If you’re looking for an interesting and exotic culinary experience, you should check out the street food markets in China. Here you will find all sorts of strange and delicious foods. From chicken feet to sea cucumbers, there is something for everyone. This blog post will look at 50 of the weirdest but most delicious things found at these markets. So if you’re feeling adventurous, add Chinese street food markets to your list of destinations!
Live Silkworm Pupae
If you’re looking for something unique and exotic, look no further than live silkworm pupae! These little guys are still alive when you eat them and have a slightly crunchy texture. They’re often served with a vinegar dip and taste best when fresh. However, they are also served deep-fried and are said to be crunchy and chewy.
While this dish is not for everyone, those brave enough to try it often find it surprisingly delicious. So if you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try them the next time you’re exploring a Chinese street food market. You may just find that you’ve discovered your new favorite snack!
Flying Lizard
Many people who love Chinese street food would lick their lips when they hear the words crispy fried flying lizard. A popular dish at Chinese street food markets, it is made by coating a whole lizard in batter and deep frying it until it gets golden brown and crisp. The result is a crunchy, savory treat that will delight your taste buds.
Dipped in sauces or simply enjoyed as is, flying lizard is a delicious and unusual street food that is definitely worth trying! Not everyone might like this, but it is definitely a weird but delicious dish found at Chinese street food markets!
Snake Soup
Snake soup is a traditional Chinese soup made with snake meat and various herbs. The dish is said to have many health benefits, including boosting energy levels and aiding in weight loss. Snake soup is often served during special occasions or as a wintertime treat.
While the thought of eating snake meat may not be appetizing to everyone, those who have tried it often say that it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. We recommend giving this unique soup a try at least once! You might feel disgusted by it before you try it, but once you try it, you might ask for more.
Roasted Cat
You might not believe it, but a roasted cat is actually a popular street food in China. While the thought of eating our feline friends might be repulsive to some, others find the meat to be quite delicious. It is usually served with the skin still on and is often garnished with onions and peppers.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something truly unique, then a roasted cat is definitely worth a try. You might just find yourself becoming a fan! People who have a pet cat might be shocked by it, but sometimes you just have to respect the local culture and try the delicacies that they offer.
Roasted Crocodile
If you’re looking for something different and weird, why not try roasted crocodile? It’s a unique dish you won’t find as easily in many other parts of the world. Crocodile meat is also eaten in many other parts of the world, but it is usually very expensive and is only sometimes available.
However, in China, it is easy to find it in the streets. The meat is typically roasted and has a chewy texture that resembles fish a little bit. It is often served with vegetables or rice complemented by a delicious sauce.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are a type of insect that is commonly found in homes and other buildings. They are attracted to food and water sources, which is why they are often seen in kitchens and bathrooms. While most people are disgusted by cockroaches and do not even consider eating them, some people in China enjoy this dish a lot. Cockroaches are typically deep-fried until they are crispy. They can be eaten as is or added to other dishes for extra flavor.
Some people believe that cockroaches have medicinal properties and that they can help with various health conditions. Whether or not this is true, there is no denying that cockroaches are a unique and interesting food to try.
Sheep Head
Sheep head is a popular dish in many parts of China. The head is cooked whole, and the meat is picked off the bones. Sheep head is often served with a spicy dipping sauce, which is said to be both delicious and nutritious. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try this unusual dish next time you’re in China?
You never know you may just find your new favorite dish, and it is something that you can easily find in your own local country as well. Sheep is a very common livestock worldwide and is easily available. However, you need to know how to cook it right to have the same experience as delicious street food in China.
Black Moldy Tofu That Stinks Reeeaaally Bad
Black moldy tofu is a Chinese street food that is often described as ‘extremely stinky’. The tofu is typically made from soybeans that have been fermented and allowed to rot, resulting in a black, slimy and incredibly smelly product. Despite its unappetizing appearance and smell, black and moldy tofu is actually quite delicious, with a unique umami flavor that is unlike anything else.
If you’re brave enough to try it, be sure to get it from a reputable street food vendor who prepares it properly. You might find yourself hooked on this weird but delicious Chinese street food!
Pigeon
Pigeon is a common sight at Chinese street food markets, and while it may not look the most appetizing, they can actually be quite delicious. The bird is usually roasted or grilled, and its small size means that it cooks quickly and evenly.
The flesh is typically very tender and juicy, and the skin has a nice crispy texture. Pigeon is often served with a dip or drizzled with soy sauce and vinegar. It is a relatively tolerable Chinese street food, and it is actually eaten in many other parts of the world.
Balut: Duck Embryo
A balut is a duck egg that has been incubated for 17-21 days before it is hatched. The embryo inside the egg is fully developed and can be eaten. Balut is a popular street food in China and other Asian countries. It is often served with a dipping sauce, chili or vinegar. Balut is a controversial food because some believe it is unethical to eat an unborn animal.
However, others argue that the duck embryo is not a sentient being and, therefore, eating it is not morally wrong. Whether you find balut delicious or repulsive, there’s no denying that it is a unique and interesting food. If you’re ever in China or another South East Asian country, try it!
Fried Tarantulas
Many people are scared of spiders, and one of the most frightening spider species is the Tarantula. Tarantulas are a type of spider found in many parts of the world, including Australia, South America, and China. They are considered a delicacy and are often fried before being eaten. Tarantulas are said to have a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet taste.
While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, many people enjoy eating fried tarantulas as a snack. If you have ever been scared of spiders, then there is no better way to take your revenge than by eating them.
Sea Cucumber
Sea cucumbers are a type of marine invertebrate commonly found in the ocean around China. They have a long, cylindrical bodies with leathery skin and small, tube-like tentacles. Sea cucumbers are often used in Chinese cuisine, typically boiled or stewed. While some sea cucumbers are eaten raw, most are cooked to make them more palatable. When cooked, sea cucumbers have a slightly crunchy texture and a mild, earthy flavor.
They are often used as a garnish or added to soups and stews for extra flavor. Sea cucumbers are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and E. They also contain various minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. While they are often considered a delicacy, sea cucumbers can be an acquired taste for some people.
Tuna Eyeball
We just can’t help but feel a little uncomfortable when seeing this. However, tuna eyeball is a popular street food in China. It is a deep-fried eyeball of tuna fish that has been boiled and then skewered on a stick. The eyeball is then coated in flour, egg, and water batter.
This creates a crunchy outer layer that encases the soft, cooked fiber. If you are a seafood lover, then you should definitely try this and tick one more exotic dish off your seafood list. Once you try it, you will definitely talk about your experience with all your friends and family.
Bird’s Nest Soup
Bird’s nest soup is a traditional Chinese dish with real bird nests. The nests are made out of the saliva of the swiftlet bird and are commonly found in Southeast Asia. The soup is said to be nutritious and has many health benefits. It is often served as a luxurious and expensive dish in Chinese restaurants. We would rather prefer eating a nest made with leaves, but there are millions of people who love to eat this nest made of bird saliva.
It just feels a little unhygienic however the Chinese people have been eating it for a long time, and it is not a dangerous food. However, if you have a weak stomach, we recommend staying away from it.
Centipedes
Who would want to eat these guys? One of the weird but delicious things that can be found at Chinese street food markets is centipedes. These creatures may not look appetizing, but they are actually popular snacks in China. Centipedes are either roasted or deep-fried and are often served with a sweet and sour sauce.
They are said to be crunchy and have a slightly nutty flavor. While the idea of eating a centipede may be off-putting to some, those who have tried it say that it is actually quite delicious. It is definitely worth giving it a try if you are adventurous enough!
Dog Meat
Dog meat is a popular dish in China and can be found at many street food markets. The meat is usually stewed or roasted and sometimes served with noodles or rice. It is said to be tender and delicious, although some foreigners find eating dog meat taboo. Many people who eat cow or goat meat draw the line at dog meat. However, it is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in China for centuries. If you are adventurous and not squeamish about trying new things, then dog meat may be worth a try! You might like it.
An annual dog-eating festival in the city of Yulin, Guangxi Province, attracts people from all over China. However, the festival has gained a lot of negative publicity recently, with animal rights activists protesting against it.
Bamboo Worms
Bamboo worms are small, white worms that live in bamboo forests. They are a common food in Chinese street markets and are often fried or served in soup. Bamboo worms have a slightly nutty flavor and are high in protein. They are crunchy when eaten whole, but their bodies can also be squeezed to release a sweet, sticky liquid.
Bamboo worms are safe to eat and are not harmful to humans. However, they can sometimes contain parasites that may cause illness if not cooked properly. So always be careful to try these bamboo worms from a local place that knows how to cook them well!
Caterpillar Fungus
You can find the weirdest things being sold on Chinese street food markets, and one of those things is the caterpillar fungus. The fungus lives inside the body of the caterpillar. The caterpillar fungus is a curious foodstuff that is popular in Chinese cuisine. It is actually a type of mushroom that parasitizes caterpillars, resulting in rather unusual-looking fungi.
The taste is said to be earthy and slightly sweet, making it a popular ingredient in soups. While it may not be the most visually appealing food, the caterpillar fungus is definitely worth trying if you want to expand your culinary horizons.
Bat Soup
Keeping the recent events in mind, we wouldn’t recommend eating anything that has a bat in it. However, if you still want to try something new, you should go for the bat soup. You might not think that soup made from bats would be delicious, but in some parts of China, it is considered a delicacy. Simmering bat wings make the soup in water until they are cooked through.
Then, the bat meat is removed from the bones and chopped into small pieces. The bat pieces are added back into the soup and some vegetables. The soup is then served hot and usually garnished with green onions.
Duck Blood Soup
Duck blood soup is a popular dish in many Chinese regions. The soup is made with duck blood, rice wine, and various spices. It is often served with noodles or rice. Duck blood soup has a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a thick, sticky texture. It is not something you would eat every day at your house but for foreign travelers it can be great for once in a lifetime experience.
People who visit China should know that there are many edibles that they might find weird but are considered completely normal in China. So if you want to experience the local culture, you have to keep an open mind and try such food. There is a reason so many Chinese people love these food items and that reason is the delicious taste that they offer. So if you get a chance, don’t forget to try it.
Fried Cicadas
Bugs are often considered icky and gross, but in many cultures, they are a delicacy! The cicada is one such insect. In addition to China, cicadas are actually eaten in many other parts of the world. They are typically fried and served as a snack or side dish.
While cicadas may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there’s no denying that they are definitely a weird but delicious food found at Chinese street markets! Cicadas are rich in protein and have a crunchy texture. Some people believe that they taste similar to shrimp.
Giant Octopus
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, and dare we say, a little bit weird, then Chinese street food markets are definitely the place to go. With so many different food items sold on the street in China, the Giant Octopus is sure to turn many heads towards itself. Giant octopus is one of the more popular options on offer. The octopus is boiled until it’s nice and tender, then served whole on a plate. You can eat it as is, or add a little bit of soy sauce or vinegar for extra flavor. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try the grilled version!
Or if you are a daredevil, you can also try eating a live octopus however we would recommend having a local teach you first on how to eat a live octopus as the tentacles can still move, and they may get stuck onto your tongue or throat.
Sea Serpent
We all know the mythical creature known as the sea serpent. But did you know that there are real animals with the same name? They are not as big as their Mythical counterpart, but they can still be very scary. However, that doesn’t stop the food enthusiast from trying this Chinese street food. The sea serpent is usually roasted on a skewers and then served with a tasty sauce.
Many people say it tastes like chicken but with a fishier flavor. So if you are ever in china and see this on the menu, don’t be afraid to try it.
Sheep Genitals
A sheep’s Genitalia is a common sight at Chinese street food markets. While the idea of eating these organs may be off-putting to some, they can actually be quite delicious. In other parts of the world, such body parts are off the table when it comes to cooking animals however, in China, they don’t like to waste anything. And that is why you get to try some of the weirdest and odd-looking food items here.
The shape of the genitals itself is very off-putting. It is said it can actually help men boost their sexual power, and that is why many men in China consume it on a regular basis.
Turtle Jelly (Guilinggao)
Guilinggao is a Chinese jelly made from tortoises or turtles. This is why it is also called Turtle Jelly. It is by far one of the most unique food items we have mentioned on this list. Guilinggao is said to have cooling properties and is often eaten during the summer. The jelly has a slightly grassy taste and a chewy texture. If you are ever in China, do not miss out on the chance to try this delicious treat!
As you can see from the picture, the jelly actually looks pretty good, and it is said to have health benefits: it improves kidney function and blood circulation, makes your skin better, etc.
Monkey Brains
A truly unique dish, monkey brains are rarely found outside of China. As the name suggests, this dish consists of – you guessed it – monkey brains. The monkey is killed and then its brain is removed and eaten raw or cooked in various ways. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, those who have tried it say it’s actually quite delicious. Cow brains are eaten regularly in many countries and it is considered normal.
So why not try monkey brain as well? After all, monkeys are quite intelligent so you never know eating a monkey’s brain might help you become smarter.
Devilish Sausages Made With Pig Blood
We cannot deny the fact that sausages are delicious. However, it also depends on the animal meat used in making those sausages. In China, people like to eat devilish sausages, which are actually made with pig blood. They are actually quite popular in China. These sausages are made with pig blood, rice, and spices and then grilled or fried. They have a slightly salty taste and a chewy texture.
Some people compare them to haggis, a Scottish dish made with sheep’s stomachs. While pig blood sausages may not be to everyone’s taste, there’s no doubt that they are a unique entry on our list.
Pickled Jellyfish
Pickled jellyfish can be found at many wet markets. It is made by soaking jellyfish in a pickling solution, which gives it a unique sour and salty flavor. The texture is often chewy and crunchy, making it a popular snack. It is sometimes also considered a main dish, but it is usually served as a snack or a side dish.
In China you can also find it being served as part of a salad. The jellyfish is first dehydrated, and then the process of pickling starts.
Duck Tongue
Well, if you aren’t tired of looking at weird food items sold on the streets in China, we have one more for you. As the name suggests, this dish comprises duck tongues. And no, not just one but multiple duck tongues served together on a skewer. If you have the guts to try it, apparently, it’s quite delicious. The texture is said to be similar to chicken, and the taste is a little like liver.
So if you’re into offal, this might be right up your alley. Make sure you’re getting it from a reputable vendor to avoid health risks. It is usually served with other duck body parts.
Fish Lip Soup
Do you like to eat seafood? If you do, you will love this next dish on our list. Soup made from fish lips might not sound appetizing, but it is a delicious and unique dish found at Chinese street food markets. The soup simmers fish lips in a broth with various herbs and spices.
The result is a flavorful and nutritious soup perfect for a winter meal. It is definitely one of the lighter food items that people with weak stomachs can also try.
Pork Lungs with Chili Sauce
If you are a fan of spicy food, then this one is for you. If you have never eaten animals’ lungs, you are in for a surprise. Pork lungs in chili sauce is a dish that can be found at Chinese street food markets. The dish is made with pork lungs cooked in a spicy chili sauce.
The dish is often served with rice or noodles and can be garnished with green onions, cilantro, and peanuts. Pork lungs in chili sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that will satisfy you.
Duck, Goose or Pork Intestines
This one may not be as weird as most of the other entries on our list, as pork intestines are also eaten in many other parts of the world. In China, people like to dry the intestines of different animals, including ducks, pigs, and geese. The taste is said to be chewy and flavorful. The spices and side sauce make the dish even more delicious.
If you are ever in China, then you should definitely try this at least once. We may not feel comfortable or knowledgeable enough to recommend many food items on this list, but we would definitely recommend this one.
Toads and Frogs
These amphibians are often fried or grilled and served as a tasty snack. While some people may find them off-putting, others find them delicious. Frogs and toads have been consumed for centuries in China and are considered a valuable source of protein.
In addition to being eaten as food, these amphibians are also used in traditional Chinese medicine. The cooking process may be a bit heart-wrenching for some as the chefs kill the frogs by hitting them on the head and boiling them first before carrying on with the cutting and roasting (or frying) process.
White Fungus, Also Known As Snow Fungus
Snow fungus is a type of edible fungi that is often used in Chinese cuisine. It has a subtle, sweet flavor and a chewy texture. Snow fungus is often used in soups and desserts. It is high in fiber and rich in antioxidants. Some research suggests snow fungus may help boost the immune system and improve digestive health.
However, there isn’t much research to prove that as many people who don’t have the stomach to eat such things usually throw up and get a disturbed stomach due to trying such unique delicacies.
Turtle Soup
Turtle soup is a traditional Chinese dish that is often considered a delicacy. The soup simmers a whole turtle in water until the meat is tender and adds various herbs and spices for flavor. Turtle soup has a very light and delicate flavor.
The soup is usually clear or slightly reddish in color and is often served with a sprinkle of green onions on top. You can also find turtle soup in other parts of the work, including the United States of America. However, in China, you can find it at a surprisingly affordable rate.
Moose Nose (Stewed)
Moose’s nose is high in fat and cholesterol, but it is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your health. This dish is also high in sodium, so it is important to consume it in moderation. Usually, the nose is stewed, but it can also be roasted or smoked.
Due to its strong flavor, some people may not feel comfortable eating it. However, it is one of the few dishes on our list that is also regularly eaten in Alaska. But honestly, I wouldn’t want to try any dish with ‘nose’ in its name.
Boiled Eggs in Sea Urchin
If you have never tried sea urchins, you are in for a wild ride. Sea urchins can be delicious if prepared in the right manner alongside boiled eggs. The exterior of the sea urchin is covered in spines, which protect the creature from predators. The inside of the sea urchin is filled with a delicious orange-colored flesh that is often compared to the taste of other seafood, such as lobster or crab.
The eggs are a critical component of the dish, providing a rich and creamy contrast to the sea urchin’s delicate flavor. When all these elements are combined, you have a truly delicious and unique dish that is perfect for any seafood lover.
Starfish
You might find salmon, octopus, lobster, crab, and many other sea creatures in restaurants worldwide, but there are very few countries where you can find a starfish dish. In China, starfish are prepared and sold in the Chinese street food market, so you don’t even have to visit a fancy restaurant to try one of these bad boys.
There are many different ways to prepare and eat starfish, but it is often served with ginger and garlic. If you want to try something new and unique on your next trip to China, then stop by the Chinese street food market and try this sea creature.
Scorpions
As someone visiting China for the first time, you might be confused as to why a venomous creature like a scorpion is being sold as a delicacy in the Chinese Street Food market. Well, scorpions have been eaten in China for centuries and are said to have many health benefits.
Scorpions are rich in protein and are a good source of iron, calcium, and selenium. It is very important to get these scorpions cooked by someone who knows what they are doing. Otherwise, you might fill your tummy with the scorpion’s venom.
Rat Meat
Rats are very dirty creatures, and their meat is full of diseases. However, rat meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of China. It is often stewed or stir-fried and served with vegetables. It is believed that when you boil or dry the rat, it kills all the infections however we would like to warn you that it is still not considered safe to eat by international standards.
And to be honest, it is something we would never try. However, if you believe in trying everything once in your life, then you should definitely go for it.
Shark Fin Soup
Shark fin soup is a dish often seen as a status symbol in Chinese culture. The soup simmers shark fins in water to extract their flavor. The fins themselves are relatively tasteless, but they give the soup a thick, gelatinous texture. The dish has been controversial in recent years due to the practice of “finning” sharks – cutting off their fins and throwing the rest of the body back into the ocean to die.
This cruel practice has been banned in many countries but still occurs in some areas of the world. China is the largest market for shark fins, and the demand for soup drives the finning industry.
Pig Brains
Pig brains are a common sight in Chinese street food markets. They are usually served fried or stewed a popular snack among locals and tourists alike. Pig brains are high in protein and fat and have a chewy texture that some people find addictive. If you love to eat pork chops and pork sausages, why not try pig brains?
You never know it might even increase your brain power! It is said that pig brains help to improve memory. So if you are looking for a delicious and healthy snack, head to your nearest Chinese street food market and give pig brains a try!
Blood Tofu
There are different types of Tofu sold in the Chinese Street food market, and blood tofu is one of those. This dish is made with pig or duck blood and is often served as a soup or stew. The tofu is usually white in color and has a firm texture. The taste of blood tofu can be quite strong, and it is often considered an acquired taste.
Many visitors to Chinese street markets will try blood tofu for the first time and either love it or hate it. The Tofu can be served in spicy sauce, making it even more flavorful. No matter your opinion of blood tofu, it is definitely a unique dish worth trying at least once!
Drunken Shrimp
To be clear, these aren’t shrimps with a drinking problem. They are regular shrimp marinated in alcohol and then stir-fried with vegetables. The dish is said to be named after the cooking method, which allows the alcohol to evaporate and infuse the shrimp with its flavor. Drunken shrimp is often served as an appetizer or even the main course.
It is a very delicious food item that anyone can try. As people all over the world eat shrimp, eating drunken shrimp isn’t going to be a problem for many international tourists.
Seahorses
Seahorses are one of the strangest items you can find for sale in a Chinese street food market. These small, horse-like creatures are often dried and sold as a traditional medicinal remedy. In China, seahorses are believed to have various health benefits, including boosting fertility and improving sexual function.
The sea horses are usually put on skewers and then roasted over a grill, giving them their unique crunchy texture. In addition to the health benefits, it is also very popular for its taste. Seeing small horses on skewers in the picture above makes it so weird.
Grasshoppers
There are different types of grasshoppers that you can find in your garden. However, another place where you can find them is in a Chinese street food market. If you are not used to eating insects, grasshoppers may be a good place to start. They have a mild flavor that is not too overwhelming. The most popular way to eat grasshoppers is to fry them. This gives them a crunchy texture that is similar to chips.
You can also find grasshoppers stir-fried with vegetables or in a soup. Grasshoppers are a good source of protein, and they contain vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus. They are low in fat and calories, making them a healthy choice for people trying to lose weight.
Fermented Tofu
Fermented tofu is a type of Chinese street food made from tofu that has been fermented in a brine solution. The tofu has a strong, pungent flavor and a slightly spongy texture. It is often eaten as a condiment or side dish and can also be used in soups and stir-fries.
Fermented tofu is a good source of protein and contains several vitamins and minerals. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight. But not everyone looking to lose weight has the guts to eat this.
A 1000 y.o. Egg
Disclaimer: it’s not really a thousand years old lol! In order to prepare it, you have to preserve it in a unique mixture consisting of ash, clay, rice, and quicklime. The egg needs to stay in this mixture for several weeks. Some people even keep the eggs preserved for months. The result is a dark brown or black egg with firm whites and a creamy yolk with a distinct flavor. The process of making a thousand-year-old egg was developed over 1,000 years ago as a way to preserve eggs.
The high alkalinity of the mixture used to cure the egg changes the protein structure of the egg white, and the yolk takes on a cheese-like texture. The egg looks really bad however if you like to try such unique food items, then this is the one for you. It doesn’t actually taste as bad as it looks. The smell might be a turnoff for some people, but the taste can be quite pleasant.
Dried Lily Buds
This is the first entry on our list that is not a sea creature, animal, or insect. Dried lily buds can be found in many markets throughout China. They are made from the dried buds of the Liliaceae plant and have a strong, unique flavor often used in Chinese cooking. Lily buds are high in iron and are often used as a medicinal herb to treat anemia.
They can be cooked in many different ways. However, they are usually cooked by stir-frying. They can be added to other dishes to add flavor and give them a unique taste, or they can also be eaten on their own as a side dish.
Chicken Testicles
One of the most common meats consumed in China is chicken. While various cuts of chicken are available, some of the more unique items that can be found at a Chinese street food market are chicken testicles and other reproductive organs. These include the ovaries, oviducts, and testes of the chicken, and they are often eaten as a snack. Such organs might be a turn-off for many people.
Even some locals aren’t that interested in trying such food items, but a very large number of people still love eating chicken organs. They can be one of the best things you have ever tried if cooked properly. However, some people aren’t that concerned with the taste, they don’t want to put such an organ in their mouth, even if it belongs to a chicken.