In this article, we will explore the most bizarre foods around the world you must try at least once. From Casu Marzu in Italy to Stargazy Pie in England and Jellied Moose Nose in Canada, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will surely be unforgettable (albeit a bit of stomach-churning).
But part of the joy of traveling is experiencing exotic foods and cuisines from cultures worldwide. From spicy Massaman curry in Thailand to mouth-watering Enchiladas and Mole in Mexico, the world has a cornucopia of delicious and unique dishes sure to tantalize your taste buds. However, while some dishes may be appetizing and tempting, others appear downright strange and more than a little gross.
These top 10 weirdest foods are not for the faint of heart. But for the brave and adventurous, they offer an opportunity to try something completely out of the ordinary.
- Locusts — Israel
Locusts are a popular snack in Israel and have been enjoyed for centuries. The insects are roasted or fried and are said to taste like popcorn. They’re also high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthier alternative to many traditional snacks. So if you’re feeling brave, be sure to try some of the best locusts in Israel at the Machne Yehuda Market in Jerusalem. Just imagine they’re crispy fried calamari from San Francisco.
- Century Egg, China
Also known as a preserved egg or a hundred-year-old egg, century eggs are indeed a bizarre Chinese food. Since it’s a popular delicacy, there’s a big chance of finding them in a Chinatown Market, like in NYC. The eggs are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several months. The process turns the yolk dark green and the white brown or black, and the egg develops a strong, pungent odor. While it may not be the most appetizing dish to look at, many people enjoy the creamy, rich flavor.
- Casu Marzu, Italy
This traditional Sardinian cheese is unique because it contains live maggots, undoubtedly making it one of the weirdest foods in the world. Casu Marzu is made by fermenting sheep’s milk with cheese fly larvae. The larvae break down the cheese, making it soft and creamy. You can feel the maggots squirming in your mouth when you eat it. Yuck! While the cheese has been banned in Italy for health reasons, it’s still possible to find it in some Sardinian markets.
- Fried Tarantulas, Cambodia
Tarantulas are a popular snack in Cambodia and are a bizarre food often sold in the street markets. The spiders are cleaned, seasoned with salt and sugar, and then fried until crispy. The legs are crunchy, and the body is soft and gooey, similar to crab meat. If you’re feeling brave, you can try them at Skuon Market, where they serve them with lime and pepper.
5. Stargazy Pie, England
This Cornish dish is made with fish heads protruding through the pastry crust as if they’re gazing up at the stars. The pie is typically filled with pilchards, eggs, and potatoes and is said to have originated to honor a local fisherman. While it may look like a bizarre food, the pie is a traditional English dish and can be found in many restaurants in Cornwall, England.
- Surstromming, Sweden
Surstromming is a traditional Swedish dish made from fermented herring. The herring is canned and then left to ferment for several months. When you open the can, the smell is extremely pungent, and many people find it difficult to stomach. However, for those who can get past the smell, the taste is said to be rich and salty, with a creamy texture.
- Penis Fish, South Korea
Known as “gaebul” in Korean, these phallic-shaped creatures are actually marine worms. They’re usually eaten raw and have a slimy, chewy texture. That’s absolutely one bizarre Asian food out there! But while they may not look very appetizing, many people enjoy their sweet, briny flavor. You can find gaebul in most seafood restaurants in South Korea.
- Snake Soup, China
This Cantonese dish is made with snake meat, which is said to have medicinal properties. The meat is boiled with herbs and spices and is often served with a side of rice. The broth is rich and savory, and the meat is tender and flavorful. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Hong Kong’s Snake King restaurant, where you can sample some of the best snake soup in China.
- Fruit Bat Soup, Palau
Fruit Bat Soup is a delicacy in the Pacific island nation of Palau. The soup is made with a boiled fruit bat; some essential ingredients include ginger, taro, and coconut milk. The soup has a slightly sweet taste, and the meat is said to be similar to chicken. The dish is traditionally served on special occasions like weddings or funerals. While you may find it the weirdest food ever, it is believed to have medicinal properties.
- Jellied Moose Nose, Canada
Jellied Moose Nose is a unique dish that originated in Canada, specifically in the province of Manitoba. The dish is made by boiling a moose nose until the meat falls off the bone. The meat is then mixed with onions and spices, and the resulting broth is strained to remove any bones or cartilage. The broth is then mixed with gelatin and refrigerated until it becomes a jelly-like substance. The dish is typically served cold with crackers and mustard.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the “Top 10 Weirdest and Most Bizarre Foods Around the World” Have you tried any of these dishes before? Which one would you be most willing to try? Share this post and let us know!
