At the start of this year, I made it my mission to try out all my local restaurants' varying cuisines. My partner and I realized there were so many great places to eat nearby that we'd never been to. We had it all mapped out - we'd go to a restaurant every Friday night. We were both excited. Then lockdown hit, and restaurants started to close.

I was still determined to test new cuisines on my own. But when I checked out a few recipes, they were so complicated and like nothing I'd ever made before. I was ready to give up until a friend recommended HelloFresh, a delivery box that delivers ingredients to your doorstep every week.

All the recipes looked so delicious. But how easy would it be? And would it be worth it? But when I saw how affordable HelloFresh was, it piqued my interest. Plus, having the ingredients for my chosen recipes at my door would be convenient, and I'd avoid the grocery store.

The meals take approximately 30 minutes to cook as everything is pre-portioned, and there's very little prep involved. This would make things ten times easier. I can even skip a week or cancel my subscription at any time, so I thought I might as well try it out.

Here are the top 5 favourite international recipes from HelloFresh:

1. Coconut Chicken Curry

Thai cuisine was entirely new for me, so I didn't know what to expect, but this dish did not disappoint. The high-quality chicken was juicy and the sauce super flavoursome. I was surprised at how simple it is to cook with HelloFresh!

2. Mexican Black Bean Tacos and Tomato Pepper Salsa

When I order Mexican, I go with a burrito. So I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy the Tacos, but these are so yummy and have the perfect amount of spice. They're much easier than I expected to prepare. HelloFresh makes it super simple without sacrificing flavour.

3. Chinese Salt & Pepper Chicken

The Chinese food I usually eat is from the greasy take-out down the street. Don't get me wrong, it tastes fantastic, but I hope that HelloFresh would help me find healthier alternatives. And this dish is a perfect example. It still has a salty and spicy taste that you'd want from a Chinese meal, without being greasy.

4. French Sheet-Pan Turkey Almondine

I don't know much about French cuisine (other than baguettes), and I don't eat Turkey very often. So, I'll admit I was apprehensive about whether I'd like this dish. But it's so tasty. The Garlic Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans went so well, and the Almondine sauce makes the Turkey juicy and tender.

5. Korean Gochujang Sugar-Glazed Shrimp

I was super excited to try this dish as I love Korean food but never cooked it myself. It's surprising how simple it is to cook, and - as usual with HelloFresh - it took less than 30 minutes! Its sweet and fresh flavours are delicious and did not disappoint.

If you're interested in sampling or learning to cook new international cuisines, I'd highly recommend HelloFresh. Their menu has so much variety (25 recipes a week to choose from!), the food is delicious, the service convenient, and eliminates dinnertime stress. It starts at just $9.69 per serving!

I'm so glad I took the plunge. Check out HelloFresh; you won't be disappointed.

Update: The folks at HelloFresh are extending a special offer to our readers! Follow this link to get 6 free meals including free shipping