Table of Contents

Curious Dishes

Hákarl

In Iceland, hákarl is a traditional dish made from fermented shark meat. The meat is hung out to dry for several months before being eaten and has a strong ammonia-like taste. 1)

Baby mice wine

In some parts of China, baby mice wine is a traditional drink believed to have health benefits. Live baby mice are drowned in rice wine and left to ferment for up to a year. 2)

Fugu

In Japan, fugu is a type of pufferfish that is considered a delicacy. However, the fish is also extremely poisonous and must be prepared by specially trained chefs to remove the toxic parts. 3)

Balut

In Vietnam, balut is a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten in the shell. The egg contains both a partially developed duck embryo and the liquid yolk. 4)

Haggis

In Scotland, haggis is a traditional dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs that is minced and cooked with spices, oatmeal, and onions. The mixture is then stuffed into a sheep's stomach and boiled. 5)

Sannakji

In South Korea, sannakji is a dish made from live octopus that is chopped into small pieces and served immediately. The tentacles can still be seen moving on the plate. 6)

Vegemite

In Australia, vegemite is a spread made from yeast extract that is very salty and has a strong flavor. It is often eaten on toast for breakfast. 7)

Balbacua

In the Philippines, balbacua is a stew made from cow skin and tendons that are cooked for several hours with spices and vegetables. 8)

Stinky tofu

In China, stinky tofu is a fermented tofu that has a strong, pungent smell. It is often served fried with spicy sauce. 9)

Cuy

In Peru, cuy is a traditional dish made from guinea pig that is roasted whole and served with potatoes and vegetables. 10)

Chapulines

In Mexico, chapulines are a type of grasshopper that is toasted and seasoned with salt, chili, and lime. They are often eaten as a snack or added to tacos. 11)

Casu Marzu

In Italy, casu marzu is a cheese that is made from sheep's milk and contains live maggots. The maggots break down the cheese and give it a creamy texture. 12)

Ackee and saltfish

In Jamaica, ackee and saltfish is a traditional dish made from ackee fruit and salted cod that is sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and peppers. 13)

Sauerkraut

In Germany, sauerkraut is a dish made from fermented cabbage that is often served as a side dish with sausages or pork. 14)

Deep-fried Twinkies

In the United States, deep-fried Twinkies are a popular fair food. The snack cake is battered and deep-fried and can be served with toppings like chocolate sauce or powdered sugar. 15)