5 Must-Try Exotic Dishes from Around the World

Balut is a traditional Filipino delicacy that might challenge Western palates but is deeply rooted in the culture of the Philippines. It consists of a fertilized duck egg, incubated for about 18 days, so the embryo is partially developed. The egg is boiled and typically eaten with a pinch of salt and sometimes vinegar or chili. The experience of eating balut is unique; it combines the flavors and textures of the broth, yolk, and the tender, albeit unusual, texture of the embryo. Balut is often enjoyed as street food and is believed to be an aphrodisiac and a rich source of protein. For the adventurous eater, trying balut is an opportunity to engage with a significant aspect of Filipino culinary tradition.

Fugu, or pufferfish, is one of Japan’s most notorious delicacies, known for its unique taste and the thrill associated with its preparation. The fish contains tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin, making it essential that only licensed and highly trained chefs handle and prepare it. Served as sashimi, fugu is thinly sliced and presented with exquisite care, often arranged to resemble a chrysanthemum flower. The texture is firm, with a subtle flavor that is often accompanied by a dipping sauce made from ponzu (a citrus-based sauce) to enhance its taste. The experience of eating fugu is not just about the flavor but also the artistry and skill involved in its preparation, making it a sought-after dish for food connoisseurs willing to embrace the culinary adventure.

Hákarl is a traditional Icelandic dish made from fermented Greenland shark. Known for its pungent aroma and strong taste, hákarl is an acquired taste even for locals. The preparation process involves curing the shark meat with a particular fermentation method that detoxifies it, as Greenland shark flesh is poisonous when fresh. The meat is buried in gravelly sand and pressed with stones for 6–12 weeks, then hung to dry for several months. When ready, it is typically cut into small cubes and served on toothpicks. Hákarl’s taste is often described as a combination of strong cheese and fish, with an ammonia-rich aroma. Despite its challenging flavor profile, it is considered a rite of passage in Icelandic culture and offers a unique taste of the country’s Viking heritage.

Known as “insect caviar,” escamoles are the edible larvae of ants, considered a delicacy in Mexican cuisine. Harvested from the roots of agave or maguey plants, escamoles have been consumed since the time of the Aztecs. They are typically sautéed with butter, garlic, and spices, and can be served in tacos, omelets, or as a standalone dish. The texture of escamoles is often described as nutty and creamy, with a taste that is delicate and slightly buttery. This exotic dish offers a unique culinary experience that blends ancient traditions with modern flavors, making it a must-try for those eager to explore the rich and diverse world of Mexican cuisine.

Thailand offers a variety of exotic foods that might seem bizarre to outsiders but are integral to Thai cuisine and culture. Dishes such as fried insects (grasshoppers, crickets, and silkworm larvae), goong ten (dancing shrimp), and larb leuat neua (raw beef salad with blood) are just a few examples. Fried insects are crispy and seasoned with soy sauce and pepper, providing a crunchy snack rich in protein. Goong ten consists of live shrimp mixed with spices, lime juice, and herbs, offering a unique texture and fresh taste. Larb leuat neua is a bold dish made with raw beef and a dressing of fresh blood and spices, reflecting the daring side of Thai cuisine. These dishes highlight the diversity and adventurous spirit of Thai food, inviting food lovers to step out of their comfort zone and experience the extraordinary flavors Thailand has to offer.