10 Recipes for the World Cup Kickoff

At a time when most soccer (or, as one should say, football) fans are busy obsessing over match times, big screens, and office betting pools, we simply look at the list of FIFA's top-ranked teams and think about the foods they represent. As lithe athletes from all over the world converge in São Paolo, they leave some delicious national cuisines behind. Which is where we come in: to place them in an edible ranking of our own (even if it's not the most culturally authentic).

No matter who we’re rooting for, we can all sit down to the same table and enjoy something delicious. Here, then, are some of the top-ranked teams in this year's tournament -- with recipes to match. 

1. Spain: Spanish Tortilla by Amanda Hesser

2. Germany: Hot Dogs with Fake Sauerkraut Relish by Queen Sashy 

3. Brazil: Blackberry Caipirinha by MissGinsu

4. Portugal: Caul-do Verde (Portuguese Caldo Verde with Cauliflower) by Bogre

5. Argentina: Chimichurri Lamb Chops by CoconutsandCardamom

6. Switzerland: Aged Cheddar and Pilsner Fondue by darksideofthespoon

7. Uruguay: Carne Asada con Rajas by Waverly

8. Italy: Marcella Hazan’s Tomato Sauce with Onion and Butter by Genius Recipes

9. England: Naughty Rhubarb Scones by Midge

10. Greece: Mrs. Z’s Secret Ingredient Baklava by cookbookchick