15 Delicious Budget-Friendly International Dishes to Try

Cooking can be fun and delicious without breaking the bank! This collection of 15 budget-friendly international recipes showcases a variety of flavors from around the globe, making it easy to spice up your meals while keeping costs low. From comforting stews to vibrant stir-fries, these dishes are simple to prepare and will satisfy your cravings for international cuisine without the hefty price tag.

Classic Italian Pasta Aglio e Olio

Pasta Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that perfectly balances simple ingredients with incredible flavor. Made primarily with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

The beauty of Pasta Aglio e Olio lies in its simplicity. The garlic infuses the olive oil, creating a fragrant base that wraps around the pasta beautifully. The heat from the red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick, while the fresh parsley lends a pop of color and freshness. It’s a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on taste!

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic turns golden brown, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the oil and garlic mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Season: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and salt to taste. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra parsley and red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat. Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly meal!

Greek Salad with Feta and Olives

Greek salad is a refreshing mix of vibrant veggies, creamy feta, and briny olives. It’s packed with flavors that burst in your mouth, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal on a warm day. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, requiring minimal prep and just a few ingredients!

This simple salad brings together crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and colorful bell peppers, all tossed with feta cheese and olives. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano tie everything together, creating a dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean right at home!

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped cucumbers
• 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, feta cheese, olives, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Chinese Vegetable Fried Rice

Chinese Vegetable Fried Rice is a simple and delicious dish that brings a taste of home cooking to your dinner table. It’s loaded with colorful veggies and flavored with soy sauce, making it both savory and satisfying. Perfect as a side dish or a main meal, this recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand.

This fried rice is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. Feel free to add proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra nutrition. The combination of textures and flavors from crisp vegetables and fluffy rice makes every bite enjoyable!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup cooked protein (like chicken or tofu)

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the bell pepper and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Drizzle in the soy sauce and mix well, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Add the green onions and optional protein, if using, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade fried rice!

Spicy Chickpea Curry from India

Spicy Chickpea Curry is a delightful dish that packs a punch with its rich flavors and comforting texture. It’s a true staple in Indian cuisine, known for its aromatic spices and hearty chickpeas. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends.

The combination of spices creates a warming sensation that dances on your taste buds, while the chickpeas provide a satisfying bite. Serve this curry over rice or with naan for a comforting meal that won’t break the bank. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to blend.
4. Mix in the chickpeas and coconut milk, stirring well. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with rice or naan!

Turkish Lentil Soup

Turkish lentil soup, known as ‘Mercimek Çorbası’, is a warm, comforting dish that is both hearty and budget-friendly. It features red lentils, which give it a lovely color and a smooth texture, while spices like cumin and paprika add depth to its flavor. This soup is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to choice for a cozy meal.

The taste is rich and slightly earthy, complemented by the fresh squeeze of lemon and herbs like parsley. It’s perfect for any time of the year, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nourishing starter for a gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and potato, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky if you prefer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

Vietnamese Pho with Fresh Herbs

Vietnamese Pho is a warm and comforting soup that bursts with flavor. This delightful dish combines a savory broth with fresh herbs, making it both fragrant and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for any home cook looking to explore international flavors on a budget.

The combination of rice noodles, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients makes Pho a beloved option for many. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to please. Plus, customizing it with your favorite proteins and herbs adds a personal touch!

Ingredients

• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 200g rice noodles
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
• 2-star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• Salt to taste
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, mint)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Sliced chili peppers (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the beef or vegetable broth, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-30 minutes to develop flavors.
2. Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine Ingredients: Strain the broth to remove solids and return it to the pot. Stir in fish sauce and salt to taste.
4. Serve: In bowls, add cooked noodles and ladle hot broth over them. Top with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili peppers if desired.
5. Enjoy: Squeeze lime over the soup and enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Pho!

Moroccan Vegetable Tagine

Moroccan Vegetable Tagine is a vibrant dish that showcases the rich flavors of North African cuisine. This hearty stew is packed with a colorful mix of vegetables, spices, and often served with fluffy couscous. The taste is a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

This recipe is simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to include a variety of veggies in your diet. Everyone will love the warm spices and the natural sweetness of the vegetables!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Couscous for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, and green beans. Mix well and cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Include the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot over couscous, garnished with fresh parsley.

Spanish Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a refreshing Spanish soup that’s perfect for hot days. It’s a blend of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and vibrant peppers, creating a burst of flavor with every spoonful. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Just chop your veggies, blend them together, and you have a chilled soup ready to enjoy!

The tangy and slightly sweet taste of fresh tomatoes combined with the crunch of cucumbers makes this gazpacho a delightful treat. Ideal as a starter or a light main dish, it’s packed with nutrients and can be customized to fit your taste. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a budget-friendly meal that transports you straight to Spain.

Ingredients

• 6 ripe tomatoes
• 1 cucumber
• 1 bell pepper (red or green)
• 1 small red onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion into small pieces and place them in a blender.
2. Add the garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth; adjust the texture to your preference by adding a bit of water if it’s too thick.
4. Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
5. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and additional diced vegetables if desired.

Japanese Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg

Japanese ramen is a delightful bowl of flavors that combines savory broth, chewy noodles, and a variety of toppings. It’s a comforting dish known for its rich umami taste, enhanced by the addition of a soft-boiled egg. Making ramen at home can be quite simple, and it allows you to customize each bowl to your liking!

This ramen recipe is budget-friendly and can easily be prepared in under an hour. The soft-boiled egg adds a touch of creaminess that pairs perfectly with the broth, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Get ready to warm up with this delicious and satisfying bowl of ramen!

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 packs of instant ramen noodles
• 2 large eggs
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon miso paste (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Soft-Boiled Eggs: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Gently add the eggs and boil for about 6-7 minutes for a soft yolk. Remove and place them in an ice bath to cool.
2. Make the Broth: In a pot, heat the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and miso paste if using. Allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the Ramen: Divide the noodles into bowls, pour the hot broth over them, and top with sliced green onions. Peel the soft-boiled eggs, cut them in half, and place on top.
5. Season: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Mexican Street Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Mexican street tacos are a tasty and simple option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. They combine soft corn tortillas with seasoned meat and fresh toppings, resulting in a burst of flavors with every bite. Enjoying these tacos is like having a little piece of street food culture right at home!

Making these tacos is quick and straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can customize them with your favorite proteins and fresh salsa, making it an easy dish to adapt to your taste. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh salsa (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken or beef, coating it evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated meat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In a separate skillet, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few slices of the cooked meat onto each tortilla. Top with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos and add your favorite salsa. Enjoy your delicious homemade Mexican street tacos!

Korean Bibimbap with Mixed Vegetables

Korean Bibimbap is a colorful and satisfying dish that combines an array of fresh vegetables, rice, and a perfectly fried egg. This delightful meal is known for its harmony of flavors, featuring crispy vegetables, tender rice, and a touch of spicy gochujang sauce. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

This vibrant bowl is customizable, allowing you to use any vegetables you have on hand. The mix of textures and tastes creates a delightful experience for your taste buds, making it a favorite among many. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with nutrients!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup spinach, blanched
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup zucchini, julienned
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sliced cucumbers and radishes for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Sauté the carrots, zucchini, and bean sprouts in a pan over medium heat until they are tender. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Fry the Egg: In the same pan, fry the egg sunny-side up until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny.
3. Assemble the Bibimbap: In a bowl, place a serving of cooked rice at the bottom. Arrange the sautéed vegetables, blanched spinach, and sliced cucumbers and radishes on top of the rice.
4. Add the Egg: Place the fried egg on top of the vegetables.
5. Finish: Drizzle sesame oil and soy sauce over the bowl. Add gochujang to taste and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Mix everything together before eating to combine all the flavors.

Indian Masoor Dal with Rice

Indian Masoor Dal is a comforting and nutritious dish that features red lentils simmered with spices and vegetables, creating a rich, flavorful experience. The combination of lentils and rice makes it a complete meal, packed with protein and fiber. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast.

The warm spices used in this dish bring a delightful aroma and taste that will transport your senses. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank!

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
• 4 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish
• 2 cups cooked basmati rice

Instructions

1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Then, add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, carrot, turmeric, and salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. Add the rinsed lentils and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lentils are soft.
6. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the garam masala. Adjust salt if needed.
7. Serve the warm Masoor Dal over a bed of basmati rice, garnished with fresh coriander. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Filipino Adobo Chicken with Steamed Rice

Filipino Adobo Chicken is a comforting dish known for its rich, savory flavor. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, creating a deliciously tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. This dish is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners.

The key to a great adobo is allowing the chicken to soak up the marinade, resulting in tender meat and a flavorful sauce. Once cooked, serve it over fluffy steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups steamed rice for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and brown sugar. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken: In a large pot or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade into the pot with the chicken. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional sugar if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
5. Serve: Spoon the adobo over steamed rice and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Thai Green Curry with Vegetables

Thai Green Curry with Vegetables is a fantastic dish brimming with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This curry balances heat and creaminess, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without too much fuss.

With a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich coconut milk base, this dish is not only satisfying but also budget-friendly. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons green curry paste
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, etc.)
• 1 cup baby corn
• 1 cup tofu, cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the green curry paste over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and baby corn, simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cubed tofu, soy sauce, and sugar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves over a bed of jasmine rice.

Brazilian Black Bean Stew (Feijoada)

Feijoada is a hearty Brazilian black bean stew that brings a wonderful mix of flavors and textures to your table. It’s rich, savory, and slightly smoky, often featuring a mix of meats like pork and beef, along with black beans. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

The combination of spices and the addition of citrus can elevate the taste, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. Served with rice and orange slices, feijoada is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients

• 2 cups black beans, soaked overnight
• 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into cubes
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Rice, for serving
• Orange slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse and drain the soaked black beans. In a large pot, add the beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat, cooking until tender, about 1 hour.
2. In a separate pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the pork shoulder and brown on all sides. Then add the sausage, chorizo, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
3. Add the cooked beans, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Once cooked, remove the bay leaves. Serve the feijoada over rice and garnish with orange slices for a refreshing touch.