World gastronomy is full of surprises. In some cultures, certain foods that would be unthinkable for some, are authentic delicacies. Here is a list of the 24 strangest foods on the planet that will test your curiosity (and your stomach).
1. Bird’s nest soup (Asia)
Made from the edible nests of salangana, a species of bird that builds them with its saliva. It is considered a delicacy in countries such as China and Thailand.
2. Surströmming (Sweden)
Fermented herring that emits such a strong odor that it is usually opened in the open air. Only suitable for the brave (and with a stuffy nose).
3. Casu Marzu (Italy – Sardinia)
Cheese with live larvae fermenting inside. In theory it is not legal, but it is still consumed in the traditional way.
4. Hákarl (Iceland)
Putrefied shark meat cured for months underground. Its ammonia smell is so strong that it is considered one of the most extreme dishes in the world.
5. Bat Soup (Guam / Southeast Asia)
With the whole bat floating in the broth. A tradition in some areas of the Pacific.
6. Cuy (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador)
The classic guinea pig, fried or roasted, which is part of Andean celebrations and rituals.
7. Iguana Stew (Central America)
Considered a sustainable source of protein. It is prepared with green iguana species in stews and soups.
8. Centennial eggs (China)
Egg cured for weeks or months until it acquires a black and gelatinous appearance. Strong flavor and very particular texture.
9. Escamoles (Mexico)
Ant larvae served in tacos or stews. They are known as the “caviar of the desert”.
10. Fried tarantulas (Cambodia)
Served with garlic, salt and pepper. Their texture is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
11. Kiviak (Greenland)
Small fermented birds are prepared inside the body of a seal for months. Traditional in Inuit celebrations.
12. Witchetty grub (Australia)
Giant larvae that are eaten raw or roasted. They are said to taste like nuts or eggs.
13. Frog juice (Peru)
A whipped mixture of raw frog with Andean juices and plants, sold as a natural energy drink.
14. Shiokara (Japan)
A viscous paste made with fermented squid viscera. A salty and intense flavor.
15. Bull penis soup (China)
Considered an aphrodisiac in traditional Chinese medicine. It is served cooked with spices and vegetables.
16. Sannakji (South Korea)
Raw octopus cut into pieces and served while its suckers are still moving (requires careful chewing).
17. Hakarlik lutefisk (Norway)
Dried cod and then rehydrated in lye. It has a gelatinous texture and a peculiar flavor.
18. Poutine râpé (Canada Acadiana)
A ball of grated potato stuffed with salted meat, boiled to a dense and sticky texture.
19. Tuna eyeballs (Japan)
Tuna eyes served boiled or in soups. Its gelatinous texture is only for the most curious.
20. Muktuk (Greenland)
Raw or boiled whale skin and blubber. Rich in vitamin C, it is served in thin slices.
21. Lamb or bull testicles (Several countries)
Also known as “criadsillas” or “rocky mountain oysters”, they are fried or stewed as an aphrodisiac delicacy.
22. Blood soup (Vietnam)
A cold soup made with raw duck blood mixed with herbs and cooked offal.
23. Pizza with chocolate and crickets (Various countries)
A modern and experimental version that mixes edible insects with sweet ingredients.
24. Boiled sheep’s head (Iceland, Mongolia)
Served with eyes and tongue included; it is a ceremonial dish in some nomadic cultures.
Conclusion
Food is a reflection of the culture, environment and history of each people. What may seem strange or repulsive in one part of the world may be a symbol of pride and tradition in another. These rare foods are proof that gastronomy has no borders… or limits.
