Exotic Adventure: My Journey Through Exotic Foods Around the Globe
I've traveled to four continents and consider myself a true foodie, so I'm not one to shy away from trying local delicacies. When I'm on vacation, I always make it a point to sample the local cuisine. However, some of the dishes I've encountered have been quite unusual, to say the least.
Trinidad and Tobago: Curried Crabs
My journey began in 1995 when I attended a wedding in Trinidad and Tobago. My god brother, who was stationed at the US Embassy in Port of Spain, was getting married to a local girl. After the ceremony, we made our way to Tobago, another island, where we dined at a local beachside restaurant. My cousin ordered curried crabs, a local specialty. While crabs are a common dish back home in Maryland, the ones in Tobago were quite different. They were covered in a hairy shell and, to make matters worse, had what looked like green curry vomit from an exorcist all over them.
That night, I downed a few swigs of Trinidadian rum to steel my nerves before I tackled my meal. I was pleasantly surprised—surprised at how fantastic, delicious, and succulent the dish was. It was worth the mess, and the green curry covered with spiciness and the firm and sweet crab meat made it an unforgettable experience for me.
Kenya: Ox Balls and Ostrich Meatballs
During a safari in Kenya, our group dined at a restaurant called Carnivore, where we were offered a variety of exotic dishes, including ox balls and ostrich meatballs. While we tried both, the texture and flavor left something to be desired. They were not as appealing as I had hoped, and I was not a fan.
Ecuador: Guinea Pig Sandwich
In Ecuador, I had the chance to try guinea pig, a special dish in the country. In fact, in one cathedral, there was a painting of Jesus at the last supper, showing guinea pig being served. Despite my adventurous spirit, I have my limits. When it comes to Dutch salted herring, I find it unimaginable to even try, let alone eat it, as it is too slimy for my tastes.
The Unforgettable Thai Experience
One of my most memorable trips to Thailand was a real baptism by fire. Although Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries I have visited, there was one delicacy that I found truly challenging. Mango/durian rice, a dish that I couldn’t resist trying due to the temptation of the exotic mixture of flavors. However, after I tasted it, I had to clear my system three times that day. The experience was unforgettable, and I must admit, it was the most daring choice ever made during my travel adventures.
In conclusion, while I am a huge travel freak who seeks new experiences and challenges in new places, the world of exotic foods is vast and diverse. Some dishes push my adventurous limits, pushing me towards my comfort zone and making my trips truly unforgettable.