17 adventurous dishes you thought grandma would never approve of but she totally loved

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If you’re ready to shake things up in the kitchen, these international dishes might surprise you. They may seem a little bold, but even Grandma will find herself enjoying every bite. From different spices to new ingredients, these recipes are full of flavors from around the world. Don’t be shocked when she asks for seconds.

Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This dish features juicy chicken minced and seasoned with a blend of spices, then shaped into kebabs and grilled. It takes about 35 minutes to make, combining chicken with herbs like parsley and cilantro. The result is a savory and flavorful bite with a smoky, charred finish. Serve with rice or pita, and Grandma won’t be able to resist.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Baked Oat-Crusted Cod Fillets

A plate with a piece of bread and a salad.
Baked oat-crusted cod fillets. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Cod fillets are coated in a crispy oat crust and baked to golden perfection in about 30 minutes. The oats add a hearty crunch while keeping the fish moist inside. With simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and lemon zest, it has a light, fresh taste. Even Grandma will appreciate this healthy yet satisfying take on fish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Oat-Crusted Cod Fillets

Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Overhead view of sockeye salmon in cast iron pan.
Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sockeye salmon is pan-fried until the skin crisps up beautifully, taking about 20 minutes from start to finish. The natural richness of the salmon is enhanced by a touch of garlic, lemon, and parsley. The flavor is bold yet simple, perfect for a quick dinner. Grandma won’t believe how tasty this no-fuss dish is.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

One stuffed pepper on platewith pot in background.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ground turkey is mixed with vegetables, rice, and spices, then stuffed into bell peppers for a delicious meal. Ready in about 50 minutes, these peppers are tender and packed with savory flavor. The turkey is lean but juicy, and the peppers add a natural sweetness. Grandma will be reaching for seconds of this wholesome dish.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chicken breasts are smothered in a rich five-spice cream cheese mixture and baked in just 35 minutes. The cream cheese adds a smooth, velvety texture, while the five-spice blend provides a warm, aromatic taste. It’s a comforting dish with a bit of a twist that pairs well with veggies or rice. Even Grandma will love this creamy, flavorful chicken.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Middle eastern rice bowl close up.
Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Crispy tofu is served over fluffy rice with a drizzle of Middle Eastern spices in this vegetarian-friendly dish. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare, and the combination of cumin, coriander, and paprika gives it a bold, fragrant taste. The tofu is crispy on the outside but soft inside, making it surprisingly satisfying. Grandma may not be used to tofu, but she’ll be impressed by the flavors.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce

White fish fillets on a white plate with lemon wedges and fork.
Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This white fish dish is cooked in a light white wine sauce that enhances its delicate flavor. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and includes ingredients like garlic, shallots, and a splash of lemon for brightness. The fish remains tender and flaky, while the sauce adds a subtle richness. Grandma will appreciate how elegant and simple it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce

Ajiaco Chicken Soup Recipe

Bowl of chicken Ajiaco soup.
Ajiaco Chicken Soup Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ajiaco is a Colombian chicken soup packed with potatoes, corn, and a blend of herbs for a deeply comforting meal. It takes about 1 hour to cook, creating a rich, hearty broth that’s both filling and flavorful. The chicken becomes tender, and the potatoes add a creamy texture. Grandma will love the homestyle warmth this dish brings to the table.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Chicken Soup Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta

Side view of baked feta pasta on a plate.
Baked Feta Pasta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This baked feta pasta is a creamy, tangy dish that combines roasted tomatoes, feta cheese, and pasta, all baked in about 40 minutes. The feta melts into a sauce with the sweet, blistered tomatoes, creating a savory and rich taste. It’s an easy, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Even Grandma will be surprised by how good this trendy recipe tastes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks on a plate.
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These chicken drumsticks are marinated in a zesty Colombian spice mix and baked until crispy in about 1 hour. The marinade, made with garlic, cumin, and lime, adds a punch of flavor that soaks into the meat. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a crispy exterior. Grandma will devour these flavorful drumsticks in no time.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Creamy Salmon

Grilled salmon and potatoes on a baking sheet.
Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This dish features tender salmon baked in a creamy sauce that’s ready in 30 minutes. The sauce, made with cream, garlic, and herbs, adds richness to the naturally flavorful fish. The salmon stays moist and delicate, making it a comforting meal without being too heavy. Grandma will definitely enjoy every bite of this creamy, indulgent salmon.
Get the Recipe: Baked Creamy Salmon

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

A hand holding a crispy fried chicken drumstick.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This buttermilk-soaked fried chicken is cooked in the air fryer for a crispy, golden exterior with less oil. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, with tender chicken inside and a crunchy, flavorful crust. The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken juicy while the air fryer does all the work. Grandma won’t miss the deep-fried version once she tries this.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich

A plate with a burrito and skewers on it.
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These baked turkey kofta patties are spiced with cumin, coriander, and garlic, then tucked into a warm pita. The dish takes around 40 minutes to prepare, with the turkey remaining juicy inside while crisping up on the outside. Paired with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce, it’s a satisfying meal. Grandma will appreciate how flavorful and healthy this is.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich

Spicy Tofu Tacos

Side view of tacos on a plate, one with bite taken out.
Spicy Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These tacos feature crispy tofu seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving them a spicy kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, the tofu is paired with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa. The result is a satisfying taco with bold, smoky flavors and plenty of texture. Grandma may not expect tofu in a taco, but she’ll be won over by the taste.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Cheesy hashbrown topped casserole in baking pan.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This dish is a hearty casserole version of the classic sloppy joe, made with ground beef, cheese, and a savory tomato sauce. It takes about 50 minutes to prepare and bakes into a bubbly, cheesy comfort dish. The beef is rich and flavorful, while the sauce adds a slight tanginess. Grandma will love this new twist on a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie

Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chicken pot pie is filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust. It takes about 1 hour to bake, making it the perfect comfort food. The combination of the buttery crust and savory filling creates a balanced, satisfying meal. Grandma will feel right at home with this timeless classic.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Piccata

Creamy chicken in a cast iron skillet with capers.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Litlle House Big Alaska.

Chicken piccata is made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a tangy lemon-caper sauce, ready in about 30 minutes. The zesty lemon and briny capers give the chicken a bright, refreshing flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Grandma won’t believe how simple and delicious this elegant dish is.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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