Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into a mouth-watering journey around the globe? CNN has released its list of the top 10 best foods in the world for 2024, and trust me, it's a culinary adventure you don't want to miss. From savory sensations to sweet indulgences, let's explore what makes these dishes stand out and why they've earned a spot on this prestigious list.

1. Massaman Curry (Thailand)

At the pinnacle of CNN's best foods list sits Massaman Curry, a Thai dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This isn't your typical fiery Thai curry; Massaman is known for its mild heat and rich, aromatic profile. What sets it apart? The unique blend of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and cumin – spices more commonly found in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. These spices were introduced to Thailand centuries ago through trade, and they've been masterfully incorporated into this delectable curry.

The base of Massaman Curry typically includes coconut milk, potatoes, onions, peanuts, and a protein of choice, often beef, chicken, or lamb. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a creamy and comforting dish that's both satisfying and complex. The addition of potatoes and peanuts gives it a hearty texture, making it a substantial meal. The subtle sweetness from palm sugar balances the savory elements, while a touch of tamarind paste adds a hint of tanginess.

Massaman Curry is more than just a meal; it's a cultural experience. It reflects the historical influences and culinary adaptations that have shaped Thai cuisine. Whether you're enjoying it in a bustling Bangkok street market or a high-end restaurant, the experience is always memorable. So, if you're looking to explore the world's best foods, starting with Massaman Curry is definitely a wise choice. Its unique flavor profile and comforting nature make it a standout dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll understand why it's consistently ranked among the best.

2. Neapolitan Pizza (Italy)

Next up, we have the iconic Neapolitan Pizza from Italy. This isn't just any pizza; it's a culinary art form with a history that dates back centuries. Neapolitan pizza is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. The dough is made from just four ingredients: wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. It's kneaded by hand and left to rise slowly, which develops its unique flavor and texture. The pizza is then cooked in a wood-fired oven at extremely high temperatures (around 900°F or 480°C) for no more than 60 to 90 seconds.

The toppings are equally important. Traditional Neapolitan pizza comes in two main variations: Margherita and Marinara. Margherita is topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese (preferably fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella), fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil. Marinara, the simpler of the two, features San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil. The result is a pizza with a thin, slightly charred crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and a delicate balance of flavors.

What makes Neapolitan pizza so special? It's the combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the traditional cooking method. The high heat of the wood-fired oven gives the crust a unique texture – crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. The simplicity of the toppings allows the flavors of the ingredients to shine through. Eating a Neapolitan pizza is an experience that engages all the senses, from the aroma of the wood smoke to the satisfying crunch of the crust. It's a true taste of Italy that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world.

3. Chocolate (Mexico)

Moving on to something sweet, we have Chocolate from Mexico. Now, before you think of your favorite chocolate bar, let's go back to the origins. Chocolate's history in Mexico is rich and deeply intertwined with the ancient cultures of the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations. For them, chocolate wasn't just a treat; it was a sacred and ceremonial beverage. Cacao beans were highly valued and even used as currency.

The traditional preparation of chocolate in Mexico involved roasting the cacao beans, grinding them into a paste, and mixing them with water, spices, and chili peppers. This resulted in a bitter and spicy drink, far different from the sweet milk chocolate we know today. The Aztecs believed that chocolate had mystical properties and used it in religious rituals and royal feasts. It was a drink reserved for the elite members of society.

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they encountered this unique beverage. Initially, they found it bitter and unpalatable, but they eventually began to add sugar and other sweeteners to make it more appealing to European tastes. From there, chocolate spread throughout Europe and eventually evolved into the sweet confection we enjoy today. However, in Mexico, the traditional methods of preparing chocolate are still alive and well. You can find artisanal chocolate makers who use ancient techniques to create unique and flavorful chocolate products. So, next time you enjoy a piece of chocolate, remember its rich history and its origins in the ancient cultures of Mexico.

4. Sushi (Japan)

Sushi from Japan claims the fourth spot, and it's easy to see why. This meticulously crafted dish is a testament to Japanese culinary artistry. Sushi is more than just raw fish and rice; it's a balance of flavors, textures, and presentation. The key to great sushi is the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, high-grade fish is essential, as is perfectly cooked and seasoned sushi rice.

The preparation of sushi is a precise and delicate process. Sushi chefs undergo years of training to master the art of slicing fish, preparing rice, and assembling the various types of sushi. There are many different styles of sushi, including nigiri (slices of fish on top of rice), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish served without rice). Each type requires its own set of skills and techniques.

One of the most important aspects of sushi is the balance of flavors. The rice is seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt, which gives it a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. The fish provides a rich and savory element, while the wasabi and soy sauce add a spicy and salty kick. Eating sushi is an experience that engages all the senses, from the visual appeal of the presentation to the satisfying taste of the perfectly balanced flavors. It's a dish that has earned its place among the world's best foods.

5. Peking Duck (China)

Peking Duck from China is a culinary masterpiece that deserves its spot on CNN's list. This dish is renowned for its crispy skin and succulent meat. The preparation of Peking Duck is a lengthy and meticulous process that requires specialized skills. The duck is typically air-dried for several days to remove moisture from the skin. It is then glazed with a mixture of maltose syrup and hot water, which gives it its characteristic shine and crispness.

The duck is roasted in a special oven that allows the skin to crisp up evenly without drying out the meat. The traditional way to serve Peking Duck is to slice the skin into thin, crispy pieces and serve it with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce. The meat is then served separately, often stir-fried or used in soup. Eating Peking Duck is a multi-sensory experience. The crispy skin provides a satisfying crunch, while the succulent meat melts in your mouth. The sweet bean sauce adds a touch of sweetness, and the scallions provide a refreshing contrast. It's a dish that's both elegant and delicious, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting China.

6 - 10: The Remaining Culinary Delights

The rest of CNN's top 10 list includes:

6. Hamburger (Germany): A classic comfort food that's loved around the world.
7. Penang Assam Laksa (Malaysia): A tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup.
8. Tom Yum Goong (Thailand): A hot and sour soup that's bursting with flavor.
9. Ice Cream (Global): A sweet treat that's perfect for any occasion.
10. Chicken Muamba (Gabon): A rich and flavorful stew made with chicken, palm butter, and spices.

So there you have it, folks! CNN's list of the top 10 best foods in the world for 2024. From the savory depths of Massaman Curry to the sweet indulgence of chocolate, this list offers a culinary adventure for every palate. Which of these dishes are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments below!