The World’s Weirdest Vegetarian Foods

By Afiur
June 04, 2026

Black Sesame Soup

This thick dessert soup made from ground black sesame seeds has an intense nutty flavour and striking charcoal black appearance.

Casu Marzu Cheese

This controversial Sardinian cheese becomes soft and creamy through fermentation, making it one of the world’s most unusual vegetarian dairy foods.

Century Egg

These preserved eggs develop dark jelly like whites and creamy green yolks after weeks of curing in clay, ash, and salt mixtures.

Durian Desserts

Durian’s strong smell divides opinion worldwide, but the fruit is widely used in vegetarian sweets, ice creams, sticky rice desserts, and pastries.

Fried Cactus

Nopales, or cactus paddles, are commonly grilled or fried in Mexican cuisine and have a slightly slimy yet refreshing texture.

Natto

Made from fermented soybeans, natto is known for its sticky texture, stringy consistency, and strong aroma, often eaten with rice for breakfast.

Stinky Tofu

This fermented tofu is famous for its extremely strong smell, but fans love its crispy exterior and soft, flavourful centre.

Surströmming-Inspired Fermented Potatoes

Certain Nordic fermented potato preparations are known for their powerful smell and tangy taste, developed through traditional preservation methods.

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