By now, it is my everyday routine to feed my curiosity. So, again, just like a little child, I was wondering what I should read or learn about the world since my last article was a bit heavy. I stumbled upon food! Food is a fascinating part of every culture. It tells stories and traditions that go back generations. But some foods are so strange, they leave us scratching our heads. Here are ten strange foods from around the world that you won’t believe exist. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

1. Balut – The Philippines

Balut is a popular street food in the Philippines. It’s a fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo inside. Yes, you read that right!

Balut is boiled and eaten straight from the shell. Some people sprinkle salt or vinegar on it. The sight of the tiny duckling can be off-putting, but locals say it’s delicious and nutritious. It’s high in protein and often enjoyed with a cold beer.

2. Casu Marzu – Italy

Casu Marzu is a cheese from Sardinia, Italy. What makes it strange? It’s infested with live insect larvae.

This cheese starts as a traditional Pecorino. Then, cheese flies lay their eggs in it. The larvae hatch and begin to eat through the cheese. This process gives Casu Marzu its soft texture and unique flavor. It’s illegal in many places due to health concerns. But it’s a delicacy in Sardinia.

3. Hákarl – Iceland

Hákarl is a traditional Icelandic dish. It’s made from Greenland shark that’s been fermented and dried.

Fresh Greenland shark is toxic due to high levels of urea and trimethylamine oxide. To make it safe, it’s buried in gravel and sand for several months. Then it’s hung to dry for a few more months. The result is a pungent, ammonia-smelling meat that’s an acquired taste. Locals often eat it with a shot of strong alcohol called Brennivín.

4. Surströmming – Sweden

Surströmming is a type of fermented Baltic herring from Sweden. It’s known for its powerful smell.

The fish is fermented in barrels for several months. Then, it’s canned where it continues to ferment. When opened, the smell is so strong it can make people gag. It’s usually eaten with flatbread and potatoes to balance the strong flavor. Surströmming parties are a tradition in Sweden, where brave souls gather to enjoy this unique dish.

5. Shiokara – Japan

Shiokara is a Japanese delicacy made from marine animals’ guts. It’s a type of fermented food with a very salty taste.

Squid is the most common base for shiokara. The guts are mixed with salt and malted rice, then left to ferment. It’s eaten in small amounts due to its strong flavor. Many people enjoy it with a shot of whiskey or sake. It’s an acquired taste, even for some Japanese people.

6. Sannakji – South Korea

Sannakji is a dish that might make you squirm. It’s live octopus served while the tentacles are still wriggling.

The octopus is cut into small pieces and served immediately. The tentacles continue to move due to nerve activity. It’s a popular dish in South Korea, especially in seafood markets. Diners dip the pieces in sesame oil before eating. Caution is advised, as the suction cups can stick to the throat.

7. Escamoles – Mexico

Escamoles are the edible larvae of ants. They’re considered a delicacy in Mexico.

These larvae are harvested from the roots of agave plants. They have a texture similar to cottage cheese and a buttery, nutty flavor. Escamoles are often fried with butter and spices. They’re served in tacos or omelets. They’re sometimes called “insect caviar” due to their delicate taste.

8. Stargazy Pie – England

Stargazy pie is a traditional English dish. It’s a fish pie with whole fish poking their heads out through the crust.

This unusual pie hails from the village of Mousehole in Cornwall. It’s made with pilchards, eggs, and potatoes. The fish heads sticking out are meant to look like they’re gazing at the stars. The dish is baked with a pastry crust and is served at the annual Tom Bawcock’s Eve festival.

9. Bird’s Nest Soup – China

Bird’s nest soup is a Chinese delicacy made from the nests of swiftlets. These birds make their nests from solidified saliva.

The nests are harvested and then dissolved in water to create a gelatinous texture. The soup is prized for its supposed health benefits, including improved digestion and enhanced skin complexion. It’s a luxury item and can be quite expensive. The taste is mild, and the texture is often compared to soft noodles.

10. Durian – Singapore

Durian is known as the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia. It’s famous for its strong odor, which many find unpleasant.

In Singapore, durian is a beloved treat despite its smell. The fruit has a creamy, custard-like texture and a unique flavor. Some describe it as a mix of sweet and savory, while others can’t get past the smell. It’s banned in many public places due to its pungent odor. But locals and tourists alike seek it out for its distinctive taste.

Exploring different foods can be an exciting way to learn about different cultures. It is unfair to call them weird or bizarre since they have been consumed for a long time. My naive curiosity would not give its verdict until I taste them myself. While some of these dishes may seem bizarre to others, they’re cherished traditions for many people around the world. I would address all these foods with respect.