As a digital nomad, traveling and exploring new places is a significant part of your lifestyle. One of the best things about traveling is discovering new and exciting foods. Every country has its unique cuisine, and trying out the local delicacies is an essential part of any travel experience. While some local dishes may seem strange or unusual at first, they can often be surprisingly delicious. Here are five unexpected local delicacies that you must try as a digital nomad.
1. Balut – Philippines
Balut is a popular street food in the Philippines, and it is not for the faint-hearted. It is essentially a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten with salt and vinegar. The egg is typically incubated for around 18 days, which means that the embryo inside has already developed into a partially formed duckling. When you crack open the shell, you will find a mixture of yolk, white, and a small, partially formed duckling. While it may sound unappetizing, balut is actually considered a delicacy in the Philippines, and many locals swear by its health benefits.
Balut is a common food in the Philippines, and it is often eaten as a snack or as a meal. It is believed to be an excellent source of protein, and it is also said to have aphrodisiac properties. Balut is sold by street vendors in the Philippines, and it is often served with salt and vinegar. To eat balut, you need to crack open the shell and drink the liquid inside. Then, you can eat the yolk and the partially formed duckling. Balut is an acquired taste, and it may take some time to get used to the texture and flavor.
2. Haggis – Scotland
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish that is made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, and spices. The mixture is then stuffed into a sheep’s stomach and boiled for several hours. While the ingredients may sound unappetizing, haggis is actually a delicious and hearty dish that is often served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). It is a must-try for any digital nomad visiting Scotland.
Haggis is a popular dish in Scotland, and it is often served on special occasions such as Burns Night. It is also a common dish in Scottish cuisine, and it is often served in pubs and restaurants. Haggis has a rich, savory flavor, and it is usually served with neeps and tatties, which are mashed turnips and potatoes. Some people also like to eat haggis with a glass of whiskey, which is a traditional Scottish drink.
3. Escamoles – Mexico
Escamoles are the larvae of ants that are found in the roots of agave plants in Mexico. They are considered a delicacy in some parts of the country and are often referred to as “insect caviar.” The larvae are typically sautéed with butter, garlic, and spices and served in tacos or on their own. While the idea of eating ant larvae may seem strange, escamoles are actually quite tasty and have a nutty, buttery flavor.
Escamoles are a traditional food in Mexico, and they are often eaten during the rainy season when the ants are most abundant. They are considered a delicacy in some parts of the country, and they are often served in high-end restaurants. Escamoles are usually sautéed with butter, garlic, and spices, and they can be eaten on their own or in tacos. They have a unique flavor that is nutty and buttery, and they are often compared to cottage cheese or scrambled eggs.
4. Casu Marzu – Sardinia
Casu Marzu is a traditional Sardinian cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. What makes this cheese unique is that it is intentionally infested with cheese flies, which lay their eggs inside the cheese. The larvae then hatch and start to eat the cheese, breaking down the fats and proteins and creating a soft, creamy texture. While the cheese is technically illegal in many countries due to health concerns, it is still widely consumed in Sardinia. It is typically served with bread or crackers and has a strong, pungent flavor.
Casu Marzu is a controversial cheese that is unique to Sardinia. It is made by allowing cheese flies to lay their eggs inside the cheese, which then hatch and eat the cheese. The cheese is left to ferment for several months, and it develops a soft, creamy texture. Casu Marzu has a strong, pungent flavor, and it is often compared to blue cheese. While the cheese is technically illegal in many countries due to health concerns, it is still widely consumed in Sardinia, where it is considered a delicacy.
5. Tuna Eyeball – Japan
Tuna eyeball is a popular snack in Japan, especially among fishermen. The eyeballs are typically boiled or grilled and served with soy sauce and wasabi. While the idea of eating a fish eyeball may seem unappetizing, the dish is actually quite tasty and has a texture similar to squid or octopus. It is also said to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients.
Tuna eyeball is a popular snack in Japan, and it is often served in izakayas, which are traditional Japanese pubs. The eyeballs are typically boiled or grilled and served with soy sauce and wasabi. They have a chewy texture and a mild, savory flavor. Tuna eyeballs are said to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, and they are often eaten by fishermen for their health benefits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, trying out local delicacies is an essential part of any travel experience, and as a digital nomad, you have the opportunity to discover new and exciting foods from around the world. While some local dishes may seem strange or unusual at first, they can often be surprisingly delicious. So, be adventurous and try out these unexpected local delicacies on your next travel adventure.