Comfort Foods from Around the World: Expanding Kids’ Taste Horizons

• What’s the best thing to put into an arepa? Your teeth! 
• What’s the word for “more than one goose” in Poland? Piero-geese.

Comfort foods carry more than flavor—they bring the warmth of shared experiences, weaving together history, culture, and family traditions, and the joy of a well-loved meal. Today, we’re exploring four kid-friendly comfort foods from around the world, each offering a delicious way to introduce children to new tastes and 

the stories behind them.

Arepas (Venezuela) 

Naturally gluten-free, these Venezuelan cornmeal cakes are rooted in the country’s agricultural history. Cornmeal is a staple crop in Venezuela, so arepas began as a way to create a filling and nourishing meal with minimal resources. They can be grilled, baked, or fried and are often stuffed with local ingredients like fresh cheese or avocado, reflecting a tradition of making the most of what’s available. Many Venezuelan families still enjoy arepas daily, a practice that connects modern households with centuries-old culinary customs. 

Try: Venezuelan Cheesy Pea and Corn Arepas – crispy golden arepas that combine the sweetness of corn and peas with gooey, creamy cheese. (Kids love preparing the dough!)

Ramen (Japan)

Whether enjoyed at home or in a traditional Japanese noodle shop, ramen has earned its place as a global favorite. Soft, springy noodles bathe in a flavorful broth infused with miso or soy, and topped with anything from creamy soft-boiled eggs to colorful seasonal vegetables—what’s not to love? 

Try: Sweetly Charred Scallion Asian Ramen Noodles with Nori Crunch – this version combines smoky charred scallions with crisp nori and a subtle sweetness for a new take on ramen’s classic flavors. For those only familiar with instant noodles (e.g., “Cup Noodles”), this dish offers a taste of ramen’s full potential.

Pierogi (Poland)

Pierogi are a mainstay of Polish cuisine, enjoyed at festive holiday tables, family celebrations, and bustling street food markets alike. These tender dumplings, whether boiled for a soft chew or pan-fried to golden crispness, have symbolized human resourcefulness for generations. Historically, pierogi enabled home cooks to stretch ingredients like potatoes, sauerkraut, or fruit into hearty meals. Today, modern chefs push culinary boundaries with inventive fillings like smoked gouda and pineapple!

Try: Purple Polish Savory Cabbage Pierogi – earthy cabbage blended with a hint of sweetness, wrapped in soft dough. A reimagined take on a traditional favorite!

Shakshuka: (The Middle East) 

A dish of softly poached eggs in a fragrant tomato stew spiced with cumin and paprika, shakshuka reflects the fusion of North African and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Rooted in North African origins, it has evolved into a dish that embodies warmth and community, often served family-style with a side of freshly baked bread for dipping. 

Try: Middle Eastern Shakshuka Poached Eggs – tender eggs simmered in a rich, tomato-pepper sauce and made with fresh, accessible ingredients. This recipe stays true to its roots while offering a streamlined approach so it’s easy to recreate at home.

Want more globally inspired, kid-friendly recipes? Visit our online recipe box or explore Sticky Fingers Cooking’s® very own Global Taste Buds Cookbook, filled with fun, palate-expanding recipes that kids love!

Follow us on Social Media!