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Top ten strangest foods worldwide

top ten strangest foods worldwide

By Batbaatar MyadagmaaPublished about a year ago 10 min read
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Top ten strangest foods worldwide
Photo by Lily Banse on Unsplash

One of the main reasons why people enjoy traveling is that it can be really enjoyable to experience the cuisines of various cultures. In a new place, even the least adventurous person is likely to find something novel and exciting.

Even if you consider yourself to have a sophisticated palate or willing to try even the most adventurous foods, you may experience a little culture shock when traveling to other countries because what you may consider delicious may be thought of as disgusting to others and vice versa.

Here are some of the strangest foods you can find around the world. Some dishes can only be eaten by those who have developed a taste for them.

FUGU

Fugu is a type of pufferfish that is considered a delicacy in Japan. However, it is also known to contain a deadly poison called tetrodotoxin, which can be fatal if ingested in large amounts.

Despite the danger, fugu remains popular in Japan, and chefs who prepare it must undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure that they can remove the poisonous parts of the fish without contaminating the flesh.

The preparation of fugu is a carefully choreographed process that involves cutting the fish into precise pieces, which are then arranged into an elaborate display. The meat is usually served raw, as sashimi, or cooked in a hot pot or stew.

Eating fugu is considered a sign of bravery and sophistication in Japan, and it is often served on special occasions or to impress guests. However, it is also an expensive delicacy, with prices ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars per serving.

Despite the risks, many people still seek out the thrill of trying fugu, and it remains one of the most famous and intriguing foods in Japanese cuisine.

BLOOD CLAMS

Blood clams, also known as "blood cockles" or "tissue clams", are a type of shellfish found in the coastal waters of many countries, including South Korea. They are known for their reddish appearance, which comes from the hemoglobin in their blood.

In Korea, blood clams are a popular seafood dish and are often eaten raw or lightly cooked. They are typically served with spicy dipping sauces or in soups and stews.

However, there have been concerns about the safety of eating raw blood clams due to the risk of infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a bacteria that can cause gastroenteritis, sepsis, and other serious health issues. To address this issue, the Korean government has implemented strict regulations on the harvesting, processing, and distribution of blood clams. For example, blood clams must be harvested from clean waters and processed under hygienic conditions.

Restaurants and vendors are also required to keep the clams at safe temperatures and properly cook them before serving. Despite these regulations, cases of Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection linked to raw or undercooked blood clams have still been reported in Korea.

Therefore, it is recommended to consume blood clams only when they are properly cooked to ensure safety.

FROG LEGS

Have you ever considered trying frog legs? This delicacy may seem unusual to some, but it's actually a popular dish in certain parts of the United States. Frog legs are typically harvested from bullfrogs, which are found in many freshwater habitats throughout the country.

They are commonly served fried or sautéed and are often compared to chicken wings or seafood. While frog legs have a long history as a food source in many cultures, they have faced some controversy in the United States due to concerns about animal welfare and the potential spread of diseases from wild populations.

Some states have even banned the sale of frog legs or restricted their harvest. Despite this, frog legs continue to be enjoyed by many adventurous eaters and can be found on the menus of some high-end restaurants. Some proponents of frog leg consumption argue that they are a sustainable and environmentally friendly protein source, as they require minimal space and resources to raise compared to other livestock.

Whether you're a foodie looking to try something new or a conservationist interested in sustainable food sources, frog legs are definitely worth considering as a unique and flavorful dish. Just be sure to do your research and purchase them from a reputable source to ensure their safety and ethicality.

CASU MARZU

Casu marzu is a traditional Sardinian cheese that is known for its unique and bizarre production process. The cheese is made from sheep milk and is left to ferment in the open air, which attracts cheese flies to lay their eggs inside the cheese.

The eggs hatch into larvae, which eat their way through the cheese and excrete enzymes that cause the cheese to become soft and creamy. While casu marzu is considered a delicacy in Sardinia, it is banned in many other countries due to health concerns.

The cheese contains high levels of live maggots, which can pose a risk of infection if ingested. To prepare the cheese for consumption, it is recommended to cover it with a cloth to prevent the larvae from jumping out and causing eye damage.

Despite the potential health risks, casu marzu has a devoted following among adventurous foodies who are willing to try this unique and controversial cheese. Some even claim that the cheese has aphrodisiac properties and is an important part of Sardinian culture.

While casu marzu may not be for everyone, it certainly is an interesting and bizarre food that has captured the attention of many.

HAGGIS

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish that has a rich history and a unique flavor. It is made by stuffing a sheep's heart, liver, and lungs into a casing made from the sheep's stomach, along with onions, spices, and oats. The mixture is then boiled for several hours until it is cooked through.

Despite its somewhat unusual ingredients, haggis has become a beloved dish in Scotland and beyond. It is often served with "neeps and tatties" (mashed turnips and potatoes) and accompanied by a dram of whisky.

The origins of haggis are somewhat shrouded in mystery, with some historians suggesting that it may have been brought to Scotland by Norse invaders or even the Romans. However, it is generally agreed that haggis has been a staple of Scottish cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back as far as the 15th century.

Haggis has become so popular that it even has its own holiday: Burns Night, which is celebrated on January 25th each year in honor of the Scottish poet Robert Burns. On this night, haggis is typically served as part of a traditional Burns supper, which also includes speeches, toasts, and readings of Burns' poetry.

Despite its strong flavor and somewhat unusual ingredients, haggis has become a beloved dish in Scotland and beyond. Whether you're a fan of hearty, meaty dishes or just looking to try something new and unique, haggis is definitely worth a try. So why not give it a go and see what all the fuss is about?

TUNA EYEBALLS

Eating foods that are considered unusual or unappetizing is not uncommon in some cultures. One such food that might seem bizarre to some is tuna eyeballs, a delicacy in many parts of the world. Tuna eyeballs are exactly what they sound like - the eyeballs of a tuna fish.

They are usually boiled or steamed and can be eaten hot or cold. Some people enjoy them as a snack, while others use them in soups or stews. But why would anyone want to eat a tuna eyeball? For one, they are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health.

They are also said to be rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and calcium. Despite their nutritional benefits, the idea of eating tuna eyeballs might be off-putting to some.

The texture is said to be rubbery and the taste is described as fishy, salty, and slightly sweet. In Japan, tuna eyeballs are considered a delicacy and are often served in high-end sushi restaurants. They are also a popular snack food in other parts of Asia, including Korea and China.

While tuna eyeballs might not be everyone's cup of tea, they are a reminder that food culture can vary greatly around the world. So next time you come across a food that seems strange or unappetizing, remember that it might be a beloved delicacy in another part of the world.

SURSTROMMING

Surströmming is a traditional Swedish food that has been around for centuries. It is a type of fermented fish that is typically made with herring that is caught during the spring months.

The fish is gutted, salted, and then left to ferment in barrels for several months. The resulting fish is considered a delicacy in Sweden, but it is known for its strong and pungent odor.

In fact, the smell of surströmming is so strong that it is often compared to the smell of rotting eggs or sewage. Despite its unpleasant smell, surströmming is considered a cultural treasure in Sweden. It is often served with boiled potatoes, onions, and sour cream, and is typically eaten outdoors due to the strong smell.

Eating surströmming can be a unique and adventurous experience, but it's not for everyone. In fact, many people outside of Sweden find the smell and taste of surströmming to be overwhelming and unpleasant.

However, for those who are willing to try it, surströmming can be a delicious and memorable experience. So, if you're feeling brave and want to try something new, give surströmming a try - just be prepared for the strong smell!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fried_spider

FRIED SPIDER

Fried spider is a delicacy that is enjoyed in certain parts of the world, particularly in Cambodia. This unusual snack has a unique taste and texture that can be quite appealing to adventurous eaters. To prepare fried spider, the spiders are first cleaned and marinated in a mixture of sugar, salt, and garlic.

They are then deep-fried until they are crispy and golden brown. One of the most popular types of spider used in this dish is the tarantula, which is a large and meaty spider that is abundant in the Cambodian countryside.

The spiders are typically caught in the wild by local farmers, who then sell them at markets to be prepared as food. Despite the initial shock value of the dish, many people who try fried spider find it to be surprisingly delicious.

The crispy exterior and savory flavor of the spider are reminiscent of other fried foods, while the meaty texture provides a unique and satisfying eating experience. However, it's important to note that there are potential health risks associated with eating spiders, as they can carry diseases and parasites.

It's crucial to ensure that the spiders are cooked thoroughly and prepared in a hygienic environment to minimize these risks. Overall, fried spider is a fascinating and unusual food that is worth trying if you have the opportunity.

While it may not be to everyone's taste, it is a prime example of the diverse and fascinating range of foods that can be found around the world.

BIRDS NEST SOUP

Bird's nest soup is a delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries in Chinese cuisine. The soup is made from the nests of the swiftlet bird, which build their nests out of strands of their own saliva.

The nests are harvested and cleaned, and then boiled to create a gelatinous soup with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. While bird's nest soup is considered a luxury food item and can be quite expensive, it is also a controversial dish due to the way the nests are harvested.

Swiftlet nests are typically harvested from caves or man-made structures, and the harvesting process can be dangerous for the workers who climb to collect them. Additionally, some swiftlet species are endangered, and the harvesting of their nests can contribute to their decline.

Despite these concerns, bird's nest soup remains a popular and highly prized dish in some cultures. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, improving digestion, and promoting healthy skin and hair.

Some people also believe that the soup has aphrodisiac properties. Whether you choose to try bird's nest soup or not, it is a fascinating and unusual food item with a long history and cultural significance. Just be sure to consider the ethical and environmental implications before indulging in this luxurious delicacy.

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Batbaatar Myadagmaa

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