Foods have the power to bring people together, but not all, as others spark heated debates about whether to serve them or not. Whether it’s their taste, texture, aroma, or simply the idea of eating them, certain ingredients have the power to divide opinions. If you’ve ever hesitated at the sight of liver or squirmed at the idea of a live octopus, you’re not alone. Here’s a closer look at 12 foods you may never love, no matter how hard you try.
12. Tofu
Tofu is made out of soy milk curds, which is why the food is considered a plant-based protein that is praised for its health benefits and ability to absorb flavors easily. However, it’s an acquired taste since they’re bland and it has a spongy texture that makes it feel like eating a sponge.
11. Cilantro
Did you ever take out those leafy greens on top of your pizza or pasta? You’d be surprised that a lot of people are doing the same! Those leafy greens are actually called cilantro, and they’re a staple in the culinary world as they add fresh and citrusy flavor to dishes. Still, they’re hard to love for some since many say that they taste like soap, so it ruins the dish for them.
10. Okra
Featured in many Southern and Asian cuisines, the Okra is loved for many ways that you can cook it. However, its slimy texture may stop those who want to give it a try. Okra features a natural mucus-like liquid that turns slimy when cooked, especially in soups and stews. Cooking methods like frying or grilling can reduce the slime, but for many, okra remains a challenging vegetable to love.
9. Natto
Hate the slimy brown beans that you see? It’s called Natto, a traditional Japanese breakfast made out of fermented soybeans. While it doesn’t seem as bad as it seems, the sticky texture and strong earth-like aroma prevent people from trying them. On the bright side, it’s packed with protein and probiotics that help with gut health and cardiovascular support.
8. Durian
Durian is known for its smelly scent, with some saying that it smells rotten. This is an instant red flag for many. Its thick and spiky shell reveals a custard-like inside with a flavor that’s described as sweet and creamy, which people love. However, the creamy custard, along with its smelly scent, is what made some dislike the fruit.
7. Oysters
Oysters are a known luxurious delicacy among the seafood family. While they’re loved by some, it’s an acquired taste for many. They’re served raw, steamed, grilled, or baked. It’s a pretty versatile dish that has a slippery texture and is often paired with lemon, hot sauce, or mignonette.
6. Sannakji
Want to eat a food that’s challenging to love? Wait until you read about Sannakji or Live Octopus. It’s a Korean delicacy where freshly cut octopus tentacles are served while still wriggling. Diners love the chewy texture and fresh flavor, but eating it requires care since the suction cups on the tentacles remain active and can stick to the mouth or throat.
5. Liver
Admit it; just the sound of the food Liver is not that appealing. But on the bright side, the liver is packed with nutrients like iron and vitamin A, making it hailed as a superfood. But the thing that makes people hate it, aside from the idea of eating liver, is its strong metallic taste plus its rough texture on the tongue.
4. Haggis
Scotland’s iconic Haggis is as unique as it sounds. Are you ready? It’s made out of a mixture of a sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs. For flavoring, this exotic dish is combined with oatmeal, spices, and onions. While some may love them for the explosion of flavor and unique texture, some may raise eyebrows knowing that it’s made out of cute white sheep’s organs.
3. Sea Urchin
Believe it or not, those spiky Sea Urchins that you see on the beach are edible. The exotic delicacy is loved for its creamy texture and rich flavor, which have a hint of sweetness. The food is enjoyed with raw sushi and luxurious pasta dishes. However, the intense oceanic taste and custard-like consistency can be overwhelming for many.
2. Century Egg
China’s Century Egg delicacy is also known as the preserved egg or thousand-year egg. It’s made from duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, and salt. Want to know the ick part for many? Since they are preserved eggs, they were kept from weeks to months. The result is a dark and jelly-like egg white with a creamy and kind of greenish yolk.
1. Casu Marzu
You may have seen the Casu Marzu, or “rotten cheese,” on the list of the most exotic food in the world, and we definitely know why. Hailing from Sardinia, Italy, the Casu Marzu is actually a fermented Pecorino cheese with live fly larvae. The larvae help digest the fats, which creates a soft and creamy-like texture. The presence of wriggling larvae makes it a challenge to even try the cheese.