From sweet and savory to unusual ingredients, the world has no shortage of bizarre food combinations that can make you squirm. Consider this roundup of strange food combinations from around the world your guide to a culinary adventure or a forewarning of bizarre meals you may encounter on your travels.
Spaghetti and Peanut Butter
This concoction is popular in Southern United States, particularly among children. The salty-sweet combination of pasta and peanut butter may seem weird, but the creamy peanut butter complements the pasta surprisingly well.
French Fries and Cheese Sauce
Home to Canada, this unique dish is also well-known in Scotland. The salty French fries are served with cheese curds and smothered in gravy for a portion of exotic comfort food. If you are ever in Canada, you should indulge in some hot fries and melted cheese sauce, or not.
Chocolate-covered Bacon
This classic American oddity combines salty and sweet flavors that will please bacon and chocolate lovers. The bacon is typically thick-cut and covered in milk or dark chocolate. This American invention is a popular treat at fairs and can be found in some upscale restaurants.
Churros con Chocolate
This delicious combination of crunchy and creamy textures consists of deep-fried doughnut-like churros dipped in thick, hot chocolate. It’s popular worldwide, though Spaniards think of it as theirs. You can find this mix in Spain as a morning treat or late-night snack.
Fried Plantains and Salt Cod
This traditional dish from the Caribbean is a favorite in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. The fusion of salty cod and sweet fried plantains is a perfect example of the intersection of sweet and savory. You can find this popular dish served with a side of white rice.
Pineapple and Cheddar Cheese
In some places, it’s common to see a dish made of sweet pineapple slices and tangy cheddar cheese. This unusual yet surprisingly tasty fusion is often served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Kimchi Fried Rice
A great way to use any leftover kimchi, this Korean dish is made with spicy, pungent kimchi and fried rice. The union of flavors makes for a savory dish with an added kick from the kimchi. You can find this popular dish in any Korean restaurant or make it at home.
Lemon and Salt
This Mexican snack is made by rubbing a cut lemon with salt and then eating the slices. The mixture of tart and salty creates a unique flavor that is surprisingly pleasant.
Pickled Watermelon Rind
The pickling removes most of the water content, giving it a crunchy texture and intense flavor. To prepare this dish, cut off the green rind, chop it into small cubes, season it with salt and dill or other spices, and let it sit in a mixture of sugar and vinegar for at least an hour.
Mango and Chili
This sugary and spicy treat is a favorite of Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Sweet mangoes are combined with spicy chilies to create a unique flavor. The mango’s tanginess balances the chili’s heat and makes for a refreshing snack.
Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
This American sandwich is an unlikely yet delectable treat and the brainchild of singer Elvis Presley, known for making this swalty combo for breakfast or late-night snacks. It is made by spreading peanut butter between two slices of bread and then adding banana slices. The sandwich is then fried, giving it a warm, golden crust.
Ketchup and Potato Chips
This classic American snack is designed to give you the ultimate feel of crunch and flavor in one bite. The ketchup adds a tangy element to the salty, crispy potato chips, making it an interesting salty-sweet combo. While some might think it’s strange, many Americans swear by this unique pairing which can be considered a form of fast food as it’s easy to make and incredibly tasty.
Cheese and Jam Sandwiches
The Finns are known for their love of cheese, so it’s no surprise that a cheesy jam sandwich is one of their most popular food pairs. A tangy jam is spread on a piece of bread, topped with a thick slice of cheese, and then heated until melted. It’s not recommended to try this one cold!
Taco Pizza
Taco pizza is an example of fusion food that combines two classic dishes. It’s a pizza topped with taco-seasoned beef, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and onions. The end product is unexpectedly tasty and ideal for evenings when you struggle between having tacos or pizza.
Patbingsu
This Asian delicacy is made of toothsome and tasty elements that create a dessert unlike any other. Patbingsu is a Korean shaved ice dish that combines red bean paste, pieces of fruit such as kiwi or mango, and a topping of crushed nuts. The sweetness from the red bean paste and the crunchiness from the nuts make for a unique and delicious treat.
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This article was produced on Health Makes You.