Canned goods are very popular products for lazy cooks. They can save you on more than one occasion, if you are in a hurry or if you do not have a kitchen at hand. In addition, there are more and more gourmet and quality proposals. But sometimes what for some is a real delight, for others can be something totally disgusting. We have compiled some of the most peculiar canned foods in the world, which not everyone would be willing to try. And you, would you eat them?
Smoked snake
We start strong with this can of smoked snake. 100% snake meat in a rich broth that can be eaten directly from the can, or over some rice or pasta, according to the brand. In addition, they point out that the meat also contains bones that must be removed before eating. Would you eat it? They sell it for less than 22€.
Sweet potatoes in syrup
Who said peach in syrup? Now the new trend is sweet potato in syrup. It will be the tastiest accompaniment for your dinners. And for only 1,50€.
Gumbo soups
I’m sure you’ve seen similar looking cans in many supermarkets. This is a typical New Orleans stew in two ‘succulent’ versions of grilled chicken and sausage, although with quite different prices: 18€ vs. 1,65€.
Alce
Another product that can generate a lot of controversy because some elk species are in danger of extinction.
Chicken Tamales
It is a typical Mexican dish. This time, as explained in the product description, these tamales are simmered in a spicy chili sauce and are described as excellent fast food, as they contain no artificial ingredients. You can get them for less than 2€.
Giblet with honeycomb belly
The menudo is a traditional Mexican soup, made with beef belly in broth with a red chile base. As explained in the description, this product is prepared with “first quality” tripe. And they advise you to serve it with oregano, chopped onion and a squeeze of lime to bring the flavors of Mexico to your table for about 6€.
Bee larvae, sea lion and bear
These are just a few curious examples of canned food sold at Sugoi Mart, a well-known online store in Japan, which also offers products of all kinds, not just food and drink.
Haggis (sheep viscera)
Haggis is a typical Scottish sausage and is prepared with sheep viscera, specifically sheep’s heart, liver and lungs. They are then minced together with onion, kidney fat, oatmeal, salt and spices. For 17€ you can buy this can.
Pork brains with milk sauce
It is a food that is quite integrated in the kitchen, but many people are still repulsed by the thought of it. On this occasion, perhaps the milk sauce will give it another touch.
Frog legs
Although this is a food that is often mentioned when talking about rare or exotic products, it is still a peculiar gastro proposal. These frog legs are prepared by a qualified chef and fried in a wok over high heat with garlic and pepper before being canned and pasteurized. According to them, frog meat is a white meat of high nutritional value, possessing ten essential amino acids for humans, containing no fat, no cholesterol and very high digestibility.
Strawberry or grape sandwiches
Another option for lazy people, although it is really just like any other industrial bun. But this time the peculiarity is that it comes in a can.
Vegan chorizo
Don’t let the name mislead you. This is a plant-based product. In the description they go so far as to say that it is “better than the real taste, classic chorizo flavor, in a plant-based meatless crumble”. That’s nothing!
Chicken and cheese soup with enchilada or clam chowder
Other concoctions that could be found in any supermarket around here, but whose appearance is perhaps questionable.
Boiled peanuts with cajun
Juicy, moist and appetizing? boiled peanuts with a Cajun twist will serve as a different kind of snack, although in parts of the United States it is more than typical. The peanuts are boiled in a blend of traditional Cajun spices, including red peppers, onions and garlic. Yummy!
Sago worms
They are sago worms canned in salt water brine. They are considered a real delicacy in Southeast Asia, especially in Malaysia. As described, they have a creamy taste when raw, and taste like bacon or meat when cooked. They cost about €12 per 420 g can.
Weaver ant eggs
Weaver ant eggs are another delicacy in Asia, but this time from Thailand. As described in the store, the eggs have a creamy, nutty flavor and are often served in spicy salads, on toast or mixed with a soup of your choice. Locals prepare them with shallots, lettuce, chilies, lime and spices, and serve them with sticky rice. The price is also around 12€.
Cajun alligator
If you are looking to escape from the typical chicken or pork, here is a more ‘wild’ option. Cajun-style alligator in its purest form. They even recommend adding it to the soup broth, or prepare a sauce with the juice, add meat and serve it over pasta, rice or potatoes. For less than 12€ you can buy it.
Whole peeled potatoes
Do you find it hard to peel potatoes? Well, this can will do that ‘dirty’ work for you, and for only 80 cents. Plus, you’re guaranteed a fresh, long-lasting flavor. They are ready in just a few minutes.
Canned bread
Inside this tin is a loaf of white bread that, according to the website, has a shelf life of 10 years from the date of packaging. Goodbye to bread that looks like stone or moldy a few days after opening the package.
Paella valenciana
Although Valencians always question any recipe that is not made according to the traditional rite, it seems that this product from El Paeller has been approved and with a good grade by the public. It is a proposal of the mestre paeller Rafa Margós, with which you will be able to prepare an authentic paella in only 18 minutes. The secret is above all in the broth. In addition, the pack is accompanied by the prepared meat and vegetables and rice. You can get it for 17,90€.
