Exploring strange foods can be exciting, as can experiencing new cultures and flavors. Around the globe, many unusual dishes challenge conventional taste buds. Here are 15 of the world’s strangest foods and where to try them.
Hákarl – Iceland
Hákarl is a fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic dish. The Greenland shark is buried underground for several months to ferment and then hung to dry. It has a strong ammonia smell and a distinctive taste. It is often enjoyed with a shot of Brennivín, a local schnapp.
Balut – Philippines
Balut is a fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo inside. It is boiled and eaten from the shell, often seasoned with salt, chili, and vinegar. This street food delicacy is popular in the Philippines and is considered a rich source of protein.
Casu Marzu – Italy
Casu Marzu, or “rotten cheese,” is a traditional Sardinian sheep milk cheese that contains live insect larvae. The larvae are intentionally introduced to promote fermentation and give the cheese a unique texture. Due to health concerns, it is illegal in some countries but can still be found in Sardinia.
Fugu – Japan
Fugu is a dish made from the pufferfish containing a deadly toxin. It must be carefully prepared by licensed chefs to ensure it is safe to eat. The thrill of eating fugu lies in its potential danger and its delicate, subtle flavor.
Escamoles – Mexico
Escamoles are the edible larvae of ants, often called “insect caviar.” They are typically sautéed with butter and spices and served in tacos or omelets. This pre-Hispanic delicacy is known for its nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Surströmming – Sweden
Surströmming is a fermented Baltic herring known for its pungent smell. It is traditionally eaten with flatbread, potatoes, and onions. This Swedish delicacy is often enjoyed outdoors due to its strong odor.
Sannakji – South Korea
Sannakji is a live octopus, usually served chopped into small pieces and lightly seasoned with sesame oil. The pieces are still wriggling when served, providing a unique dining experience. It is a popular dish in Korean seafood restaurants.
Kiviak – Greenland
Kiviak is a traditional Inuit food made by fermenting auks (a type of bird) inside a seal skin for several months. The birds are eaten whole, bones and all, during special occasions. This dish is known for its strong, gamey flavor.
Witchetty Grub – Australia
Witchetty grubs are large white larvae that are a traditional food of Indigenous Australians. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are known for their nutty taste. They are often found in the roots of witchetty bushes in the Outback.
Century Egg – China
Century eggs are duck, chicken, or quail eggs preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, and salt for several weeks to months. The yolk turns dark green and creamy, while the white becomes a translucent jelly. They are commonly served with pickled ginger.
Huitlacoche – Mexico
Huitlacoche, also known as corn smut, is a fungus that grows on corn ears. It is considered a delicacy in Mexican cuisine and is often used in quesadillas and tamales. Its earthy flavor is similar to mushrooms and truffles.
Black Pudding – United Kingdom
Black pudding is a type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal. It is a traditional component of the full English breakfast. Despite its unusual ingredients, it is loved for its rich, savory taste.
Stargazy Pie – England
Stargazy pie is a Cornish dish made with baked pilchards (small fish) that poke their heads through the crust, appearing to gaze at the stars. The pie is filled with eggs, potatoes, and mustard. It is traditionally served during the festival of Tom Bawcock’s Eve.
Tuna Eyeballs – Japan
Tuna eyeballs are considered a delicacy in Japan and are often found in supermarkets. They are typically boiled and seasoned with soy sauce and garlic. The texture is similar to squid, and the flavor is surprisingly mild.
Fried Tarantulas – Cambodia
Fried tarantulas are a popular street food in Cambodia, particularly in the town of Skuon. The spiders are deep-fried until crispy and are often seasoned with garlic and salt. They are eaten as a crunchy snack and are said to taste like a cross between chicken and cod.
15 Things You Should Never Ever Share With Anyone
While sharing personal information has become increasingly common, it’s essential to recognize that not everything is meant to be shared with others. Some aspects of our…
15 Things You Should Never Ever Share With Anyone
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
Today’s economy is harsh! The cost of living continues to soar, rendering once-commonplace items unaffordable luxuries for many. From everyday necessities to small indulgences, some simple…
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
The 15 Hardest Parts of Growing Old That Everyone Refuses to Talk About
Growing old is a natural part of life, but it comes with its own set of challenges that aren’t always openly discussed. From physical ailments to…
The 15 Hardest Parts of Growing Old That Everyone Refuses to Talk About
15 Attractive Qualities That Make A Man Stand Out From The Others
Certain qualities distinguish exceptional men from those who seek recognition, success, and material possessions. Whether it’s their confidence, integrity, or empathy, these traits leave a lasting…
15 Attractive Qualities That Make A Man Stand Out From The Others
Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.
