Visiting a foreign country, to me, is an opportunity to explore much more than what my eyes can see.

It means listening to the sounds in the streets – the  voices and unique rhythms of a place, enjoying local music, meeting people and sharing stories and perspectives, and tasting new-to-me foods.

That’s why I love markets and local street food vendors so much.  You are always likely to find many different things in one place, most vendors – at least produce and dried fruit and nut vendors – are willing to give you a sample in order to gain your business, and, most importantly, you get to see what the locals eat.  And if you are cautious of ingredients – you can at least see what is going into a dish as it’s made in front of you and gesture to exclude things you don’t want.

Plus, it is a bit of a challenge.  Not only do you have to be open to trying things that you may not recognize and give up on the idea of tidily-packaged foods prepared in sterile environments, it forces you to interact with people using basic words or hand gestures to get your question, or your bottom line, across.  In other words, it can take a sense of adventure, a strong stomach, and a willingness to be uncomfortable at times.

Challenge aside, visiting food markets is  one of the best ways I know of to experience a place.  Here are some of the food finds we ran across along the Silk Road:

By the way, one of my favorite street vendor dishes was grilled whole squid.  It was so tender and delicious!  They skewer it, marinate it, and then grill it kebab-style.  I haven’t yet come up with a marinade recipe, but I intend to try.  At the moment, I’m thinking it should include liquid coconut aminos, rice wine vinegar, tomato paste, garlic, and chilies.  If you have any tips, please send them my way.