The adventure of taste knows no bounds, and as we explore different parts of the world, we come across some unbelievable and bizarre foods. From insect dishes to fermented ingredients, these foods not only challenge your palate but also offer a glimpse into local culture and history. Let’s embark on this global taste adventure to discover the 10 strangest dishes in the world.
1. Fermented Shark Meat from Iceland
In Iceland, shark meat undergoes months of fermentation, resulting in a strong ammonia smell. Despite its lab-like odor, it is a traditional delicacy. Brave foodies need only endure the initial pungent aroma, and their taste buds will find a familiar seafood sensation.
2. Natto from Japan
Natto is fermented soybeans from Japan, known for their sticky texture and strong odor. Some describe it as “smelly bean feet,” but in Japan, it’s a breakfast favorite rich in probiotics, particularly favored by health enthusiasts. I’ve tried natto paste, and while it’s not visually appealing, the taste is quite acceptable. 
3. Century Eggs from China
Resembling dinosaur eggs, century eggs (also known as preserved eggs) are duck eggs pickled in an alkaline solution for weeks. Their whites turn a translucent blackish-brown, with a slippery texture and a strong sulfurous taste, yet they are a common snack in China. Even Bear Grylls, who eats almost anything, nearly vomited after trying century eggs in China and vowed never to eat them again.
4. Balut from the Philippines
In the Philippines, balut is a boiled duck embryo egg. Although it looks intimidating, especially with the visible shape of the duckling, it’s considered a high-protein delicacy, often enjoyed with beer, similar to our Chinese “maodan.”
5. Ant Eggs from Mexico
Mexico’s “ant caviar,” Escamoles, is considered a rare and precious delicacy. It has a mild flavor, somewhat reminiscent of buttered mushrooms. Although it sounds unusual, locals see it as a delicious symbol of their culinary tradition. In Bear Grylls’ words, it’s crunchy and has several times the protein of beef.
6. Fried Spiders from Cambodia
Skuon village in Cambodia is famous for its fried spiders, which are deep-fried until crispy. The outer shell is crunchy, and the inside is juicy. The legs have a crab-like texture, while the body has a strong earthy flavor. Nowadays, it’s a must-try street food for travelers, though it’s relatively mild compared to the various fried snacks from Yunnan.
7. Haggis from Scotland
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal, onions, and spices, all stuffed into a sheep’s stomach and cooked. While it sounds off-putting, it has an unexpectedly rich flavor.
8. Surströmming from Sweden
Surströmming is Sweden’s notorious fermented herring in a can. Upon opening, the smell is overwhelming, but those brave enough to try it find a salty, savory taste that pairs well with thin crispbread and potatoes.
9. Durian from Indonesia
Known as the “King of Fruits,” durian has a strong, divisive smell. Some say it smells like rotten onions or stinky socks, yet its flesh is creamy and has an intense flavor, loved by those who dare to taste it.
10. Guinea Pig from Peru
In Peru, guinea pig is a traditional festival food. While in many places they are pets, in the Andes, they are the star dish of celebratory feasts, with the roasted meat being tender and flavorful, similar to poultry.
These foods, though seemingly bizarre, carry with them the rich culture and history of their respective regions. Are you daring enough to try some of these and embark on a real culinary adventure?
