The Strangest Foods I've Tried While Traveling

Traveling opens the door to not only breathtaking sights but also unique culinary experiences. From bizarre street food to exotic delicacies, here are some of the strangest foods I've dared to try during my adventures around the globe.

1. Fried Tarantula – Cambodia

Eating Deep Fried Tarantula in Cambodia | Gordon Ramsay

• Crunchy, hairy, and surprisingly tasty! I bit into a fried tarantula, and the flavor was reminiscent of a cross between chicken and crab. It was a bold move, but a must-try for the adventurous foodie!

2. Hákarl – Iceland

How Icelandic Fermented Shark Is Made | Regional Eats | Food Insider

• Fermented shark, anyone? Hákarl has a pungent smell that can knock you off your feet, but once you get past the aroma, the unique taste is an unforgettable part of Icelandic culture.

3. Cuy – Peru

Trying Guinea Pig (CUY) with a Local Peruvian in Peru 🇵🇪

• In Peru, I tried cuy (guinea pig), a traditional dish served whole. The crispy skin and tender meat were surprisingly delicious, and it’s a staple in Peruvian cuisine.

4. Century Egg – China

Eating China’s 1,000-Year-Old Egg

• Also known as hundred-year eggs, these preserved duck eggs have a unique appearance and a strong flavor. The dark, gelatinous yolk was an acquired taste, but definitely worth the experience!

5. Escamoles – Mexico

Why Ant Egg Caviar Is So Expensive | So Expensive Food

• Often called "insect caviar," escamoles are ant larvae that are sautéed with butter and spices. Their nutty flavor and creamy texture made for a surprising but delightful taco filling.

6. Balut – Philippines

Approximately Balut - Philippines [Best Ever Food Review Show]

• A fertilized duck egg, balut is a street food staple that many travelers brave. The mix of textures, from the crunchy beak to the soft yolk, was unlike anything I’d ever experienced!

7. Sannakji – South Korea

Would You Eat Live Octopus? | National Geographic

• Live octopus served in bite-sized pieces, sannakji is a dish that wriggles on your plate! The freshness is unmatched, and the experience of eating it is one I’ll never forget.

Final Thoughts

• From creepy crawlies to unique delicacies, trying strange foods while traveling has become one of my favorite parts of exploring new cultures. It may sound daunting, but these culinary adventures often lead to some of the best stories—and memories. So, next time you’re on the road, be brave and take a bite out of the unusual!