Go on, admit it – you’re probably wondering what on earth could constitute as strange street foods – after all, in first world countries the norm is generally hot dogs, croquet monsieur’s, and perhaps even the odd samosa stand.
But in third world nations and developing countries, the cuisine you’ll find served at fast-food stands will quite likely be far outside of your comfort zone.
Egg-cellent Poultry
Though we know that unfertilized eggs from chickens and most domesticated birds are great for breakfasts, and that the bird themselves are good roasted, stewed, and even baked, we tend not to go beyond using the obvious parts.
- Chicken Feet – South Africa
Not only a delicacy in China, chicken feet are known locally as “walkie talkies” and are a common snack served in South Africa, and are often enjoyed by those who go on a township tour. This meal is low in kilojoules while being high in protein and it also contains plenty of collagen and calcium.
The feet, which consist of skin and tendons, are washed before being placed in boiling water along with fragrant spices such as turmeric, curry powder, salt, and pepper for flavour. They can then be served as is, or fried, added into stew, or braaied (put over a flame).
- Balut / Balot- Philippines
A cultural staple of Filipinos is called Balut, which basically translates to the English word “wrapped”. That doesn’t sound so bad until you find out that this food staple is an 18-day old developing duck embryo that is boiled alive.
Balut is most often served de-shelled after being soaked in a mixture of chili, garlic, vinegar, and salt to soften the egg. You will also find many vendors selling the egg after it has been covered in batter and then deep fried. This is very similar to the Chinese maodan which translates to “feathered egg”.
- Pindan / Century Egg – China
This unusual preserved egg’s aging transformation is revealed when it’s opened, and you can view the dark green yolk and a solidified amber-brown of the egg white, accompanied by a pungent ammonia smell due to the break-down of proteins.
This dish was created out of necessity – and was used as a way to store eggs before the convenience of refrigerators. It’s made by wrapping an egg in clay, ash, salt, and rice hulls for two weeks up to a month. It is often served in congee, though many people enjoy it just as-is, with the addition of salt.
Appetizing Arachnids
No one is entirely certain who first looked at spiders and thought “Gee that would make a fantastic snack!”, but it happened at some point, and a variety of arachnid canapés have appeared in numerous countries.
- Tarantula – Cambodia
Not one for the faint-hearted, tarantulas are a popular snack served in Cambodia – and Venezuela – on a skewer.
The spiders are fried, along with sugar, garlic, oil, and salt for taste, and their abdomens are said to be quite gooey, while the legs are crunchy like potato chips. Their flavour, for those wondering, is said to be reminiscent of nutty crab meat.
- Scorpion – China
Strange as it may sound, scorpions are classified as arachnids, and are commonly consumed in China. Their poisonous sting may worry some, but this poison is broken down into harmless proteins when stir-fried. They are commonly served on skewers, and are believed to help heat the blood.
Those eaten live as part of a meal are usually dunked in a rice wine mixture until they become near-comatose, after which their sting and poison sack is cut off by the chef. They are then served as is, and are said to taste like shrimp.
Strange Seafood
Forget about eating fish cooked or raw, and perhaps the odd calamari head, as there are far stranger seafood options available.
- Starfish and Seahorse – China
Popular as snacks in China, these harmless star-shaped marine dwellers are most commonly seen suctioned to the side of rocks, minding their own business. That is until someone, somewhere along the line, decided they’d be delicious broiled, spiced, and then deep-fried.
You’ll find them at most street vendors pre-made, though live ones are sometimes kept off to the side for those who are after only the freshest of tastes. Another popular fried skewered snack found in Chinese Night Markets is the gentle seahorse, often referred to as baby dragons. Those who’ve tried them say they taste like pork rinds.
Interesting Insects
Over 80% of the nations in the world eat insects in some form as they’re a very sustainable protein source, and in light of this, the UN is trying to implement insect eating world-over. Just ensure the bug you’re about to devour is pesticide-free.
- Grasshoppers – Mexico
Fried grasshoppers are likely the least scary item on this list and are one insect that most Westerners would actually try – they’re even referenced in the Bible as being edible! However, they must be properly cooked to kill any parasites they may carry.
They’re usually served in Mexico, and are washed, fried until crispy, and are usually flavoured with spices like garlic, lime, and salt.
- Witchetty Grub – Australia
Said to be good for children and women, this white larvae of the ghost moth is a tasty snack that was predominantly eaten by the Aborigines. It is usually found below ground near tree roots (but can also be found within the trunks of gum trees).
When consumed raw, this grub has a surprising almond flavour, and when cooked for a few minutes over wood or coals, they are said to taste just like chicken! If that’s too much trouble, then keep an eye out for the tinned Witchetty soup, sold in numerous supermarkets around Australia.
What strange foods have you enjoyed before?
Main image courtesy of Molly Mazilu (Flickr).
