The best (and weirdest) snacks from countries around the world
What would a beer at the bar be without the obligatory bowl of peanuts to snack on? We all love a snack, a quick bite on the run to satisfy those hunger pangs, whether it’s a packet of crisps or something gooey and sweet. But not all countries offer the same food when it comes to snacks.
Take a look at some of the weird and wonderful snacks that can be found around the globe.
Snacks from around the world
The ultimate South African snack – Biltong
The first pioneers of South Africa – The Voortrekkers – spent much of their time on the road and to keep their meat from spoiling, they spiced it and hung it out to dry.
This spicy, dried meat became a long-lasting chewy snack and is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most popular snacks – especially when watching a rugby game with a beer.
The United Kingdom – Pork Scratchings
Hard, crunchy, dried and salted, hairy pork fat… delicious as they are, these snacks definitely not for the faint-hearted. Pork scratchings originated in the West Midlands of the United Kingdom as a food of the working classes in the 1800s and have grown to become the perfect companion to a pint down at the pub.
Australia – Witchetty Grub
The witchetty grub is a large, white, wood-eating moth larvae that have historically been a staple in the diets of Aboriginal Australians and more recently, adventurous bushwhackers.
High in protein, the raw witchetty grub has a taste similar to almonds and when cooked, the skin becomes crisp while the inside becomes light yellow and apparently tastes like scrambled egg.
Indian snacks – Vada Pav
Packed with garlic, chili, turmeric, mustard seeds, and ginger, this delicious deep-fried potato snack served on a white bread roll is a staple in Mumbai and other cities in India, often being called an “Indian burger” by tourists.
Mexico – Tamales
Traditionally served on “The Day of the Dead” (El Dia de Los Muertos), these steamed corned husks are a Mexican favourite.
Originating in Mesoamerica as early as 8000 BC, this portable snack can be filled with meats, vegetables, cheese, fruits, or chillies.
Nigeria – Puff Puff
Originating in Nigeria, these deep-fried spongy, sweet donut-like balls made of flour, sugar, and yeast are a staple in most West African countries.
Colombian snacks – Hormigas Culonas (‘Big-Bottomed Ants’)
These “big-bottomed ants”, as they are called in Spanish, are a traditional treat in most South American countries.
The ants are farmed during the rainy season and soaked in water saltwater before they are roasted to a crisp and served as a snack.
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