Would you eat this? 37 strange and surprising foods from abroad

Discover a world of flavors with these 37 strange and surprising foods from abroad. This collection brings together unique and intriguing recipes from around the globe, offering a fresh perspective on international cuisine. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or just curious about different cultures, these dishes provide an exciting way to expand your palate. Get ready to try something new and unexpected right in your own kitchen.

A plate of pasta with mushrooms and sprigs of dill. — Mushroom leek pasta kugel. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Overhead view of hand lifting a spoon of salad. — Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This vibrant Russian Vinaigrette Salad, ready in 45 minutes, features beets, carrots, potatoes, and pickles. The combination creates a unique sweet and tangy flavor that is both refreshing and hearty. It’s a colorful side dish that pairs well with many main courses. The taste is earthy and slightly sour, perfect for those who enjoy robust root vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

Slices of chocolate pistachio cake. — No-bake chocolate pistachio cake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The No-bake chocolate pistachio cake is a quick and easy dessert that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Featuring layers of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios, it offers a delightful contrast in textures. This cake is perfect for chocolate lovers who also appreciate a nutty twist. The flavor is decadent and satisfying, making it a great treat for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: No-bake chocolate pistachio cake

Ukrainian Cucumber Salad

Overhead view of cucumber salad. — Ukrainian Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ukrainian Cucumber Salad is a light and refreshing dish ready in just 15 minutes. Made with fresh cucumbers, dill, and a simple dressing of vinegar and oil, it’s crisp and tangy. This salad is a perfect side for heavier meals, balancing out richer flavors. The taste is clean and fresh, ideal for warm weather.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Cucumber Salad

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate. — Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting meal that takes about an hour to prepare. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, which makes it tender and flavorful, while the potatoes bake to a golden crisp. This dish is hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner. The taste is savory and rich, with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant Tomato Stacks are a simple yet elegant dish that takes about 30 minutes to make. Layers of eggplant and tomato are baked together, creating a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner. The taste is fresh and wholesome, highlighting the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella is a flavorful dish that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. It features chicken marinated in a mix of prunes, olives, capers, and herbs, resulting in a sweet and savory combination. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home. The taste is complex and rich, with a delightful balance of sweet and salty notes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Baked creamy salmon

Grilled salmon and potatoes on a baking sheet. — Baked creamy salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Baked creamy salmon is a delicious and nutritious meal that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The salmon is baked with a creamy sauce made from sour cream, dill, and lemon, resulting in a rich and tangy flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. The taste is smooth and savory, with a refreshing hint of citrus.
Get the Recipe: Baked creamy salmon

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta is a trendy and tasty dish that takes about 40 minutes to make. The main ingredients are feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and pasta, which are baked together to create a creamy and flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. The taste is rich and tangy, with a burst of sweetness from the tomatoes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs. — Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta is a healthy and flavorful dish that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are white beans, feta cheese, and a mix of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. The taste is fresh and tangy, with a creamy texture from the feta.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

The perfect rice pilaf

Rice pilaf in copper saucepan. — The perfect rice pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The perfect rice pilaf is a simple yet flavorful dish that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are rice, vegetables, and a mix of spices that give it a rich and aromatic flavor. This dish is perfect as a side for any main course or as a light meal on its own. The taste is savory and fragrant, with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables.
Get the Recipe: The perfect rice pilaf

Uzbek chicken plov

Chicken plov on a plate with a fork. — Uzbek chicken plov. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Uzbek chicken plov is a hearty and aromatic dish that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. The main ingredients are chicken, rice, carrots, and a blend of spices that give it a rich and flavorful taste. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The taste is savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice.
Get the Recipe: Uzbek chicken plov

Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Rosemary Sourdough Bread is a fragrant and delicious bread that takes about 24 hours to prepare, including fermentation time. The main ingredients are sourdough starter, flour, and fresh rosemary, which give it a unique and aromatic flavor. This bread is perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads. The taste is tangy and herbaceous, with a chewy texture.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Mujadara

Mujadara is a hearty and nutritious dish that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, which give it a rich and savory flavor. This dish is perfect as a main course or as a side for grilled meats. The taste is earthy and slightly sweet, with a satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara

Sauteed cabbage with peppers

A plate with mashed potatoes and meat on it. — Sauteed cabbage with peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sauteed cabbage with peppers is a simple and flavorful dish that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are cabbage, bell peppers, and a mix of spices that give it a savory and slightly sweet taste. This dish is perfect as a side for any main course or as a light meal on its own. The taste is fresh and crisp, with a hint of spice.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed cabbage with peppers

Grilled chicken kofta kebab

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges. — Grilled chicken kofta kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a delicious and aromatic dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are ground chicken, herbs, and spices, which give it a rich and flavorful taste. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a part of a larger meal. The taste is savory and slightly spicy, with a tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Grilled chicken kofta kebab

Russian cottage cheese pancakes

Russian raisin pancakes. — Russian cottage cheese pancakes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian cottage cheese pancakes, known as syrniki, are a delightful breakfast treat that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are cottage cheese, flour, and eggs, resulting in a light and fluffy pancake. These pancakes are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast. The taste is slightly sweet and creamy, with a tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Russian cottage cheese pancakes

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan. — Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a quick and easy meal that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are chicken, bell peppers, and potatoes, all seasoned with paprika for a rich and smoky flavor. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The taste is savory and slightly spicy, with a satisfying crunch from the vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Argentinian Empanadas

Empanadas on a plate. — Argentinian Empanadas. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Argentinian Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are a savory filling of vegetables or meat, wrapped in a flaky pastry. These empanadas are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or light meal. The taste is rich and flavorful, with a satisfying crunch from the pastry.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread

Overhead view of sliced cornbread. — Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread is a flavorful twist on a classic that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are cornmeal, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños, resulting in a spicy and cheesy bread. This cornbread is perfect as a side for chili or a barbecue. The taste is savory and slightly spicy, with a moist and crumbly texture.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread

Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)

Overhead view of olivier salad with two egg halves. — Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian Potato Salad, also known as Olivier Salad, is a hearty dish that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are potatoes, carrots, peas, and pickles, mixed with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This salad is perfect for potlucks or as a side dish for any meal. The taste is rich and tangy, with a satisfying crunch from the vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)

Cherry cobbler

Cherry cobbler is a sweet and comforting dessert that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh cherries, sugar, and a buttery biscuit topping. This cobbler is perfect for a summer dessert or a special treat. The taste is sweet and tart, with a warm and gooey texture.
Get the Recipe: Cherry cobbler

Mushroom leek pasta kugel

Mushroom leek pasta kugel is a savory and satisfying dish that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are pasta, mushrooms, leeks, and a creamy sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful casserole. This kugel is perfect for a holiday meal or a special dinner. The taste is earthy and creamy, with a tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom leek pasta kugel

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks on a plate. — Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks are a flavorful and aromatic dish that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are chicken drumsticks, garlic, and a blend of spices, resulting in a savory and slightly spicy flavor. These drumsticks are perfect for a family dinner or a barbecue. The taste is rich and tender, with a hint of heat.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Black sesame sourdough buns

Sesame buns with sesame seeds on a wooden cutting board. — Black sesame sourdough buns. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Black sesame sourdough buns are a unique and delicious bread that takes about 24 hours to prepare, including fermentation time. The main ingredients are sourdough starter, flour, and black sesame seeds, resulting in a nutty and tangy flavor. These buns are perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads. The taste is savory and slightly nutty, with a chewy texture.
Get the Recipe: Black sesame sourdough buns

Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce

A slice of apple cake on a plate with apples next to it. — Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce is a sweet and indulgent dessert that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. The main ingredients are apples, honey, and a rich caramel sauce, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake. This cake is perfect for a special occasion or a holiday dessert. The taste is sweet and tangy, with a rich and buttery finish.
Get the Recipe: Honey apple cake with salted caramel sauce

Gluten free pecan pie with maple syrup and maple dulce de leche cream

Close up of pecan pie with dulce de leche cream. — Gluten free pecan pie with maple syrup and maple dulce de leche cream. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Gluten-free pecan pie with maple syrup and maple dulce de leche cream is a decadent dessert that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. The main ingredients are pecans, maple syrup, and a creamy dulce de leche topping, resulting in a rich and nutty flavor. This pie is perfect for a holiday dessert or a special treat. The taste is sweet and buttery, with a satisfying crunch from the pecans.
Get the Recipe: Gluten free pecan pie with maple syrup and maple dulce de leche cream

Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Sheet pan salmon and cauliflower. — Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner is a flavorful and easy meal that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are salmon, a mix of vegetables, and Moroccan spices, resulting in a rich and aromatic flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The taste is savory and slightly spicy, with a tender and flaky texture.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Gluten-free apple cake

A plate of apple pie with a slice taken out of it. — Gluten-free apple cake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Gluten-free apple cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that takes about an hour to prepare. The main ingredients are apples, gluten-free flour, and a mix of spices, resulting in a sweet and aromatic cake. This cake is perfect for a special occasion or a holiday dessert. The taste is sweet and tangy, with a tender and moist texture.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-free apple cake

Blueberry Muffins

Lemon and blueberry muffin halves with lemon and blueberries. — Blueberry Muffins. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Blueberry Muffins are a classic and delicious treat that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh blueberries, flour, and a touch of sugar, resulting in a sweet and fruity flavor. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack. The taste is sweet and tart, with a moist and fluffy texture.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Muffins

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Side view of slice of moussaka. — Greek Vegetarian Moussaka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka is a hearty and flavorful dish that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. The main ingredients are eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. This moussaka is perfect for a special dinner or a holiday meal. The taste is savory and slightly sweet, with a creamy and tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake

Osyter bake casserole on table with linen and herbs. — The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake is a luxurious and savory dish that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh oysters, cream, and a mix of herbs and spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful bake. This dish is perfect for a special brunch or holiday meal. The taste is savory and creamy, with a tender and briny texture.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Brunch Oyster Bake

Classic white fish in white wine sauce

White fish fillets on a white plate with lemon wedges and fork. — Classic white fish in white wine sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Classic white fish in white wine sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are white fish, white wine, and a mix of herbs and spices, resulting in a light and flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The taste is savory and slightly tangy, with a tender and flaky texture.
Get the Recipe: Classic white fish in white wine sauce

Sourdough Focaccia

Sourdough Focaccia is a delicious and aromatic bread that takes about 24 hours to prepare, including fermentation time. The main ingredients are sourdough starter, flour, and olive oil, resulting in a rich and flavorful bread. This focaccia is perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads. The taste is tangy and savory, with a chewy and airy texture.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Focaccia

Paleo strawberry scones

Side view of two scones on top of each other. — Paleo strawberry scones. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Paleo strawberry scones are a healthy and flavorful treat that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are almond flour, fresh strawberries, and a touch of honey, resulting in a sweet and nutty flavor. These scones are perfect for breakfast or a snack. The taste is sweet and slightly tart, with a tender and crumbly texture.
Get the Recipe: Paleo strawberry scones

Russian Piroshki

Three piroshki on a plate with tea. — Russian Piroshki. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian Piroshki are a delicious and versatile dish that takes about an hour and a half to prepare. The main ingredients are a savory filling of vegetables or meat, wrapped in a soft and fluffy dough. These piroshki are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or light meal. The taste is rich and flavorful, with a satisfying crunch from the pastry.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki

Raw Sweet Lime Bars

Side view of lime bars on a grey plate. — Raw Sweet Lime Bars. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Raw Sweet Lime Bars are a refreshing and healthy dessert that takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. The main ingredients are lime juice, nuts, and a touch of honey, resulting in a sweet and tangy flavor. These bars are perfect for a light dessert or a snack. The taste is sweet and tart, with a creamy and crunchy texture.
Get the Recipe: Raw Sweet Lime Bars

Ukha Russian Fish Soup

Overhead view of blue bowl of soup. — Ukha Russian Fish Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ukha Russian Fish Soup is a traditional and hearty dish that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh fish, potatoes, and a mix of herbs and spices, resulting in a rich and savory broth. This soup is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day. The taste is earthy and slightly tangy, with a light and clear broth.
Get the Recipe: Ukha Russian Fish Soup