If there’s one thing that unites all people, it’s food. Everybody likes to eat. However, Texarkana, despite its abundance of American and Mexican options, is deprived of several other cuisines that many cities have the luxury of eating and bonding over. Based on a student poll, our town is in need of cuisine from various continents, with a diverse mix of sweet and savory flavors prevalent throughout the list. 

1. Ramen
While everyone is familiar with its microwaveable version, few of us have found the opportunity to try authentic Japanese noodle soup. Quality ramen is comprised of several toppings, including boiled eggs, meat and scallions. Its nearly boiling broth comes in pork-bone, soy and miso bases. This dish is incomplete without its namesake wheat noodles known as ramen. Combining these elements creates a complex balance of flavors sure to bring in curious eaters.

2. French
Despite being one of the most culturally iconic countries, the cuisine of this European state is nearly nonexistent in our area. French food offers dishes for every meal of the day. The French are adept in their appetizers, serving up cheese fondue and escargot as starters. Crepes and souffles are both versatile dishes, delicious in both sweet and savory versions. Their plethora of breads, such as baguettes and brioche, are delectable any time of the day.

3. Brazilian
A Brazilian steakhouse, in its simplest terms, is a carnivore’s dream buffet. The meal’s price is established upon entrance. From then on, waiters will come to your table offering you a variety of Brazilian meats and snacks. Typical delicacies include lamb, flank steak, pork sausage and black bean stew. It’s all-you-can-eat premise is the economic advantage of this South American cuisine.

4. German
The mention of this country is sure to conjure up images of traditional German pretzels and sausages, both items Texarkana needs more of. Depending on the specific type, German sausage can include combinations pork, liver, beef or blood. Traditional soft pretzels or bretzels, are served with melted cheese and salt along the streets of this lively country. Additionally, Germany is renowned for its black forest cake. This dessert is a chocolate cake enhanced with indulgent servings of whipped cream and cherries.

5. African
Somehow, our town has managed to neglect an entire continent in its eating endeavors. Barbecued meat, including chicken and spicy sausage, are staples of South African food. Mozambique seasons their chicken with a blend of nutty coconut milk and a spicy regional sauce. If you travel North, Egypt boasts a rice based dish containing “lentils, macaroni, garlic and chickpeas” and “a spicy tomato sauce topped off with fried onion,” according to CNN’s article “15 of Africa’s Favorite Dishes.” No country in this continent can do wrong in its cooking.

6. Pub Food
British pub grub often shares the same food philosophy as the American South — everything’s better when it’s fried. One of this country’s most beloved, protein-packed snacks is the Scotch egg. This is a hard boiled egg wrapped in a breadcrumb coated layer of hearty sausage. Other delicacies include the world-renowned fish and chips, a fried fish fillet served with french fries. More adventurous eaters can order black pudding. Although the name indicates it to be a sweet dish, the entree is actually sausage made of pork blood and spices.

Despite how strange these dishes may seem, they can be enjoyed by all. Don’t squeal at the mention of blood in your sausage. Don’t flinch at the idea of snails in your starter. They are both much more appetizing than they sound. Don’t cling on to your burgers and burritos because there are many more options in the world to explore.