China, known for its diverse and rich culinary culture, is home to some dishes that may be viewed as unusual or even disgusting to outsiders. These foods, intertwined with historical traditions and regional peculiarities, are an essential part of Chinese cuisine, despite their potentially off-putting nature to foreign palates.
Here are 15 dishes that foreigners may find disgusting but are a testament to the boundless culinary creativity found within China.
Century Eggs
Preserved duck, chicken, or quail eggs undergo a unique fermentation process, turning the whites translucent and the yolk into a creamy consistency. Despite their intense aroma and unusual appearance, they are considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine.
Stinky Tofu
True to its name, fermented tofu is renowned for its strong and distinctive odor. Though the smell may be off-putting to some, many locals and adventurous eaters find it a delightful mix of savory and spicy. It is typically deep-fried and served as a street food snack.
Chicken Feet
Chicken feet are known for their seasoned, deep-fried goodness and chewy texture. They are beloved in Chinese dim sum and popular as street food. Although some may hesitate to nibble on them, chicken feet offer a unique culinary experience.
Snake Soup
A delicacy in Cantonese cuisine, snake soup is believed to have medicinal benefits, like improving blood circulation and boosting vitality. While consuming a snake may be unsettling, its unique flavor and texture attract many curious eaters.
Bird’s Nest Soup
Bird’s nest soup, made from the saliva of cave-dwelling swiftlets, is a luxurious and highly sought-after dish in Chinese cuisine due to its supposed health benefits. The nests are believed to improve digestion and enhance the skin’s appearance.
Pig’s Blood Cake
A popular street food made from congealed pig’s blood and glutinous rice, pig’s blood cake may not sound appealing, but many locals and tourists find the savory flavor and chewy texture worth trying. It is often served on skewers and dipped in soy sauce.
Duck Tongue
Long cherished in China for its exquisite flavors and textures, duck tongue can be a snack or appetizer. Its succulent and fatty nature adds richness to every bite, making it a delight for people seeking a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
Beondegi (Silkworm Pupae)
A popular street food in China, bondage (boiled silkworm pupae), is high in protein and low in fat, making it a nutritious snack. Though eating insects may be repulsive to some, they are considered a delicacy and have been consumed for centuries.
Fried Scorpions
A typical street food in China, fried scorpions are prepared by deep-frying live or dried scorpions and seasoning them with spices. They are crunchy and may taste like fried shrimp or chicken. While eating a scorpion may be unsettling, it is an adventurous dish for many.
Sea Cucumber
Renowned for its medicinal properties, sea cucumber is a prized ingredient in Chinese cuisine. It is often served at banquets and special occasions as a symbol of wealth and luxury. While it may not be visually appealing, it is considered a delicacy due to its unique texture and flavor.
Durian
Known as the “King of Fruits” in Southeast Asia, durian is also a popular and polarizing fruit in China. Some adore its creamy texture and sweet flavor, while others find its strong smell and spiky exterior repulsive. Nevertheless, trying durian is a unique culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed in China.
Sea Urchin
Also known as “fish’s inner flower,” sea urchin is a Chinese cuisine delicacy. While its spiky exterior may be intimidating, the rich and creamy flesh inside is highly prized for its salty flavor. It is often served raw or used in sushi dishes.
Pig’s Brain
Also known as “brain flower,” pig’s brain is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often served in hot pot dishes. It is said to have a soft and creamy texture, making it a delicacy for those who enjoy offal. However, for some, eating an animal’s brain may be unappetizing.
Fried Bee Pupae
Fried bee pupae, a popular snack in China, are often sold on the streets. The pupae are deep-fried and seasoned with spices, creating a crunchy and flavorful snack. While some struggle to get past the idea of eating insects, others enjoy the unique taste and texture.
Turtle Jelly
Also known as “guilinggao,” turtle jelly is a popular dessert made in China from turtles’ powdered shells and plastrons. While it may be off-putting to some, it is believed to have medicinal benefits, such as improving skin health and digestion. Its texture resembles gelatin, giving it a unique culinary appeal.
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This article was produced on Health Makes You.