15 Surprisingly Delicious Foods Most People Haven’t Experienced

I used to think I’d tried just about everything when it came to food—until I realized how many incredible flavors I was missing out on. Some dishes fly under the radar, while others seem too unusual to try. But the best meals? They’re often the ones you never expected to love.

These 15 surprisingly delicious foods might not be on everyone’s plate, but they absolutely should be. Some are bold, some are comforting, and a few might just change the way you think about food. Step out of your comfort zone—you might just find a new favorite!

1. Black Garlic

Have you ever tried black garlic? This intriguing ingredient is all about rich, sweet, and umami-packed flavors. Imagine balsamic vinegar and caramel had a love child—that’s the taste of black garlic. It’s aged for weeks, transforming regular garlic cloves into tender, black nuggets of flavor.

Originating from Korea, black garlic is beloved in Asian cuisines. Its silky texture and complex taste make it a gourmet favorite. Whether spread on bread or added to sauces, it’s a flavor bomb waiting to happen.

2. Huitlacoche

Often referred to as ‘corn smut’ or ‘Mexican truffle,’ Huitlacoche might sound unusual, but its taste will surprise you. This fungus grows on corn and is celebrated for its earthy, mushroom-like flavor.

In Mexico, huitlacoche is a delicacy, often featured in quesadillas and soups. Its smoky and savory notes make it a gourmet treat. The Aztecs cherished it, and modern chefs are rediscovering its culinary potential.

3. Durian

The infamous ‘king of fruits,’ durian is as divisive as it is delicious. Known for its strong odor, its flavor is a creamy, custard-like blend of sweet and savory.

Popular in Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Thailand, durian is revered for its unique taste and texture. Locals enjoy it fresh, in desserts, or even as a savory dish.

4. Escamoles

Escamoles, dubbed ‘insect caviar,’ are the edible larvae of ants. A Mexican delicacy, they boast a buttery texture and a nutty, slightly cheesy flavor.

Harvested from the roots of agave plants, escamoles have been enjoyed since Aztec times. Typically they’re sautéed with butter and spices, then served with tortillas. Their creamy consistency pairs well with avocado and salsa.

5. Ackee

Ackee, Jamaica’s national fruit, is a treat for the senses. Despite its status, many have yet to try this creamy yet firm delight, which resembles scrambled eggs when cooked.

Native to West Africa, ackee was brought to the Caribbean, where it became a staple. It’s often served with saltfish, onions, and peppers, creating Jamaica’s signature dish.

6. Stinky Tofu

This street food favorite in Taiwan might initially challenge your nose. Afterall, there is a reason why it’s called stinky tofu. But once you try it, your palate will thank you.

Despite its pungent aroma, it’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Fermented in a brine of milk, vegetables, and meat, stinky tofu is deep-fried to perfection. It’s a snack loved across Asia, paired with pickled cabbage or a spicy sauce.

7. Fugu

Pufferfish or Fugu is a Japanese delicacy that requires expert preparation due to its potentially lethal poison. The thrill of tasting fugu lies in its delicate, subtly sweet flavor and tender texture.

With chefs undergoing rigorous training and certification, dining on fugu is a carefully curated experience. It’s often served as sashimi, showcasing the fish’s natural flavor. For thrill-seekers and gourmet lovers, fugu offers an exclusive taste of Japan’s culinary artistry.

8. Century Egg

Century eggs, or preserved eggs, are a Chinese delicacy prized for their gelatinous texture and bold flavors. Despite their look, they offer a rich, savory taste with a hint of ammonia-like sharpness.

Traditionally made by preserving duck or chicken eggs in clay and ash, they develop their unique appearance and flavor over time. They pair wonderfully with congee or cold tofu.

9. Kimchi

It is a staple in Korean cuisine. Kimchi is more than just fermented cabbage. Its spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors create a symphony of taste with each bite.

This beloved dish involves fermenting vegetables with chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. It’s a side dish that complements everything from rice to barbecue.

10. Jellyfish Salad

Jellyfish salad might sound unusual, but its refreshing texture and subtle flavor make it a standout dish. The jellyfish offers a crisp, slightly chewy sensation that’s surprisingly addictive.

Popular in Chinese cuisine, it’s often dressed in sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar, enhancing its delicate taste. It’s an amazing blend of crunch and umami.

11. Fermented Shark

Fermented shark, or hákarl, is an Icelandic specialty known for its strong ammonia smell and challenging flavor profile. It’s made by curing Greenland shark meat, then fermenting it for months.

Considered a rite of passage in Iceland, it’s often served in bite-sized cubes, sometimes paired with a shot of local schnapps. Despite its intense smell, the taste is surprisingly mild.

12. Natto

Fermented soybeans, called natto, might be polarizing due to their sticky texture and strong aroma. But the nutty flavor is cherished by many in Japan. Often served for breakfast with rice and mustard, natto is a nutritious start to the day.

Its health benefits are as impressive as its taste, offering probiotics and protein. If you’re unafraid of unusual textures and bold flavors, natto is a rewarding culinary challenge.

13. Mangosteen

The queen, the Mangosteen! Often called the ‘queen of fruits,’ it is renowned for its exquisite sweetness and delicate texture. Its juicy, white segments taste like a tropical blend of peach and pineapple.

Native to Southeast Asia, this fruit is prized for its refreshing and aromatic qualities. It’s a tropical treat enjoyed fresh or as part of desserts.

14. Bitter Melon

Bitter melon, with its distinct appearance and flavor, is a staple in Asian cuisines. Its bitterness is an acquired taste, but it rewards with a unique culinary experience.

Used in stir-fries, soups, and teas, this gourd is celebrated for its health benefits. It’s a taste that grows on you, offering something truly different from the ordinary.

15. Sea Urchin

Sea urchin, or uni, offers a luxurious taste of the ocean with its creamy, buttery texture and briny sweetness. It’s often enjoyed as sushi or sashimi in Japan.

Praised for its delicate flavor, sea urchin is a gourmet delight. Its rich taste is both indulgent and refreshing, capturing the essence of the sea in a single bite.