Cuisine is a crucial element of every culture. To truly immerse yourself in a culture, you need to sample the regional cuisine. As you travel worldwide, you might encounter dishes that seem strange to you but are considered wonderfully exotic locally. This is no overstatement. Some of these foods might seem very bizarre to you. We’ve compiled a list of 50 such unusual foods. Take a look at our list below and consider which one you would dare to try.
Frog Legs (French Cuisine)
We are starting the list with frog legs. This indicates how unusual this list will be. Frog legs are consumed in various parts of the world, but they are most popular in France. Their flavor resembles a blend of fish and chicken, and their texture is similar to chicken wings. Although the taste isn’t unpleasant, the thought of eating frog legs is what repels many people. For this reason, only the most daring travelers attempt to try this dish.
Big-bottomed Ants – Hormigas Culonas (Colombia)
If you are planning to visit Colombia soon, this is one delicacy you should definitely try—Hormigas Culonas or big butt ants. These are quite popular in Colombia. While their taste may not be the best, they are packed with proteins. Most people who have tried them say they taste earthy. They are roasted before being eaten, giving them a crunchy texture. One fascinating aspect of big butt ants is that each one is handpicked. They may not be suitable for the dinner table, but they make an amazing snack.
Guinea Pig (Ecuador)
Guinea pigs are commonly kept as pets, which makes it difficult for some people to try this dish. However, if you find yourself in an exotic restaurant in Ecuador, you should definitely look for Cuy on the menu. Cuy, or Guinea Pig, tastes like a blend of pork and rabbit. The whole Guinea Pig is roasted and served as is. You can even see its teeth on the roasted Guinea Pig. Travelers enjoy the taste and texture of Cuy Guinea pigs.
Casu Marzu (Italy) is a cheese known for its unique fermentation process.
Casu Marzu is literally translated to
rotten cheese
Known as maggot cheese, it is quite popular in Sardinia, Italy. It has a strong flavor, so those who prefer milder cheese might not enjoy it. Holes are made in the cheese and it is left outside so flies can lay their eggs in the openings. As the eggs hatch, the larvae consume the cheese, transforming pecorino cheese into Casu Marzu. This cheese is eaten while the maggots are still alive, making it unsuitable for the squeamish.
Balut (Philippines)
Balut eggs contain a 2 to 3 week old duck embryo and are quite popular in the Philippines. The embryo is consumed directly from the eggshell. A small incision is made in the shell to access the broth, which you sip through this opening. Many people enjoy the broth because it tastes like chicken soup. The challenging part follows. When you begin eating the embryo, you can feel the duck’s soft bones and feathers. Since it is still an embryo, the bones have a very tender texture. After finishing the soft bones, you encounter the yolk, which also has a great taste. It’s definitely a unique experience, and if you visit the Philippines, it’s something you should try at least once.
Century Egg, also known as preserved egg or hundred-year egg, is a Chinese delicacy.
The next unusual dish on our list is the century egg from China. Century eggs are also called Pidan or hundred-year eggs. They resemble spoiled eggs. While most would be inclined to discard these eggs, there are individuals in China who consume them with great pleasure. The preparation involves covering the eggs in clay, salt, and ash, and allowing them to age for several months. During this time, the yolk becomes dark green and develops a strong odor. Nevertheless, people still enjoy eating them. Strange, isn’t it?
Locust Insects (Myanmar)
Locust bugs are commonly available in various markets across Myanmar. Locals seem to enjoy them, though they are not typically favored by tourists. These bugs are fried and can be tough to chew. When you bite into one, a gooey liquid from inside the bug may burst into your mouth, which can be quite unpleasant for some people. Additionally, the flavor of locust bugs is often considered unappetizing.
Large Ant Eggs & Raspberry in Laos
This dish can be found in several high-end restaurants in Laos. The giant ant eggs have a mild flavor, but the addition of raspberry sorbet enhances the experience. The dish has a crunchy texture, and when you bite into the eggs, they release a creamy liquid into your mouth. It has a very sweet flavor and is often served as a dessert.
Live Octopus (Korean dish)
We’ve all felt the urge to resist food cravings, but with Sannakji (Live Octopus), you’ll have to battle your meal itself. Some might find it unpleasant, but those who try it often end up enjoying it. The octopus isn’t really alive—it’s chopped up, seasoned, and the tentacles continue to move on your plate. It’s a distinctive experience. The taste is excellent, with a texture that’s slightly crunchy and chewy.
Cambodia: Crocodile Meat Curry
This dish is one of the most popular and cherished in Cambodia. Few places on earth offer crocodile cuisine, but in Cambodia, you can enjoy some incredible crocodile-based dishes. Crocodile Amok is favored by both locals and tourists. It has a soupy and creamy consistency, and its taste is similar to chicken, but slightly better and more exotic. Once you try it, you will likely want to experience it again. So, if you ever find yourself in Cambodia, be sure to try this amazing dish, as it’s not something you can easily find elsewhere in the world.
Basashi (raw horse meat) in Japan
Japan offers a variety of unique and exotic cuisines. While sushi is often the first thing associated with Japanese food, visiting the country reveals a plethora of other intriguing dishes. One such example is Basashi, which is raw horse meat. This tender dish is a favorite among travelers, and due to its delicacy, Basashi tends to be more expensive than many other typical dishes found in Japanese restaurants and markets.
Spanish Blood Sausage (Morcilla)
Blood sausages known as Morcilla are prepared using cooked pork blood. Although the sausage has a very dark color, it tastes delicious. Some may find the idea of eating blood off-putting, but after trying it, you’ll likely want to have it again. The sausages have a smooth and creamy texture, and rice and onions are also included in the mix to enhance the flavor.
Insects Fried as Bugs (Thailand)
Yet another insect-related dish on our list. Fried insect dishes are found all across Southeast Asia, but fried insects in Thailand are particularly renowned worldwide. Near the famous Platinum Mall in Bangkok, you can discover an entire market selling these. A variety of insects are fried and sold there. If you’ve never tried insects before, it might seem unappealing, but once you try them from this market, you might want to continue experimenting. With so many different insects offered, describing their taste and texture can be challenging. Some are crunchier, while others are soft. However, they all taste delicious.
In Vietnam, Coconut Worms
Coconut worms are available in supermarkets across Vietnam. These worms are actually beetle larvae that develop inside coconuts. Although the coconut itself becomes inedible, the worms are considered a delicacy in Vietnam and are enjoyed by both locals and tourists. They can be fried, but some prefer to eat them raw. It is also believed that they can boost a man’s sexual prowess, which is another reason many people throughout Vietnam purchase these coconut worms.
Oman’s ox head
Don’t be daunted by the Ox head. You might find it unusual, but once you try this unique yet succulent dish, you may just become fond of it. The Ox head is seasoned with spices, cooked, and then enjoyed as a delicacy. In Oman, the ox head is slow-cooked for two days, just like other meats. This method of preparing meat is called Shuwa in Oman. It is one of the most delicious dishes you will ever experience. It’s not just the ox head itself, but also the cooking method and the spices used, that all contribute to the dish’s flavor.
Rats in India.
If you have ever been to India or have Hindu friends, you’re likely aware that they are often vegetarians. However, rat roast is a common dish eaten by tribes in Northeast India. Despite having a rubbery texture, it tastes similar to chicken. Rat roast is typically prepared during tribal festivals or even small family gatherings. Salt and chili are added to enhance the flavor. Although it tastes like chicken, some people simply cannot imagine eating a rat.
Turkey Chicken Breast Dessert
Turkey is widely known for its baklava dessert, but another dessert that doesn’t receive as much international attention is the Chicken Breast Dessert. Known as Tavuk Göğsü, it contains rice, shredded chicken breast, and milk.
This is a delightful treat for those who enjoy creamy desserts, as it has a rich milky texture. It originates from the Ottoman period and is a well-loved delicacy across Turkey. If you’re a fan of milk and chicken, you’ll likely enjoy this too.
Though it may seem unusual to some, after trying a bite, you’ll understand why it is cherished by the Turkish people.
Grilled Tarantulas – Siem Reap
A quarter of the world’s population consumes critters, and the residents of Siem Reap are no different. For instance, grilled tarantulas are a delicacy that locals enjoy. Firstly, because they are flavorful, and secondly, because they require fewer resources like water to prepare.
Don’t worry; these critters don’t resemble insects in taste at all. When you take a bite, you’ll find it almost tastes like barbecued chicken. Naturally, the legs are crunchier and crispier than any piece of chicken.
If you’re looking to try something unusual yet delicious, grilled tarantulas are an excellent option.
Tuna Eyeballs – A Specialty in Japan
Fish eyes are not a new invention. People have been consuming them since the 1990s, and they are very popular in Eastern Asia and Japan. That’s why you can find tuna eyeballs in most grocery stores.
Although they may not seem very appealing, they actually don’t taste too bad. Their flavor is similar to that of a boiled egg. You can also combine them with other sides to enhance their taste further.
In Japan, people eat these regularly. They are not considered a delicacy but are a part of the local cuisine and culture. If you want to experience the same, be sure to give them a try.
Unusual Street Food – China
China boasts one of the best street food scenes globally. On these streets, you’ll encounter the most unusual and delicious foods. For instance, you can come across scorpions, octopuses, deep-fried sheep penis, and roasted critters like centipedes.
While not every dish is a Chinese delicacy, tourists frequently enjoy photographing them nonetheless. If you’re fond of trying adventurous and unusual foods, you will thoroughly enjoy wandering these streets and tasting the various delectable offerings. From seafood to insects and critters, there’s something for everyone. It’s a dream come true for adventurous food enthusiasts.
Brain Curry – India
Brain curry is ubiquitous in India and is a favorite among the locals. If you’ve never tried it, you might find its texture unusual compared to most foods. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but once you get accustomed to it, you’ll love it and become hooked quickly. The locals believe that brain curry offers numerous health benefits. Along with samosas, chaat, and paav bhaji, brain curry is a dish that all tourists should try. It will capture your interest.
Beondegi Silkworms – South Korea
These are often referred to as grilled silkworms and are a well-known delicacy in South Korea. You can find them on the streets and at every festival, as they are a widely favored food. The silkworms are grilled in a wok and served on toothpicks in a cup.
The flavor is quite distinctive, and you can recognize these silkworms by their aroma on any street. They have a unique smell that can be noticed from a distance. If you’ve never tried them before, it might take a while to get accustomed to them.
Flying Fox in Vanuatu
In some parts of Australia, flying foxes are considered a delicacy, although they are rarely offered to tourists. Just a handful of restaurants serve them to visitors. The flavor is mild, often compared to game meat or chicken.
The meat contains many small bones, so it’s important to know the correct way to eat it. Nevertheless, due to concerns about COVID-19, many people are hesitant to try flying foxes. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you might consider trying them at least once.
Purple Blue Tacos – Mexico
Who doesn’t love tacos? This popular Mexican street food has numerous variations. In Mexico, corn comes in many colors, including purple.
When you visit Mexico, make sure to try these tacos. You’ll also find some made with blue tortilla shells. They have a distinct taste that you’ll learn to appreciate. The locals cherish all kinds of corn and their diverse flavors.
Each type offers a unique taste you won’t find elsewhere, as corn is a fundamental crop in Mexico.
Curacao Green Rum
Green rum is a lesser-known Caribbean delicacy made from spices and herbs. It has a strong anise flavor, so it is perfect for those who enjoy this taste. Created in the 1950s, it has remained popular ever since.
This green drink is offered at many bars, and you will enjoy experiencing this flavor. It can be served as a shot, with coconut, or on the rocks, depending on your personal taste and preference. There are many options to choose from. When you are in Curacao, make sure to try this green rum.
Pequi – Brazil
Brazil is a central place for fruits. Pequi is a fruit with a yellow-orange color. The distinctive feature of this fruit is that it is always cooked and never consumed raw. It’s important to note that the pit has numerous sharp spines protruding from it.
Because of this, it’s always advisable to learn how to eat this fruit properly before trying it. You’ll be shown the correct method to enjoy it without getting hurt by the spines. Once you learn the proper way, you’ll find this fruit incredibly delicious. Ultimately, if you visit Brazil without trying its fruit, you’re missing out.
The Delightful Camel Patty Burger, Morocco
In Morocco, one of the more popular food items is dishes made with camel meat. Camel patty burgers are considered to be quite exquisite and have a delicious flavor. They are served with the usual onions, tomatoes, and lettuce, similar to other types of burgers.
Camel meat is known to be quite costly, so you’ll find that you’ll have to pay a considerable price to enjoy this dish. You’ll also discover various versions of these camel patty burgers, differing in the sauces and fillings they come with.
High Protein from Mopane Worms in South Africa
It is widely known that worms are rich in protein. This is why Mopan worms are a popular food choice in South Africa. They may not be the most visually appealing food, but they provide a high level of protein, which is important for human consumption.
In terms of taste, they are quite salty. As for the texture, that varies. They are very crunchy when fried or dried, but they can also be consumed raw.
The Durian Fruit from Southeast Asia
When people mention the Durian fruit, there are generally two reactions from consumers: they either adore it or detest it. It has a unique taste and smell, making it not to everyone’s liking. Nearly everyone will have a different experience when trying this fruit.
The fruit, spiky on the outside but soft on the inside, is quite controversial. It is banned in many public places and hotels. Therefore, you won’t commonly see people consuming it on the streets or anywhere else outside of designated areas, mainly due to its odor.
Chapulines, commonly referred to as Mexican Grasshoppers
Mexican cuisine is quite extensive, offering a wide range of food items. One thing that might surprise you is the consumption of fried grasshoppers. That’s right, grasshoppers. They are usually fried and seasoned with salt and other spices, resulting in a flavorful taste. Chapulines, the term for Mexican grasshoppers, are often found in tacos, and you can definitely have a taco with this as the main ingredient. They have a crunchy and crispy texture, and you’ll likely find that the grasshopper legs can get stuck in your teeth.
Pickled Sour Swallows from Laos
Another unusual food item you might come across is the sour pickled swallows of Laos. They are regarded as one of the most exotic delicacies to try. A distinctive aspect of them is that they are made only seasonally, so they aren’t available all year.
The small birds are captured as they migrate in large flocks during the months of August and September. Therefore, you will find them available during this period. After the feathers are removed, the birds are fermented and then fried for consumption. You can also find them available in a stew form.
The Hot Vit Lon in Vietnam
You might have heard of the balut egg, which is a developing bird embryo that people eat. Well, Hot Vit Lon is a similar option but consumed slightly earlier. In this case, the duck egg is fertilized for just 15 days before it’s eaten.
You’ll notice that the yolk has a unique flavor, and it’s not entirely unpleasant in terms of taste. However, it’s not for everyone, as some people may experience a gag reflex when trying this type of egg. If you’re adventurous with food, you should certainly give it a try.
The Mexican Jungle Rat Highlighting Its Droppings
People explore a variety of things from different places. One such food item comes from a small village in Mexico and is known as the Mexican Jungle Rat. Eating rodents is quite common in many areas, so the consumption of this rodent shouldn’t be surprising.
What is truly intriguing is that this rodent is prepared without removing its feces. Therefore, when you cut the meat, you will find the cooked feces inside as well. Although the taste may not be pleasant, it is considered a traditional dish in the village.
Nicaraguan Vegetable Tripe Soup
Tripe soup is made from the stomach lining of various animals. Although it might not sound appetizing, it’s actually quite the opposite. Tripe soup is a popular dish in Nicaragua. It is prepared using a variety of vegetables and fruits, like bananas, which adds to its unique taste.
Though the broth and overall flavor of the soup are quite enjoyable, when you encounter the stomach lining, it has a very distinctive taste. It tends to be chewy and a bit hard to eat on its own, but combined with the other flavors in the soup, it’s quite palatable.
Unique Escargots Snails from France
Snails are commonly consumed in many places, particularly in France. They are regarded as a delicacy in numerous areas, and it’s important to be familiar with the proper etiquette for eating escargot. You’ll need a snail fork and tongs to eat escargot, so it’s a good idea to practice beforehand.
Although snails themselves don’t have much flavor, they tend to take on the taste of the ingredients they are cooked with. Usually, they are prepared with garlic, butter, herbs, and similar ingredients. They are also quite popular.
The Tacacá Soup with Spicy Dried Shrimp from Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is renowned for a variety of food items available to travelers from all over the globe. For those seeking something spicy and delicious, this dish will certainly amaze you. Tacacá is a well-known soup in the area and ranks high on the spiciness scale.
After trying it, your mouth will feel numb. To fully experience the numbing sensation, you’ll need to chew on the leaves found in the soup. The soup includes dried shrimp, jambu plant leaves, and peppers. It is not suitable for those who can’t handle spicy soup.
Dried and salted flying lizards from Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known for offering a variety of unique and exotic foods to try. If you’re a food enthusiast who wants to explore different cuisines, then this is the place to visit. The area is renowned for offering travelers dried and salted flying lizards, among other things.
You’ll discover that the lizards are flattened, dried, and then attached to sticks for sale. These are perhaps one of the more common snacks you will find in Hong Kong. It is also said to be quite effective when combined with tea to treat respiratory problems.
Snake sausage with complete nutrition (Cambodia and Laos)
You have likely tried a variety of barbecue dishes regularly. However, you probably haven’t tried barbecued snakes! These are quite popular barbecue items in Cambodia and Laos. The snakes are covered in various sauces before being grilled.
You might find that these often taste like chicken, although opinions differ. They are a common street food in Cambodia, but they are certainly a unique and exotic item in other parts of the world. The crisp and nutritious meat of the snake is a great addition to your food palate, so don’t pass it up when visiting these places.
Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish
If you find yourself in Scotland, you must try their exquisite dish known as Haggis. Though the preparation process might initially seem off-putting because it involves cooking within a sheep’s stomach lining, the taste is remarkable, and you’ll likely enjoy it alongside the accompanying side dishes. The dish is made with minced sheep organs, mixed with seasonings, spices, and oats, all of which are encased in the stomach lining for hours. It’s typically served with turnips and potatoes.
Singapore Duck Tongues
You may have often heard about eating duck eggs, balut, and similar foods. But have you ever heard of eating duck tongues? Probably not. This is perhaps one of the most unique dishes you can try, and it is quite common in Singapore. The tongues are often fried similarly to bacon and are served in a variety of ways. You can fry the duck tongues or sauté them with different sauces to create various flavors. They have multiple fat pockets, making the duck tongues very flavorful when cooked.
Fried Chicken Feet (Popular in Asia, Africa, and South America)
Chicken feet are widely seen in Asian, South American, and African regions. They are considered a staple street food in China and other Asian countries. When cooked correctly, they are quite enjoyable. You can find them prepared in various ways.
Chicken feet can be fried, dried, made into soup, and more. Each method offers a unique variation with different flavors. They are also available in stores as dried snacks, making them easy to find in many places. Try them to broaden your palate.
Japan, Shirago
In Japanese, Shirako translates to “White Children.” It’s an unusual-looking dish made using the sperm sacs of pufferfish, cod, or anglerfish. When you examine the dish closely, it resembles tiny brains or a glob of goo. Shirako is noted for its sweet taste, similar to custard. While some people may not want to look at it twice, many around the world would do anything just to try this dish. An intriguing fact about Shirako is that it is believed to provide numerous health benefits. So, if you haven’t tried it yet, you should definitely add it to your list.
Boshingtan, South Korea
Boshingtan is a very nutritious soup served in Korea. It is made with spring onions, spices, and dandelions. The key ingredient in this soup is the meat, which is dog meat. Although many people might be reluctant to try a soup made with dog meat, it remains a favorite among many Koreans. While it is not as widely popular in Korea today as it once was, you can still find many Korean restaurants offering this unique and exotic soup.
Laotian White Ant Egg Soup
White ant egg soup is considered the most unusual soup globally and is made in Laos. The dish is created by mixing white ant eggs with their larvae. If this doesn’t astonish you, prepare for more surprises. To impart a sour flavor, some baby ants are also included in the soup. For those who can accept this unconventional recipe, the taste is reportedly delicious, resembling that of shrimp. As long as you have no allergies to the ingredients, it’s certainly worth trying at least once.
Canadian Jellied Moose Nose
This dish has a name strange enough to be featured on our list of the weirdest foods. The nose isn’t typically a popular choice for eating. However, this hasn’t deterred the adventurous people of Canada from creating a dish with it. The dish is initially boiled with onions and spices. The chef then removes the hair from the nose and boils it further. Once it is thoroughly boiled, it is sliced and covered with broth. There’s no chance we’ll ever try it. Would you?
Airag, located in Mongolia
There’s no doubt that Mongolia has many unusual and exotic dishes for its people. Among them, Airag stands out. Specifically, Airag is a cup of fermented horse milk. While many might find the idea of drinking horse milk strange and uncommon, Mongolians enjoy it greatly. The mare’s milk in the Airag is fermented into a mildly sour alcoholic drink. It is traditionally served cold at gatherings in a bowl-shaped cup.
Muktuk in Greenland
Muktuk is a traditional meat slice in Greenland made from frozen whale skin and blubber. It can be eaten raw or pickled, depending on your preference. Only the bravest individuals might consider trying the raw version of the frozen whale skin and blubber. This unusual dish somewhat resembles licorice. Moreover, it has multiple layers of skin. Interestingly, this peculiar snack is a great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin D.
Stargazey Pie, United Kingdom
The name of this dish doesn’t suggest anything strange, does it? It simply appears to be a pie shaped like a star. However, this isn’t completely accurate. In fact, there is a rich history associated with it. This dish is served annually on the 23rd.
rd
On Tom Bawcock’s Eve in December, tradition tells of a brave sailor who ventured into a fierce storm to provide for his starving community, returning with a large catch. As a tribute, people eat Stargazey Pie each year in his honor.
Hakarl, Icelandic fermented shark
How anyone ever came up with the idea of making Hákarl in Iceland is still a mystery to us all. Regardless of how it was invented, what’s important is that today it stands as Iceland’s national dish. It involves gutting and beheading a Greenland shark and then placing it in a shallow grave mostly covered with stones and pebbles. The shark is left in the grave for two or three months before being served. If you’re trying it for the first time, it’s advised to hold your nose, as there’s a good chance you might feel like gagging.
Salo, Ukraine
While many people like having some fat on their meat, Ukraine took it a step further by choosing to eat the whole chunk of fat. That’s correct! Salo is another unusual and exotic dish that is formed into slabs. You might be amazed to learn that it is smoked and then stored in a cellar for at least a year before being served. Most people typically eat it with very thinly sliced rye bread. Some even enjoy eating it raw.