Shark preserved in urine, sheep's eye juice, and more of the world's most bizarre foods

Gastronomy is something that can generate surprises. Many people have no clear idea of the wide variety of ducks that exist in the world.

Each country or region, depending on characteristics such as its location, climate, temperatures, and access to resources, has managed to create its own dishes and make them part of its identity . Some are clearly more well-known than others, to the point that there are cases of preparations consumed in different latitudes.

(You can read: You Won't Like It: What Happens to Your Food Every Time a Fly Steps on It ).

On the other hand, there are also preparations known only locally and this, in some cases, is due to how particular or extravagant they may be, due to their ingredients that, for many, may be unconventional or impressive .

These are some examples of unusual dishes that can be found in different countries around the world:

Sheep's eye juice

This traditional Mongolian drink is commonly used as a hangover remedy. It consists of salty tomato juice to which a raw sheep's eye is added, floating at the bottom of the glass. Its consumption is part of ancient nomadic customs, and although it may seem shocking, in the local culture it is considered revitalizing and nourishing.

(More: Attention: If you are gaining weight, this may be one of the unimaginable causes .)

Bull's penis

Consumed in several countries, especially China and parts of Latin America , bull penis is served boiled, stewed, or fried. It is believed to have aphrodisiac properties and benefits for male vitality. At culinary festivals or exotic markets, it is often included in unusual dishes that attract both locals and intrepid tourists.

Bat soup

This controversial dish is found primarily in some Pacific islands and parts of Southeast Asia . It's made with whole fruit bats cooked in a broth of herbs and spices. Although it's a traditional recipe in some cultures, it has been the subject of international debate for health and ethical reasons, especially in the wake of recent pandemics.

(You might be interested in: Not everything is what it seems: the true origins of the world's most famous foods ).

Hakarl

Originally from Iceland , hákarl is Greenland shark meat that is buried for weeks to ferment and then air-dried. This process removes the fish's natural toxins. Its pungent odor and strong flavor make it a challenge for many visitors, but for Icelanders, it's a time-honored tradition served at festivals like Þorrablót.

Mouse wine

This peculiar concoction originates from China and the Korean Peninsula , where it is made by placing hairless mouse pups in a bottle of rice wine and letting them ferment for several months. It is believed to have medicinal properties, especially for respiratory or liver problems. Although it is shocking to many, in some rural areas it is still valued as a traditional tonic.

Casu March

Casu marzu is a typical sheep cheese from Sardinia, Italy , known for containing live fly larvae. These larvae help ferment the cheese until it reaches a very soft texture. Despite being banned by European Union food regulations, it continues to be produced by hand and consumed locally as a delicacy for the most adventurous palates.

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