By Thomas Wong
Quebec is famous for its poutine, a mixture of deep fried strips of potato, gravy and cheese curds, which has become a staple of the Canadian fast food industry and a favourite of people across the nation. However, a brief search on Google reveals that our friends around the world don’t share our love for poutine. In fact, some people have gone as far as calling it downright disgusting! If poutine is gross though, here’s a look at other interesting things that people eat around the globe.
OFFAL
Offal comes from the digestive tract (the intestines, guts, etc.) and organs (liver, kidneys, etc.) of butchered animals. It is a common ingredient in European cooking. Sometimes, offal is prepared by mixing the entrails into a cake of pig or cow blood and gelatin.
SHEEP’S EYEBALLS
In Arabia, the guest of honour at a large feast or function is given the eyes of the sheep that is served at the meal. If it is your first time, it is recommended that you swallow the eyeballs in a single gulp. Only the truly brave dare to bite into the eyes to release the gooey center.
SNAILS
France’s world famous snails (escargots) are usually prepared in a sauce of garlic or chicken stock. Although the snails are removed from their shells before they are cooked, they are placed back into them before being served so that diners can slurp them out.
SCORPIONS
Deep fried scorpions are served on street corners all over China. Don’t bother trying to separate the hard shell (or the stinger for that matter!) from the meat; you’re supposed to eat these guys whole!
MONKEY BRAINS
Raw monkey brain is considered a delicacy by many Asian cultures and is prepared in a very particular way. The raw monkey head is fastened to the table, cut open with a knife at the top and filled with liquor. It is then served with spoons so that everyone can dig in to the delightful brainy mixture.