Could We Interest You In a Nice Iguana?
No, we’re not kidding—and iguana is the least of your worries on this list of exotic meats. From rattlesnake dishes to presently banned meals, feast your eyes on some of the strangest delicacies around the world.
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1. Kangaroo
Despite being Australia’s official animal, kangaroos aren’t safe from being packaged and prepared. As a largely traded meat, they’re high in protein, low in fat, and have a distinctive flavor similar to lean beef. Their being hunted led to an outcry several years ago, however many locals continue to chow down.
2. Jellyfish
If you find yourself on the other side of the world, be sure to look for jellyfish meat. Countries like Japan, China, and Korea frequently indulge in sliced, dehydrated pieces, though it’s often served alongside other foods like tofu or salads.
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3. Wild Boar
If you’ve ever looked at an adorable pig and wished you could eat its wild, more muscular cousin, boar is for you. However, keep in mind that some people warn about its awful flavor while others say it tastes close enough to the pigs we’re all used to.
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4. Ostrich
On our side of the world, it’s hard to look at those big, goofy birds as our next meal—but South Africa frequently indulges in ostrich meat. Despite being a feathered friend, the meat’s consistency is actually closer to beef.
5. Rabbit
Often found on dinner plates across France and Italy, rabbit meat is said to resemble chicken. They may be a little gamey, but they’re a beloved choice for popular dishes like lasagna, stews, and gnocchi.
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6. Shark
Forget their terrifying appearance and longstanding reputation—shark meat is widely eaten across the world. You can chow down on anything from shark steaks in Canada to fermented shark in Iceland (just plug your nose first).
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7. Alligator
Australia, South Africa, and even some parts of the United States offer alligator meat to any adventurous eater. It’s so common, in fact, that this chewy delicacy is easily spotted in grocery stores across the world. As for the taste, plenty say it’s similar to fish.
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8. Venison
Venison is so much more than simple deer meat—it can include anything from moose, elk, and even reindeer. It’s far from a rarity and is considered a special in restaurants across the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand.
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9. Rattlesnake
One way to conquer your fear of snakes is by digging into their gamey flesh. Usually found in Mexico or across the United States, the rattler can be fried, tossed in chili, or grilled on the barbecue.
10. Dog
Animal lovers everywhere caused quite an uproar about the consumption of dog meat across India, China, Korea, and Thailand (among other countries). The sale is widely illegal now, though private consumption is still very much alive.
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11. Guinea Pig
They may be furry friends to us, but Peru and Ecuador largely use guinea pigs for meat. Some say it’s a cross between chicken and pork while others say it’s closer to rabbit. Should you find yourself in either country, you can put your tastebuds to the test.
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12. Cuttlefish
This strange-looking fella is typically found in Japan, Italy, and England. As far as seafood dishes go, its rich, sweet meat is prepared in stirfries or stews, though you can also bake or grill it.
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13. Iguana
Iguanas fear for their lives every day in South America and Mexico, often regarded as a common delicacy. While it might be strange for us, these little reptiles are branded “chicken of the trees” and can be made into anything from tacos to stew.
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14. Whale
Though banned across Canada and the United States, countries like Iceland, Norway, and Japan still have whales on their menus. It’s actually the star ingredient in some traditional dishes and is said to taste like richer beef.
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15. Horse
You wouldn’t think it to look at them but these majestic beasts are widely consumed across the world. Canada, Russia, the United States, and China are among the top horse meat producers with dishes ranging from filets to common stews.
16. Eel
Eels aren’t much to look at but in parts of Poland, Denmark, and Sweden they’re a common delicacy. Even if eel meat sounds a little strange, you’ve likely already tried it as they’re also popular in sushi restaurants, perhaps better known as unagi.
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17. Frog Legs
You can spot these bent almost-chicken fingers just about anywhere—France, China, Italy, Ukraine, and the United States all indulge in this simple dish. It has a mild flavor akin to chicken and is often served breaded.
18. Turtle
Turtle soup was once a well-known delicacy found in China, Korea, and Japan. You may even have spotted it on tables across Canada and the United States. However, it has since been banned and can score a pretty penny on the black market.
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19. Escargot
You’ve undoubtedly heard the name, but have you ever been brave enough to try escargot? We wouldn’t blame you since this famous appetizer is not only made from snails but is also said to taste like mushrooms.
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20. Yak
These big, hairy guys are commonly consumed across Eastern Asia. Their beef-like flavor apparently makes a great steak or is the perfect addition to pasta sauce.
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