10 Street Foods To Make At Home

Some of my favorite travel meals have come from a roadside grill, a busy market stall or a little stand with a line of hungry locals. There’s something irresistible about food cooked right in front of you, especially when you can smell it long before you reach the counter.

These ten street food recipes bring that excitement home. From sticky Japanese chicken skewers to crispy tacos and fragrant falafel, they’re a delicious way to take your dinner routine somewhere new.

Halal Cart Chicken and Rice

Juicy, spice-marinated chicken gets piled over fragrant yellow rice and drizzled generously with creamy white sauce. A little hot sauce and fresh salad give this New York street cart favorite a delicious balance of heat, crunch and creaminess. Grab some warm pita and get a little of everything in each bite.

Get the Recipe: Halal Cart Chicken and Rice

Yakitori

Juicy chicken thighs and scallions grill on skewers with a glossy homemade sauce that caramelizes around the edges. These Japanese favorites pack plenty of sweet, salty flavor into every bite. I make mine on a regular gas grill, so there’s no special equipment needed.

Get the Recipe: Yakitori

Pupusas

These Salvadoran corn cakes are stuffed with creamy refried beans and melty cheese, then cooked until golden with lightly crisp edges. Serve them hot with tangy curtido and salsa roja for a delicious contrast to the rich filling. They’re the kind of snack that quickly turns into a meal.

Get the Recipe: Pupusas

Birria Tacos

Tender, slow-cooked beef and melted cheese fill corn tortillas that crisp up in the flavorful fat from the birria. The best part is dunking them into the rich consommé before taking a bite. These are wonderfully messy tacos worth setting aside an afternoon for.

Get the Recipe: Birria Tacos

Currywurst

Browned bratwurst gets sliced and covered in a tangy homemade curry ketchup in this German street food favorite. Serve it over fries or with crusty bread to catch that delicious sauce. It’s a simple combination with a whole lot of personality.

Get the Recipe: Currywurst

Falafel

Chickpeas and generous handfuls of fresh herbs turn into golden falafel with crisp outsides and tender, flavorful centers. Tuck them into warm pita with vegetables and tahini, or serve them with your favorite dips. They’re especially irresistible fresh from the pan.

Get the Recipe: Falafel

Pinchos de Pollo

These Puerto Rican chicken skewers get plenty of flavor from an adobo and sazón marinade before hitting the grill. A brushing of barbecue sauce gives them a delicious caramelized finish. I love serving them with toasted bread perched on the skewer, just like the street vendors do.

Get the Recipe: Pinchos de Pollo

Bun Cha

Caramelized pork patties and browned pork belly come together with delicate rice noodles, fresh herbs and a bright, tangy dipping sauce. This Hanoi favorite is all about getting a little of everything in each bite. Set out the components and let everyone build their own delicious bowl.

Get the Recipe: Bun Cha

Arepas

These golden corn patties have mozzarella mixed into the dough, making them delicious even before you add a filling. Split them open and tuck in shredded meat or cheese, or enjoy them warm on their own. They’re surprisingly easy to make and wonderful fresh from the skillet.

Get the Recipe: Arepas

Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Lemon, garlic and oregano give these tender chicken skewers their bright Greek flavor. Enjoy them straight off the skewer or wrap them in warm pita with cool tzatziki and fresh vegetables. It’s amazing how much flavor a simple marinade can bring to dinner.

Get the Recipe: Greek Chicken Souvlaki