15 Iconic Dishes You Have to Try in Their Country of Origin

12. Portugal – Pastel de Nata (Lisbon)

Golden, crispy, and filled with silky, caramelized custard, the pastel de nata is Portugal’s most beloved pastry, and no trip to Lisbon is complete without trying one. These egg tarts were first created by monks in the early 18th century, using leftover egg yolks from starching laundry. The perfect pastel de nata has a shatteringly crisp pastry shell, a creamy, slightly caramelized custard center, and a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar on top. For the ultimate experience, head to Pastéis de Belém, where the original secret recipe has been guarded since 1837.