Food for Thought – Passport on a Plate

Start your day the Egyptian way with ful medames, a hearty breakfast of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and cumin. This dish has fueled generations from Cairo to Khartoum, often served with warm pita and a side of eggs. It’s simple, satisfying, and steeped in history, a comfort food with ancient roots.

Chewy on the inside, crisp on the outside, pão de queijo is Brazil’s beloved cheese bread snack. Made with tapioca flour and local cheeses, these addictive bites reflect the country’s indigenous and Portuguese culinary influences. Whether enjoyed fresh from a street vendor or homemade, they’re a warm, cheesy hug in snack form.

GLUTEN FREE OPTION HERE: Pao de Queijo (Brazilian Cheese Bread) (GF) – My Gluten Free Guide

It’s lunchtime, and we’re headed to the Philippines for a meal that’s made to be shared. Sticky, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet, Filipino BBQ pork skewers bring bold flavor to the middle of your day. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, banana ketchup, garlic, and brown sugar, they’re a staple at backyard parties and bustling street stalls alike. Each bite tells a story of community, celebration, and Filipino flair.

Need a midday pick-me-up? We’re cooling off in Mexico with a glass of agua fresca, a light, refreshing drink made with fresh fruit, water, lime, and a touch of sweetness. Simple, hydrating, and endlessly customizable, it’s like summer in a glass.

As evening sets in, we’re heading to France for a comforting classic. Chicken fricassée is rustic yet refined, a creamy, slow-simmered stew with tender chicken, white wine, herbs, and vegetables. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy the simple elegance of French home cooking.

To end our journey on a sweet note, we’re digging into a pavlova, a dessert as beautiful as it is delicious. With its crisp meringue shell and cloud-like center, this fruit-topped treat is a favorite in both Australia and New Zealand (where it was first created). Light, airy, and topped with fresh fruit, it’s a refreshing way to end the day.