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Introduction to Antigua and Barbuda’s street food culture

Antigua and Barbuda is a small island nation in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and rich culture. Its street food culture is equally vibrant, with a variety of delectable dishes that reflect the country’s history and cultural diversity. From savory soups to sweet snacks, Antigua and Barbuda’s street food scene has something for everyone.

Saltfish and fungi: a national dish

Saltfish and fungi is a national dish in Antigua and Barbuda, and is a popular street food item. The dish consists of salted cod fish and a cornmeal-based pudding called fungi, which is similar to polenta. The saltfish is boiled and then sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, while the fungi is cooked with okra and onions. The result is a savory and satisfying dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Johnny cakes: a staple for breakfast

Johnny cakes are a staple breakfast item in Antigua and Barbuda, and are a popular street food snack. These small, fried breads are made with flour, cornmeal, and baking powder, and are usually served with butter or jam. They are a simple but delicious treat that is great for a quick breakfast on the go.

Dukuna: a sweet and spicy snack

Dukuna is a sweet and spicy snack that is popular in Antigua and Barbuda. It is made with grated sweet potatoes, coconut, and spices, and is often served in a banana leaf. The mixture is then boiled or baked until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Dukuna is a unique and tasty snack that is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Conch fritters: a seafood delight

Conch fritters are a seafood delight that is popular in Antigua and Barbuda. These bite-sized fritters are made with conch meat, flour, and spices, and are deep fried until they are golden brown. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and are often served with a spicy dipping sauce. Conch fritters are a must-try for seafood lovers.

Tamarind balls: a tangy treat

Tamarind balls are a tangy treat that is popular in Antigua and Barbuda. They are made by boiling tamarind fruit until it is soft, and then mashing it into a paste. The paste is then mixed with sugar and spices, and rolled into bite-sized balls. Tamarind balls are a unique and refreshing snack that is perfect for a hot day.

Antiguan black pineapple: a refreshing snack

Antiguan black pineapple is a refreshing snack that is popular in Antigua and Barbuda. This variety of pineapple is smaller and sweeter than the typical pineapple, and has a dark, almost black skin. It is juicy and flavorful, and is often sold on the streets as a refreshing snack.

Souse: a savory soup for the adventurous eater

Souse is a savory soup that is popular in Antigua and Barbuda, and is not for the faint of heart. It is made with pig feet or cow heel, and is seasoned with onions, peppers, and vinegar. It is a spicy and pungent soup that is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. Souse is a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Introduction: Armenian Street Foods

Armenian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Armenians have a deep love for food and a long tradition of cooking, which has resulted in a variety of delicious dishes. Street food in Armenia is no exception, offering a range of savory and sweet snacks that are perfect for eating on the go.

Lahmajoun: A Tasty Armenian Pizza

Lahmajoun is a popular Armenian street food that is often referred to as “Armenian pizza”. It is a thin, round piece of dough that is topped with minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. The dough is then baked in a clay oven until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Lahmajoun is typically served with a side of fresh herbs and lemon juice, which add a zesty kick to the dish.

Khorovats: Grilled Meat Skewers

Khorovats is a type of grilled meat skewers that is a staple in Armenian street food. It is made by marinating chunks of meat (usually beef or lamb) in a mixture of herbs and spices. The meat is then skewered and grilled over an open flame until it is tender and juicy. Khorovats is typically served with a side of fresh vegetables and lavash bread.

Gata: Sweet Bread with a Twist

Gata is a sweet bread that is a popular Armenian street food. It is a twisted pastry that is filled with a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, and flour. Gata is often flavored with cinnamon and cardamom, which gives it a unique taste. It is typically served as a dessert or a snack with a cup of hot tea.

Tolma: Stuffed Grape Leaves

Tolma is a traditional Armenian dish that is often found in street food stalls. It is made by stuffing grape leaves with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. The rolls are then cooked in a pot with a flavorful tomato sauce until they become tender and juicy. Tolma can be served hot or cold and is often accompanied by yogurt or sour cream.

Basterma: Armenian Style Beef Jerky

Basterma is a type of Armenian-style beef jerky that is a popular street food snack. It is made by coating thin slices of beef with a mixture of garlic, paprika, and other spices. The beef is then hung to dry for several days until it becomes firm and flavorful. Basterma is typically served on its own as a snack or as a topping for sandwiches.

Sujukh: Sweet and Spicy Sausage

Sujukh is a type of sweet and spicy sausage that is a popular Armenian street food. It is made by mixing ground beef with a variety of spices and shaping it into a sausage shape. The sausage is then coated with a sweet mixture of honey, molasses, and spices and hung to dry for several days. Sujukh is typically served sliced as a snack or as a topping for sandwiches.

Pakhlava: A Delicious Nutty Pastry

Pakhlava is a type of nutty pastry that is a popular Armenian street food. It is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios) and honey syrup. The pastry is then baked until it is golden brown and crispy. Pakhlava is typically served as a dessert or a snack with a cup of hot tea.

In conclusion, Armenian street food offers a wide range of delicious snacks that are perfect for those who are looking to try something new. From savory meat skewers to sweet pastries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By exploring the streets of Armenia, visitors can take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this unique and flavorful cuisine.

Introduction to Angola’s street food culture

Angola is a country located in Southern Africa, known for its rich culture and diverse cuisine. The street food scene in Angola is a reflection of the country’s mix of African and Portuguese influences. Street vendors can be found all over the country, selling a variety of delicious and affordable dishes that are popular amongst locals and tourists alike.

Acarajé: the famous Brazilian-inspired bean cake

Acarajé is a popular street food in Angola that has its origins in Brazil. It is made from black-eyed beans, which are mashed into a paste and seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices. The mixture is then formed into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. The acarajé balls are typically served with a variety of fillings, such as shrimp, fish, or vegetables, and topped with a spicy sauce made from palm oil, onions, and peppers.

Caldo de peixe: a hearty fish soup

Caldo de peixe, also known as fish soup, is a staple dish in Angola. It is a hearty and flavorful soup that is made with a variety of fish, onions, tomatoes, and spices. The fish is typically boiled in water until it is cooked through, and then the broth is seasoned with garlic, ginger, and a variety of herbs. The soup is typically served with bread or rice and is a perfect dish for a cold day.

Sopa de feijão: a flavorful bean soup

Sopa de feijão, or bean soup, is a popular street food in Angola that is made from a variety of beans, such as black beans, lentils, or chickpeas. The beans are cooked with garlic, onions, and spices until they are tender and then mashed into a thick soup. The soup is typically served with bread or rice and is a filling and nutritious meal.

Kizaca: the traditional Angolan doughnut

Kizaca is a traditional Angolan doughnut that is made from flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast. The dough is formed into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown. The doughnuts are typically dusted with sugar or served with a sweet dipping sauce, such as honey or jam. Kizaca is a popular street food in Angola that is especially popular during festivals and celebrations.

Muamba de galinha: a spicy chicken stew

Muamba de galinha is a spicy chicken stew that is popular in Angola. It is made with chicken, palm oil, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, such as garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. The dish is typically served with rice or funge, a traditional Angolan staple made from cassava flour. Muamba de galinha is a flavorful and filling dish that is perfect for a cold day.

Cachupa: the beloved Cape Verdean dish

Cachupa is a Cape Verdean dish that is popular in Angola. It is made from a variety of ingredients, such as beans, corn, vegetables, and meat. The ingredients are cooked together in a large pot until they are tender and then seasoned with garlic, onions, and spices. Cachupa is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family meal.

Conclusion: experiencing the diverse street food scene in Angola

Angola’s street food scene is a reflection of the country’s rich culture and diverse cuisine. From Brazilian-inspired acarajé to Cape Verdean cachupa, the street food vendors in Angola offer a variety of delicious and affordable dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. So, if you’re ever in Angola, be sure to experience the diverse street food scene and sample some of the country’s delicious and unique dishes.

Introduction: The Andorran street food scene

Andorra is a small, landlocked country nestled high in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. This tiny nation is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes, skiing, and tax-free shopping. However, when it comes to food, Andorra may not be the first place that comes to mind for many people. Despite its size, Andorra has a vibrant street food scene that is worth exploring for foodies.

The most popular street food in Andorra

The most popular street food in Andorra is the bocadillo de calamares, which is a sandwich filled with fried squid rings. This sandwich is a staple of Andorran street food culture and is typically served with a squeeze of lemon and aïoli sauce. The bread used for the sandwich is typically a crusty baguette that is freshly baked and still warm. The combination of crispy squid, zesty lemon, and creamy aioli makes this sandwich a must-try for street food lovers visiting Andorra.

A traditional Andorran street food: the trinxat

Trinxat is a traditional Andorran dish that can be found in many street food stalls in Andorra. This dish is made with mashed potatoes, cabbage, and bacon cooked together and served with a fried egg on top. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day in the mountains. Trinxat is a dish that has been passed down for generations in Andorra and is a staple of the country’s culinary heritage.

The ubiquitous hotdog: a street food staple

Hot dogs are a ubiquitous street food item that can be found all over the world, and Andorra is no exception. In Andorra, hot dogs are typically served with a range of toppings such as ketchup, mustard, grated cheese, and fried onions. They are a quick and easy snack that can be enjoyed on the go while exploring the country.

Churros and chocolate: a sweet street food treat

Churros and chocolate are a sweet street food treat that can be found in many places throughout Andorra. These fried dough pastries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside and are served with a hot cup of thick chocolate for dipping. This decadent snack is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth while exploring the country’s charming streets.

Other popular street foods in Andorra

In addition to the bocadillo de calamares, trinxat, hot dogs, and churros, Andorra has many other popular street food items. These include crepes, grilled meats, paella, and empanadas. Visitors to the country can explore the various food stalls and markets to sample the local cuisine and discover new favorites.

Where to find street food in Andorra

Street food can be found throughout Andorra, especially in larger towns and cities. The capital city, Andorra la Vella, has a bustling street food scene with a wide variety of options. Other popular places to find street food in Andorra include Encamp, Escaldes-Engordany, and Sant Julia de Loria. Visitors to the country can also check out local markets and festivals to find unique and delicious street food offerings.

Conclusion: Exploring Andorra’s street food culture

Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Andorra, the country has a rich and diverse street food culture that is worth exploring. From traditional dishes like trinxat to popular items like hot dogs and churros, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So the next time you find yourself in Andorra, be sure to sample some of the delicious street food offerings and discover the country’s culinary heritage.

Introduction: Algerian Street Food

When it comes to food, Algeria is a country that boasts a diverse and vibrant cuisine. From the traditional dishes served in homes to the street food sold on the bustling streets, Algerian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s history, culture, and geography. Algerian street food, in particular, is a unique blend of flavors, spices, and textures that are sure to please any palate.

Traditional Algerian Street Foods

Algerian street food is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Some of the most traditional street foods in Algeria include mechoui, brik, makroudh, shorba, and raïb. These dishes are often sold by street vendors, and their popularity is a testament to their deliciousness.

Mechoui: A Popular Algerian Delight

Mechoui is a must-try for anyone exploring Algerian street food. It is a slow-roasted lamb dish that is seasoned with a blend of traditional spices and served with bread. The meat is so tender and juicy that it practically falls off the bone. Mechoui is often served at celebrations and is a staple at weddings, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.

Brik: A Savory Algerian Pastry

Brik is a type of savory pastry that is popular in Algeria. It is made from a thin sheet of dough that is filled with a mixture of egg, tuna, parsley, and onions, and then fried until crispy. Brik can be found on almost every street corner in Algeria and is a popular snack or meal.

Makroudh: A Sweet Algerian Treat

Makroudh is a sweet pastry that is popular in Algeria. Made from semolina, dates, and honey, it is a delicious treat that is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. Makroudh is often served with tea and is a popular snack during Ramadan.

Shorba: A Hearty Algerian Soup

Shorba is a hearty soup that is popular in Algeria. Made from lamb, vegetables, and spices, it is a delicious and filling meal that is perfect for a cold day. Shorba is often served with bread and is a popular street food during the winter months.

Raïb: An Algerian Yogurt-Based Drink

Raïb is a refreshing drink that is popular in Algeria. Made from yogurt, water, and sometimes mint or sugar, it is a delicious and healthy drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. Raïb is often sold by street vendors and is a popular drink during Ramadan.

Conclusion: Exploring Algerian Cuisine on the Streets

Algerian street food is a testament to the country’s rich history and diverse culture. With its unique blend of flavors, spices, and textures, Algerian street food is a must-try for anyone exploring the country’s cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, there is sure to be something delicious waiting for you on the streets of Algeria.

Introduction to Zambian Street Food

Zambian street food is a true reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage. The street vendors in Zambia offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable foods which are a must-try for anyone visiting this beautiful country. From the staple nshima to the refreshing munkoyo, there are a plethora of options to choose from.

Nshima and Chikanda: The Staple Foods

Nshima is a staple food in Zambia and is made from cornmeal. It is a dense, dough-like substance that is eaten with various dishes. Nshima is eaten with a wide range of stews made from beef, chicken, or fish. It is often served with a side of vegetables such as cabbage, pumpkin leaves, or okra. Chikanda, on the other hand, is a vegetarian dish made from ground peanuts and vegetables such as pumpkin leaves. It is often served as a snack or a side dish.

Kapenta: The Small But Mighty Fish

Kapenta is a small freshwater fish that is a popular street food in Zambia. It is usually deep-fried and served with nshima or on its own as a snack. Kapenta is also used in stews and soups and is a rich source of protein. It is commonly found in the waters of Lake Kariba, which is shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Ifisashi: The Popular Vegetarian Dish

Ifisashi is a vegetarian dish made from a combination of vegetables such as pumpkin leaves, peanuts, and beans. It is often served with nshima and is a popular street food in Zambia. Ifisashi is a rich source of protein and is a great option for vegetarians.

Mandasi and Sweet Potato: The Sweet Treats

Mandasi is a sweet fried dough that is a popular street food in Zambia. It is a great treat for those with a sweet tooth and is often served with a hot cup of tea. Sweet potato is another sweet treat that is a popular street food in Zambia. It is boiled and served with a side of peanut butter or honey.

Munkoyo and Chibwantu: The Refreshing Beverages

Munkoyo is a traditional Zambian drink that is made from the roots of the munkoyo plant. It is a refreshing and slightly sour drink that is a popular street food in Zambia. Chibwantu is another refreshing beverage that is made from maize meal, sugar, and water. It is a great option for those who want to quench their thirst on a hot day.

In conclusion, Zambia’s street food scene offers a diverse array of delicious and affordable options. From the staple nshima to the refreshing munkoyo, there is something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to Zambia, be sure to try out some of the country’s must-try street foods.

Introduction: Street Food Culture in Albania

Albania is a small country in the Balkans that boasts a rich culinary heritage. The Albanian cuisine is influenced by the Mediterranean, Ottoman and Balkan regions, and street food is an integral part of the country’s food culture. Albanian street food is known for its delicious flavors, affordability, and convenience. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular street foods in Albania.

Qofte: The Traditional Albanian Meatball

Qofte is an Albanian meatball made with ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices. The meatballs are usually grilled or fried and served with bread, salad, or french fries. Qofte is a staple street food in Albania and is often sold by street vendors or served in restaurants. It is a popular food item for locals and tourists alike.

Burek: A Popular Albanian Pastry

Burek is a savory pastry that is a popular street food in Albania. It is made with phyllo dough and filled with either cheese, meat, or a combination of the two. Burek is baked in a large round pan and cut into triangular pieces. It is often served with a side of yogurt or a tomato and cucumber salad. Burek is a delicious and satisfying snack that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Byrek: Albanian Savory Pie

Byrek is another savory pastry that is popular in Albania. It is made with phyllo dough and filled with various ingredients such as spinach, cheese, meat, or potatoes. Byrek can be found in almost every bakery in Albania, and it is sold both hot and cold. It is a perfect on-the-go food item that is both filling and tasty.

Flija: Albanian Layered Pancake

Flija is a popular Albanian dish that is often sold as street food. It is a layered pancake made with cornmeal, flour, and water. Flija is cooked over an open fire and served hot with cheese or yogurt. It is a simple yet delicious street food that is perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.

Kokoreç: Albanian Grilled Offal Dish

Kokoreç is a grilled offal dish that is popular in Albania. It is made with lamb or goat intestines that are stuffed with seasoned offal such as liver, kidney, and heart. Kokoreç is often served with bread, salad, or french fries. It is a unique street food that is loved by many Albanians.

Lakror: Albanian Stuffed Pie

Lakror is a stuffed pie that is popular in Albania. It is made with phyllo dough and filled with various ingredients such as spinach, cheese, or meat. Lakror is usually baked in a large round pan and cut into triangular pieces. It is often served as an appetizer or a main course in Albanian restaurants.

Trilece: Albanian Three-Milk Cake

Trilece is a popular Albanian dessert that is often sold as street food. It is a three-milk cake made with condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Trilece is a moist and sweet cake that is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. It is often garnished with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Conclusion: Exploring the Tasty World of Albanian Street Food

Albanian street food is a delicious and affordable way to explore the country’s culinary heritage. From savory pies to grilled offal, Albanian street food offers a wide range of flavors and textures. Whether you are a local or a tourist, exploring the world of Albanian street food is an experience that you won’t forget.

Brussels sprouts, offal, coriander: Just thinking about these foods makes the hairs on the back of many people stand up. Many dishes polarize: either you love them or you hate them. We’ve compiled the top eight German “hate-love dishes” and explored what constitutes the disgust factor.

1. Unloved organs: innards

While in many other cultures offal is considered delicacies, most Germans disgust them. Only horsemeat is less popular. That wasn’t always the case: in the 1980s, kidneys, liver or almost forgotten dishes like tripe were still on many menus.

Where does the disgust with innards come from? In this context, some researchers speak of “invisibilization”: Although we want to eat meat, it should neither look nor taste like meat. And innards unmistakably reveal where they come from – from the animal.

Therefore, in Germany, almost only muscle meat, breast, and fillet are now for sale. Offal is quite healthy: The liver, for example, is a good supplier of potassium and iron.

2. Childhood Hate Food: Cabbage

“Chocolate is God’s excuse for Brussels sprouts,” a friend recently told me. Many people remember with horror the bitter little heads of cabbage that lay in front of them on the plate in their childhood and just didn’t get any less.

And even our parents and grandparents often wrinkle their noses at the thought of cabbage, as it was considered “poor man’s food” and its musty smell filled the hallways of apartment buildings. Disgust at cabbage is probably a mixture of both: the experience of our parents (who associate times of deprivation with cabbage dishes) and disgust at the typical smell of cabbage.

Incidentally, the particularly pronounced disgust with Brussels sprouts is often due to the fact that the small, tender bulbs become bitter if they are cooked for too long. If you want to give Brussels sprouts another chance, you should enjoy them roasted or baked: This way, the extremely healthy vegetable retains its bite but is milder in taste.

3. Innate loathing: cilantro

For some, coriander is the icing on the cake in soups and salads – for others, the herb just tastes like soap. Whether one hates or loves cilantro is said to be partly in the genes: a part of the genome that is responsible for the construction of human olfactory receptors seems to determine whether we find cilantro tasty or disgusting.

Around 17 percent of Europeans disapprove of the taste of coriander, and surprisingly the figure in Asia is even higher at 21 percent. Good news: you can get used to cilantro despite your genetic disgust. For many skeptics, a trip to Asia, for example, is the initial spark to give the healthy spice another chance.

4. Like chewing on bicycle inner tubes: Seafood

Clearly, the oyster tops the seafood hate-love scale. While it is considered chic among gourmets to slurp down the slimy mussel meat with a squeeze of lemon, many people feel horrified at the very thought of oysters.

With mussels, calamari, and scallops, as with oysters, the core of the disgust is the consistency rather than the taste. “I can chew on a bicycle inner tube right away,” is a common comment about calamari fritti – many people, on the other hand, love the special texture of grilled calamari.

Quite apart from the (possible) disgust factor, seafood can also cause severe allergic reactions – keyword histamine intolerance.

5. Ripened stench: cheese

Tilsiter, Limburger, Appenzeller: Many types of cheese have the potential to contaminate the entire fridge and bring tears to your eyes. The smellier the cheese, the better the taste – at least that’s what cheese lovers swear. For many people, just the thought of eating stinky or moldy cheese makes them want to vomit.

Microorganisms such as mold or bacteria are responsible for the cheese aroma. They break down fat and protein into smaller compounds; this produces some unpleasant-smelling substances such as sulfur.

By the way, the worst stinkers are the cheeses matured with red culture. This bacterium feeds on the proteins in the milk, producing ammonia, amines, and sulfur derivatives. Even a tiny amount is enough to give the cheese its distinctive character. The Vieux-Boulogne, also matured with Rokulturen, holds the world record as the smelliest cheese.

6. Flavor Killer: Dill

The essential oils, which provide the characteristic aniseed taste of fennel or dill, are perceived by many people as having an unpleasant taste.

The disgust with fennel may also stem from the fact that children with almost all illnesses are generally treated with fennel tea. Some of these traumatic experience continues into adulthood.

7. Not for phobics: bananas

A horror film, a nightly walk through the cemetery – there are many things a banana phobic would put up with just to avoid having to be in a room with a banana. Bananophobia, the fear of bananas, does exist and is anything but funny for sufferers.

The good news for all bananaphobes: hypnotherapy can help to overcome the deep-rooted fear – after all, bananas are one of the healthiest types of fruit.

8. Healthy taste buds: cumin

Cumin in the bread, cumin in the sauerkraut, cumin on the onion tart – does that have to be? For many people, when they bite into a caraway fruit, the enjoyment is suddenly over. The essential oils contained are undoubtedly healthy and stimulate digestion, but divide the community in terms of taste.

Fortunately, there are alternatives for caraway haters who want to “defuse” flatulent dishes: cumin, the oriental sister of caraway, makes food just as easily digestible but has a milder taste.

Iodine is an important trace element for our body. However, iodine is contained in relatively few foods. If these are consumed rarely or not at all, it can lead to an iodine deficiency and even to a disruption of thyroid function. EAT SMARTER shows you which foods you should eat to prevent iodine deficiency.

Iodine is important for the body. It is essential for the function of the thyroid gland and, among other things, is responsible for the energy turnover in the body. The German Nutrition Society recommends a daily intake of 200 micrograms for adults. In pregnant and breastfeeding women it is even up to 260 micrograms per day.

1. Sea Fish

Fish such as plaice, cod, mackerel, or pollock are rich in iodine. A portion of 100-200 grams can already cover the daily requirement of an adult (200 micrograms). Therefore sea fish should be on your menu once or twice a week. River fish such as trout or carp are also healthy, but low in iodine.
For example, try our pollock with dill potatoes or the plaice with herb coating and be inspired by many other delicious fish recipes.

2. Algae

Algae are an ideal source of iodine without fish or meat, especially for vegetarians and vegans. On average, aquatic plants contain 10 milligrams of iodine per 100 grams. They also provide many proteins, minerals, and vitamin B12, which is particularly important for vegans.
In this respect, you often eat sushi and spice up soups, salads, vegetables, or omelets as well as scrambled eggs with nori, wakame, or kombu seaweed.

3. Seafood

Mussels, oysters, lobster, or shrimp are similar to sea fish as a suitable source of iodine. They are also rich in protein and iron. Treat yourself to these foods and let our seafood recipes inspire you to come up with new variations.

4. Iodized salt

Many foods contain almost no iodine due to soil leaching. Therefore, the enrichment of table salt with iodine is very useful. Of course, the iodine intake should not come exclusively from salt and the recommended daily dose of 6 grams of salt should not be exceeded. However, use iodized table salt for the preparation of your food to support your intake.

5. Dairy products

Cheese, yogurt, and the like also contain iodine due to the enrichment of animal feed with trace elements. In addition, they provide proteins, especially in combination with cereals, for example in the form of bread or pasta. They also contain important minerals such as calcium and potassium as well as B and E vitamins. Dairy products are therefore particularly important, especially for children, and should not be missing from the menu.

6. Bread

Unfortunately, bread is not rich in iodine per se. However, it contains a relatively large amount of salt. When shopping, therefore, pay attention to the list of ingredients and give preference to bread and baked goods made with iodized table salt.

Tip: Simply bake your own bread – with iodized salt, of course. EAT SMARTER gives you tips for baking bread and shows you how you can easily make sourdough and yeast dough yourself.

7. Cold cuts

Similar to bread, sausage products such as salami, ham, and the like are not always rich in iodine, but they are also very salty. For these and other reasons, they should therefore only be eaten in small quantities. However, if you’re a fan of cold cuts, you’d rather go for those that are made with iodized salt and are as low in fat as possible.

Glutamate is notorious to many people. They do not want to consume the flavor enhancer and avoid corresponding foods. The problem: Not only do industrially manufactured products contain glutamate – it occurs naturally in foods containing protein.

Glutamate in protein foods

Small amounts of natural glutamate are found in all protein foods. Because monosodium glutamate is a salt of glutamic acid and this is found in both plant and animal protein. If the glutamate is only contained in a portion of food in this way and not as an additive, it does not have to be included in the list of ingredients.

Foods that say “no flavor enhancers added” can also contain natural glutamate. This is the case with the reference to yeast extract or tomatoes on the list of ingredients. So far it has not been scientifically known that glutamate could endanger health.

Foods with glutamate

When it comes to foods with glutamate, many people think of ready meals, packet soups, or chips. No wonder, these dishes contain plenty of glutamates, which are artificially produced in the industry. The most commonly used additive is monosodium glutamate: a white powder to which many people are allergic.

But there are also natural foods with glutamate. Parmesan cheese is the leader: It contains 1,200 milligrams of glutamate (per 100 grams), followed by beans (200 milligrams / 100 grams) and tomatoes (140 milligrams / 100 grams). With 45 milligrams per 100 grams, chicken meat has more glutamate than beef (35 milligrams / 100 grams). Very little natural glutamate contains cod with 10 milligrams per 100 grams and cow’s milk with 2 milligrams per 100 grams.

What is glutamate?

Glutamate is an amino acid that plays an important role in cell metabolism. It is produced by the human body. As a messenger substance in the brain, glutamate is important for signal transmission there. It serves as a detoxifier of ammonia and is an important nutrient for nucleotide synthesis and for rapidly dividing cells (intestinal and immune cells).

As an excitatory neurotransmitterr, glutamate is also important for motor control, learning, and memory, and for the transmission of sensory perception.

However, in larger amounts, glutamate can cause allergy-like reactions. Because today it is no longer obtained from algae, but artificially produced in huge quantities by industry. Since then there has been a lively discussion about the effect of glutamate on the body.