Most Unusual Foods Around the World

Travelling around the world is something that a lot of people enjoy. Some do it to unwind and sunbathe on tropical beaches, some love to simply meet and experience different cultures, or because they are thrill-seekers. But it’s also worth mentioning that one of the great joys of travelling lies in trying out different cuisines. So if you fancy yourself a gourmet traveller stick around, we will be going over some of the most unusual meals around the world.   

Pig’s Blood Cake

This is a popular street food sold in Taiwan, and according to some experts, it can help our lungs heal smog damage. It’s sold like ice cream on a stick and it’s made from rice and of course pig blood.

It looks delicious, like a cake on a stick, so it was probably more helpful not to tell you what exactly it is. 

Pigeon

Many regard pigeons as rats with wings, as this is a really dirty street animal. But in France, it is an expensive dish, served at most exquisite restaurants and supposedly delicious. This really makes you wonder, how come everyone is not preparing this dish since there is no shortage of filthy pigeons in Europe. 

Grasshopper

Grasshoppers are pretty much standard food in Uganda, and they are even eaten raw. They are caught during the rainy season, and you can buy ones with and without wings, and cook them. It’s really hard to imagine eating a raw grasshopper and finding it delicious unless you are Bear Grylls or a big fan of the Lion King. Hakuna Matata, right? 

Donkey

Donkey meat is pretty standard in Italy, and you can order it in any bar. It’s sliced and served similar to prosciutto, and it does have a unique taste. You probably wouldn’t guess that it’s donkey meat when you try it. 

Anagoria, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Live Octopus

Unlike calamari or squid that is a common, delicious and most importantly dead, live octopus is served while it’s still alive and wiggling. It’s also not one of those meals that you can savour and enjoy by taking your time, as chefs in South Korea suggest that you need to eat it quickly. This is by far the most unusual thing, not because octopi are tasty but because you have to kill it yourself while eating it. The whole idea behind restaurants and supermarkets is that people don’t have to kill the animals themselves. 

Ostrich 

Ostrich meat is becoming increasingly popular, as it has lower cholesterol and is healthier compared to other meat. You can use it to make burgers, or use the eggs for an omelette. It’s very common in South Africa and you’ll see it pop up on menus frequently.