The Exotic Teapot

I would like to ask my diverse group of friends over for dinner. I thought it would be unusual to serve one dish from each of our cultures. Attending will be 2 Japanese friends, 1 Canadian, 1 German, 2 Italians and 2 Australians. I know I can find most recipes but am in a dilemma as to how to narrow down the selection. I am hoping that someone on this site can provide me with some suggestions as to their favorite main entree, or soup, or dessert, or salad or pasta from any of these countries in order for me to come up with a great tasting international menu.

Aussie Pies would be a great choice! These are meat pies wrapped in pastry. You can use any type of meat such as beef, lamb or chicken. The pies can made as an appetizer or main entrée. Each pie includes a complimentary sauce according to the choice of meat and select few vegetables. They are made with pie crust or puffed pastry.

Sushi would be a wonderful addition. You can purchase it prepared the same day of your dinner at a gourmet food market. Or if you prefer a side dish, steamed Japanese rice!

Tiramasu for dessert would certainly be a consideration to include as an Italian offering. It is not difficult to prepare and should be made in advance. It is comprised of Ladyfingers, or sponge cake, which is soaked in espresso and layered with sweetened mascarpone and shaved chocolate. I have never met anyone that did not like the flavors.

There are some great German side or vegetable dishes such as German potato salad (I think the warm is best) or Kartoffel-Kloesse (a potato dumpling). A German salad that you can make in advance is the Gurken Salat (cucumber salad). Hope this helps

Sockeye (salmon) and pickerel (walleye) fish are plentiful in Canada. Smoked fish with maple is a favorite. These three items are major industries in Canada and sold to their US neighbors in large quantities. Smoked salmon can be purchased at most gourmet food stores. If you have a main entrée, consider biscuits served with maple syrup.