Eileen FongI have a confession. I love McDonald’s. Despite all the hoo-haa around the health issues, I’m going to remain a sucker for those Extra Value Meals.
McDonald’s is a global brand and it’s available in more than 120 countries around the world. With influences from every continent and a diversity of cultures and cuisines, it’s no wonder that their menu has such different varieties depending on your geographical location. As a Singaporean, I’ve always wished I didn’t have to fly 7000 miles for my McSpicy. In random order, these are some of the most unique McDonald’s items you’ll find today!
Please note: Many of these items are seasonal or promotional and may not be available year-round.
1. McKroket (Netherlands)
The McKroket is a meat ragout patty covered in breadcrumbs, which is subsequently deep-fried and sandwiched between classic buns. It is a permanent and popular item on the Dutch menu. They also offer a “Meatless McKroket” for a vegetarian option.
2. Seaweed Shaker Fries (Asia)
Seaweed Shaker Fries remain a popular promotional item in many Asian countries, including Singapore, where they are often brought back during special occasions like Chinese New Year. They are golden crispy french fries coated with seaweed seasoning.
3. Samurai Pork Burger (Thailand)
The Samurai Pork Burger, with its pork patty marinated in teriyaki sauce, is a staple on the Thai McDonald’s menu. It is a permanent and popular item.
4. Double McKofte Burger (Turkey)
The Double Köfte Burger, which is a heavily spiced kebab-like patty, is still a feature on the Turkish menu, reflecting the country’s local cuisine.
5. Double Bulgogi Burger (Korea)
The Bulgogi Burger, with patties marinated in Korea’s favourite Bulgogi sauce, remains a popular permanent item on the menu in South Korea.
6. McSpaghetti (Philippines)
The McSpaghetti, with its classic spaghetti and perfect tomato sauce, served with crispy chicken on the side, is still a unique and beloved permanent item on the menu in the Philippines.
7. Poutine (Canada)
A Canadian classic, McDonald’s Canada offers their own twist on poutine: a dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and a rich, brown gravy. This item is a permanent menu fixture and even has a spicy buffalo chicken version available in Quebec.
8. Dosa Masala Burger (India)
Catering to the country’s large vegetarian population, McDonald’s India offers the Dosa Masala Burger. This unique burger features a patty made from mashed potatoes and peas seasoned with spices like turmeric, a nod to the popular South Indian dish, dosa.
9. McFalafel (Egypt)
In a move to embrace regional cuisine, McDonald’s in Egypt and some other parts of the Middle East have offered McFalafel. This item consists of deep-fried falafel balls, a popular Middle Eastern dish, and is often served with toppings like tomatoes, lettuce, and sauces.
10. McPops (France)
A delightful dessert option, McPops are small, bite-sized doughnut-like treats that are a unique addition to the French menu. They’re often filled with a variety of sweet sauces and are perfect for a quick, shareable treat.
11. Bubur Ayam McD (Malaysia & Indonesia)
Translating to “McDonald’s Chicken Porridge,” this item is a savoury rice porridge topped with shredded chicken, ginger, and fried shallots. It is a popular breakfast and comfort food dish in both Malaysia and Indonesia.
12. Big Rösti (Germany)
This hefty burger is a German exclusive. It features two beef patties, bacon, cheese, and a creamy cheese sauce, with a golden Rösti (a type of potato hash brown) as the star ingredient, all served on an oat-topped bun. It’s a true feast.
As you can see, you should perhaps pay a visit to the local McDonald’s when you’re travelling to a new country. While it may be (largely standardised) fast food, their special items will tell you something about local culture (and they also look delicious)!
Contributed by peregrinate with me.
