Unconventional Delights: 7 of the Weirdest Foods in the World

Food is an essential part of any culture, and every country has its own unique dishes that have been passed down through generations. However, some cuisines may be considered strange or unconventional to those unfamiliar with them. Get ready to expand your culinary horizons as we take a dive into the world of the weirdest foods in the world.

1. BALUT (PHILIPPINES)

Balut is a popular street food in the Philippines that might turn off those with a weak stomach. Balut is a fertilized duck egg that’s boiled and eaten with the embryo inside.

It’s commonly sold by street vendors who peddle the eggs out of buckets. Although it may sound like a bizarre dish, many Filipinos consider balut to be a delicacy.

2. HAGGIS (SCOTLAND) 

Haggis is a savory pudding that’s considered to be the national dish of Scotland. It’s made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, which are minced and mixed with oatmeal, suet, and spices. The mixture is then stuffed into a sheep’s stomach and boiled.

Haggis has a distinctive flavor that’s rich and earthy, and it’s often served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

3. ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTERS (USA) 

Despite its name, Rocky Mountain oysters are not seafood. In fact, they’re bull testicles that are sliced and fried. This dish is a delicacy in some parts of the American West and is often served at festivals and fairs.

Although it may sound unappetizing, Rocky Mountain oysters are said to taste similar to chicken or pork.

4. ESCAMOLES (MEXICO)

Escamoles are a type of ant larvae that are considered a delicacy in Mexico. They’re often called “insect caviar” because of their appearance and high price tag.

Despite its cringe-worthy ingredients, it’s actually one of the weird foods that taste good, enjoyed mostly by the rich of Mexico. Escamoles are typically served in tacos or omelets and have a nutty flavor.

However, it’s worth noting that harvesting escamoles can be dangerous, as the ants are known to bite and sting.

5. CENTURY EGG (CHINA)

Century eggs are a Chinese delicacy that’s made by preserving duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks or months.

The result is a black, jelly-like egg with a pungent aroma. Despite its unappetizing appearance, century eggs are considered a delicacy in China and are often deliciously served with congee (rice porridge).

6. SURSTRÖMMING (SWEDEN)

Surströmming is a fermented herring that’s been a part of Swedish cuisine for centuries. The fish is traditionally caught in the Baltic Sea and then fermented in barrels for several months.

Surströmming has a strong, pungent smell that’s been compared to rotten eggs, and it’s often eaten with potatoes and onions. The dish is so infamous that it’s banned from being carried on planes due to its potential to explode from fermentation gases.

7. CASU MARZU (ITALY)

Casu Marzu is a type of cheese from Sardinia that’s known for its unique preparation method. The cheese is left to ferment and is then exposed to cheese flies, which lay eggs inside the cheese. The larvae that hatch from the eggs break down the cheese’s fats, resulting in a soft, creamy texture. However, the cheese is also known to contain live maggots, which can jump out of it when disturbed. Despite being illegal to sell in many countries, Casu Marzu is still considered a delicacy in Sardinia.

Weirded out yet?

This list of the weirdest foods in the world is just a small glimpse into the diverse culinary culture of our planet. Each country has its own unique delicacies that may seem strange to outsiders but are treasured by locals.

Whether it’s balut in the Philippines or haggis in Scotland, these foods reflect the traditions and values of the cultures they belong to.

Got other examples you know of? Share them in the comments section, and let’s continue exploring the unique palates of different cultures!