Sometimes, the most unusual-looking foods can surprise us with their incredible flavors. Around the globe, various cultures have embraced ingredients and cooking methods that might seem bizarre at first glance, but are culinary delights. Here, we embark on a culinary journey to discover such foods that are as tasty as they are peculiar in appearance.
Often called the 'king of fruits,' durian is notorious for its strong odor, which some find off-putting. However, its creamy, custard-like flesh is beloved in many Southeast Asian countries for its rich, almond-like taste.
This traditional Icelandic dish is made from fermented Greenland shark. The shark is cured with a particular fermentation process and hung to dry for several months. It's known for its strong ammonia-rich scent and acquired taste.
These eggs aren't actually a century old, but they do undergo a unique preservation process that turns the yolk dark green and the white into a translucent brown jelly. The flavor is complex, with hints of ammonia and sulfur.
A traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, natto is known for its powerful smell, strong flavor, and slimy texture. It's a breakfast staple in Japan and is rich in protein and probiotics.
This popular Taiwanese street food gets its name from the pungent aroma it emits, which is a result of fermentation. It's typically served deep-fried and is known for its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior.
Often referred to as 'insect caviar,' escamoles are edible ant larvae harvested from agave plants. They have a buttery and slightly nutty taste and are considered a delicacy in Mexican cuisine.
This Swedish dish consists of fermented Baltic Sea herring. Known for its overwhelming odor, surströmming is usually eaten with bread, potatoes, and sour cream to balance its strong flavor.