Exploring Unique and Strange Foods That Aren't as Weird as You Think

I've always had an unconventional taste in food. While I might be hesitant to try anything really strange, there are certain foods that really capture my fancy. Here are some unique and unusual foods that my friends and I enjoy, despite their peculiar reputations.

The Not-So-Weird World of Kimchi

Kimchi is one such food that might seem a bit strange at first glance. I have several friends and family members who love Kimchi, and it's become a staple in my household as well. While it might not be the most common dish in the Mid-West USA, it finds its place on the tables of many in our social circle.

Kimchi is not just for vegetarians or vegans. Many of my friends enjoy it regardless of their dietary preferences. For those who subscribe to vegan or vegetarian diets, finding a Kimchi without fish sauce can be a challenge. I either have to make it myself (my success rate is around 50%) or travel 40 minutes to a nearby Korean market where the only vegan/vegetarian options are white radish and cucumber Kimchi, which differ significantly from the traditional bok choy Kimchi.

In addition to enjoying Kimchi itself, there's an added bonus - the leftover salted cucumber water, which can be consumed as a refreshing drink. While many people are familiar with cucumber water, how many know to add salt for an extra kick?

A Quickie Cheat Recipe for Cucumber Kimchi

While traditional cucumber Kimchi might take a good amount of time to prepare, here's a quick and easy recipe for those who don't have the patience for a full fermentation process. This 'quickie' version is perfect for those who want to enjoy the tangy flavor of Kimchi without going through all the steps:

Cucumber Kimchi (Oi Sobaegi) Recipe

Ingredients:

3-4 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and sliced thinly 1/4 cup salt 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional, for those who can tolerate it) 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste) 2 teaspoons sugar 2 teaspoons pine nuts (optional)

Instructions:

Combine the salt, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and chopped chilies in a large bowl. Mix well. Add the sliced cucumbers to the mixture and mix thoroughly to coat the cucumbers evenly. Transfer the mixture to a jar, pressing down firmly to release any excess air and brine. Avoid overfilling the jar; leave about an inch of headspace. Add a weight or a smaller jar on top of the cucumbers to help them stay submerged in the brine. Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a minimum of 24 hours. I recommend letting it sit for a few days for a more pronounced flavor. Once ready, store the Kimchi in the refrigerator.

Delicious and Surprisingly Popular Pickled Squash

Another food that has captured the attention of both my taste buds and my friends' is pickled pattypan squash. It's a unique vegetable that, like most squashes, is rich in nutrients and low in calories. The added bonus is that it's still full of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice.

Pattypan squash, also known as scallop squash, is a less-common variety of summer squash that's often found in gourmet or specialty markets. To prepare pickled pattypan squash, simply cut the squash into slices and place them in a jar with a mixture of white vinegar, salt, and spices. Let it sit for a day or two, and you'll have a delicious, tangy pickled treat perfect for any salad or a snack.

Why Drink Pickle Vinegar?

Now, let's talk about the infamous pickle vinegar. You might be surprised to hear that some of us actually enjoy drinking the vinegar after it's been used to pickle our favorite vegetables. It's an acquired taste, but believe me, once you try it, you'll be hooked. You can use it as a condiment or even as a marinade for meats or fish.

Lovely Peanut Butter and Onion Sandwiches

My mom's peanut butter and onion sandwiches are a staple in our home. This simple yet tasty sandwich combines creamy peanut butter with the savory flavor of fresh onions to create a delicious and satisfying meal. These sandwiches are not only delightful but also offer a unique flavor combination that's hard to resist.

A Surprising Love for Salted Seaweed

The final food that has garnered a special place in my heart is salted seaweed. It might seem like an odd choice, but a little package of salted seaweed sheets can be a delightful and refreshing snack. The combination of the sea's briny taste with the crunch of the seaweed is hard to beat. These sheets are not only tasty but also offer a variety of minerals and trace elements that can benefit your health.

In conclusion, while some foods might seem strange at first glance, they can become true favorites when given a chance. Whether it's Kimchi, pickled pattypan squash, or salted seaweed, these unique foods have become an integral part of my culinary journey and my social circle's tastes. So, the next time you come across something unusual in the grocery store, don't be afraid to give it a try – you might just find a new favorite!

Keywords: kimchi, pickled pattypan squash, salted seaweed