.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Trying out new chicken recipes can kickstart a passion for cooking again. General Tso’s Chicken has that perfect balance of sweet, tasty, and spicy flavors, giving it a signature taste. It’s a beloved dish that’s popular worldwide, prompting you to explore more international favorites. Enjoy the process as this recipe finds a spot on your regular menu.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Food with a fun name can make cooking extra enjoyable. Marry Me Tortellini brings together creamy sauce and tender pasta in a dish that’s all about flair and flavor. Ideal for a special dinner at home, it’s a meal that encourages exploring new recipes with joy. Discover how it can become a staple in your culinary adventures, making you fall in love with cooking again.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Experimenting with beef dishes can bring a fresh wave of excitement to your kitchen. Baked Beef Tacos have that crispy, cheesy goodness that hits the spot every time. This dish pushes you to explore more flavors and textures from around the globe. Revel in the mix and rediscover cooking as an enjoyable hobby.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate.
Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Getting hands-on with cooking can be a fun way to unwind. Rice Paper Rolls are all about assembling vibrant ingredients into a fresh and engaging dish. Their lightness and versatility inspire journeys into a world of international cuisine. Making them could spark a renewed interest in crafting meals with diversity and flair.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Revisiting simple yet tasty recipes can reignite joy in daily cooking. Gnocchi offers a soft, pillowy texture perfect for comfort meals or elegant dishes. This classic pleases palates all over the world, calling you back to international recipes. Find yourself rolling these dough pieces and appreciating the art of cooking anew.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Playing with flavors can transform your meal into something memorable. Sesame Chicken carries a crunch with a hint of sweetness, making it a favorite for family dinners. It’s a recipe that’s loved worldwide, encouraging ongoing culinary exploration. Enjoy the ease of creating a crowd-pleasing dish that makes cooking enjoyable again.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Flour Tortilla

Someone placing a tortilla on a stack of tortillas.
Flour Tortilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rolling out soft and pliable rounds is an enjoyable way to rediscover how rewarding cooking can be. Flour Tortilla opens up endless possibilities for wraps, tacos, and quesadillas. There’s a real satisfaction in transforming simple dough into something versatile. This recipe will remind you how fun it can be to make international favorites at home.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortilla

Kimchi

A bowl of spicy, pickled kimchi cabbage on a light-colored surface.
Kimchi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fermenting ingredients for Kimchi is a hands-on approach to crafting bold and spicy flavors. Watching it develop over time is surprisingly rewarding. It’s something you can use in so many dishes, giving plain meals a hit of brightness. Making it might just spark your love for cooking again.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The caramelizing process for onions in French Onion Dip is a step worth the effort. Combining those flavors with something creamy creates a snack you might want to enjoy with friends or family. There’s something comforting about making such an iconic classic at home. Whipping it up could make you appreciate being in the kitchen just a bit more.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layering and baking everything for Ravioli Casserole is a process that feels more like assembling art. It’s hearty, cheesy, and made for sharing with others around the table. Preparing such a filling dish might reignite your joy in experimenting with different recipes. It’s one of those meals that leave you feeling accomplished in your cooking.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stirring together the layers of spices for Massaman Curry will get you excited about cooking flavorful dishes. Its creamy texture and fragrant aroma are what make it so unique. You’ll find yourself rediscovering how good home-cooked meals can be. This recipe feels like a great way to explore international tastes right from your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing together creamy and tomato-rich flavors for Penne Alla Vodka turns a simple dish into something exciting to serve. It has a richness that feels special for a homemade dinner. Preparing it will show how rewarding simple cooking can be when you get each step right. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to try more international ideas in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro.
Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creating rich and hearty blends in Chickpea Curry reminds you how a simple recipe can be so delicious. It’s comforting and full of warm flavors that make it easy to return to the joy of cooking. There’s a sense of accomplishment in making something nourishing from scratch. You’ll feel connected to cuisines loved all around the world.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stuffing pasta for Three Cheese Manicotti feels perfect as you piece everything together by hand. The cheesy fillings come together perfectly in a baked dish that’s comforting and warm. It’s one of those recipes that show the effort put in is always worth it. Trying it might just remind you how much fun cooking can be.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Epic Bean Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Epic Bean Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cooking up Epic Bean Chili means bringing together hearty, bold flavors into one big pot. It’s perfect for experimenting with spices and textures, all while creating a dish many love. Making it involves a lot of steps that give a sense of fulfillment as everything comes together. You might find yourself wanting to cook more after giving it a try.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Assembling bite-sized sandwiches for Italian Sliders turns a simple task into a creative cooking process. With every slider packed full of flavor, it’s great for those who enjoy international inspirations. Each piece feels like a nod to comforting recipes people love everywhere. Making these is engaging and might remind you how fun cooking can still be.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combining yogurt and fresh ingredients for Tzatziki is a quick way to make something creamy and refreshing. It’s a recipe widely loved for how versatile it can be during meals. Preparing it offers a break from the usual kitchen routines. You’ll enjoy rediscovering the art of cooking something so simple yet special.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Vegan Ratatouille

Vegan Ratatouille. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layering vegetables for Vegan Ratatouille makes cooking feel like assembling a work of art. It’s colorful, filling, and known around the globe for its homemade charm. Preparing it might give you a reason to enjoy spending more time with fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s a great dish to reconnect with cooking in a meaningful way.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tossing roasted ingredients with pasta in Pasta alla Norma highlights how simple international dishes can be a delight to prepare. Every step feels intentional as it comes together into a flavorful meal. You’ll realize how engaging pasta recipes can be by just giving it a try. Cooking it is a great way to enjoy being back in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Coating and cooking pieces for Orange Chicken brings a pop of sweetness to a dish. It’s an all-time favorite that’s both fun to make and rewarding to eat. Preparing it might spark curiosity about trying more homemade classics. This one serves as an enjoyable way to revisit cooking recipes you love.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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