Finding bizarre food combinations is increasingly more common. In fact, some say the fancier you get, the weirder the menu items are.
But we’re going for basics here. We’ve got one food that might make many people cringe and others that we doubt anyone actually eats.
Today, we’re exploring some of the most bizarre foods.
Let’s dig into the menu!
#1 Chitlins, the Bizarre Southern Food Staple
Chitlins have been a part of Southern cooking since the late 1700s. They come from the practice of eating every bit of an animal you kill as possible. Waste not, want not.
Most might think eating pig intestines is beyond bizarre. But that’s what chitlins are. It’s slightly unnerving! However, Chitlins can be a delicious side dish when prepared just right. Not only that, but this bizarre food is packed with protein, iron, and Vitamin B12.
Chitlins are cooked with great care. Most folks clean them twice before chopping them up and tossing them into boiling water for an hour. After that, they’re seasoned and spiced. Some even add onion and garlic before deep frying in oil.
Let’s be honest. Chitlins are an acquired taste. Their distinct odor is attractive to some and repulsive to others. It might be best to try them from a recommended restaurant or from someone you know who is a highly trained cook.
We uncovered Where You Can Get Chitlins so you can get your Southern bizarre food fix.
#2 The Bizarre Food From the Bayou
To some, eating alligator meat is a delicacy. Locals in Australia and Thailand don’t think it’s a bizarre fool. But here in the States, it’s not exactly the norm. But don’t worry. It tastes just like chicken! We bet you’ve heard that one before.
But there’s a good reason for this. Alligator meat is very lean and low in fat. As a matter of fact, some consider it healthy food! These reptiles are hunters, so it’s no wonder their bodies are protein-rich. If you try it, you’ll get a lot of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and niacin.
The most popular part of this bizarre food is the alligator tail. Typically the meat is grilled or pan-fried, served with a rich sauce or unique glaze. Their ribs are also served glazed after a slow braise in the oven. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, try the legs. The gamey, tough texture makes for some optimal fried appetizers.
Texas, Florida, South Carolina, and Louisiana are the only states where hunting these animals is allowed. After all, the Federally protected American alligator is an endangered species.
#3 Squirrel, the Bizarre Food From Your Backyard
Have you ever eaten squirrel? Like most items in our bizarre foods list, squirrel meat is packed with protein and contains plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. So it’s good for you!
But you need to be careful about when you eat squirrels. And we’re not talking about whether it’s for lunch or dinner. You should stay away from squirrel meat during the summer. The season is ripe for parasites, ticks, and fleas, making them likely unwanted guests on the dinner table.
Not only that, but experts say removing the brain and glands is a must. Safety first!
You’re not going to find squirrel on your next Michelin-starred dinner. But country folk find nothing wrong with a little squirrel stew, soup, or spit roast. Just be sure to burn the hair off first.
Interested in more bizarre foods? Check out Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer’s Guide.
#4 The Bizarre Food That Slithers
Rattlesnake holds special healing powers in some parts of the world. But that doesn’t change the fact that eating this deadly creature may seem very scary. Perhaps it’s this fear that makes Texas rattlesnake-eating contests so popular. Don’t mess with Texas!
But folks down in Louisiana like to eat this bizarre food too. Some say it tastes just like chicken. Of course, they would. On the other hand, other folks might tell you rattlesnake tastes quite gamey or earthy. The sinewy meat is filled with tiny ribs. But if you braise them just right, the ribs will soften and practically disappear.
Cooks get creative when it comes to serving up rattlesnake. Some coat it with lard before braising it in chilies vegetable stock. Others like to batter, deep fry it, and serve it with a nice chili. Marinating this bizarre food overnight is the secret trick to making it tasty.
Regardless of how you like it, remember that trying to catch a rattler is extremely dangerous! Plus, most species are endangered, so each state law differs on whether you can legally eat it in the first place.
#5 The Bizarre Food That Sounds Like Shellfish
Have you ever heard of rocky mountain oysters? You won’t find them on any seafood menu. And you probably won’t find many friends who have tried them. These so-called oysters are bull testicles. The nickname hails from the old West when the Colorado cowboys started the tradition.
Because it’s customary for ranchers to castrate young bulls, old west pioneers thought it best not to waste them. And when people bread and deep fry them, they kind of have the shape of an oyster.
Nowadays, you can find this totally bizarre food as far north as New Hampshire!
We’ll let you guess what rock mountain oysters supposedly taste like. Although most say bull gonads taste like chicken, some experts say they’re more like a thin pork tenderloin. And they’re juicy.
You can find rocky mountain oysters served up grilled, deep-fried, or sauteed. If you’re looking for adventure, you can seek out festivals centered around this culinary oddity. Your best bet is planning a visit to Nevada, Colorado, and, of course, Texas.
Try something different by ordering a dish at one of these 7 Most Unique Restaurants in the USA
Are You a Foodie Adventurer?
Well, there you have it. Five bizarre foods you can put on your bucket list. For the adventurous foodie, daring to go there can be a lot of fun. Outdoor enthusiasts and folks who like grilling have some new options. At the same time, we understand if you find yourself grossed out by all of the above.
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