15 Recipes the Rest of the World Thinks Are Totally Strange

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Ever wonder what people in other countries eat that makes you go, “Wait, what?” This list has dishes that seem completely normal somewhere but totally strange elsewhere. Some are quirky, some are shocking, and some are just plain surprising. It’s a fun look at how diverse and creative the world of food can be, and maybe you’ll discover something new to try.

Pickled Shrimp

 

Shrimp gets marinated in vinegar, onions, and spices for a tangy, refreshing treat. Many outside the U.S. find this Southern pickled seafood surprisingly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp

Coca-Cola Cake With Marshmallows

This chocolate cake surprises outsiders with cola in the batter and a topping of gooey marshmallows. It’s a playful Southern dessert that tastes richer than it seems.
Get the Recipe: Sweetly Southern Coca-Cola Cake With Marshmallows

Tomato Pie

Ripe tomatoes baked in a flaky crust with cheese and herbs make this savory pie a Southern favorite. Outsiders often find the combination unusual but surprisingly comforting.
Get the Recipe: Southern Tomato Pie

Johnny Marzetti

This baked casserole mixes pasta, ground beef, and sauce for a comforting dish. Non-Americans are often puzzled, while Midwesterners see it as a homey classic.
Get the Recipe: Johnny Marzetti

Fried Pickles

Pickles get battered, fried, and paired with creamy Comeback sauce for a crunchy, tangy snack. Many outside the U.S. find frying vegetables in this way very unusual but delicious.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Pickles With Comeback Sauce

Lobster Corn Fritters

Golden corn fritters get a rich upgrade with lobster chunks. This dish blends fancy ingredients with down-home comfort, showcasing bold Southern flavors.
Get the Recipe: Southern Lobster Corn Fritters

Fried Apples

Apples cooked in butter, sugar, and cinnamon become a sweet side dish. Many outsiders find this Southern tradition unusual, yet it’s a cozy, comforting addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Apples

7-Up Cake

Adding soda to cake batter might sound strange, but the fizz keeps this dessert light and moist. To many outside the U.S., it’s one of the quirkiest baking tricks.
Get the Recipe: 7-Up Cake

Creamy Cheesy Green Tomato Casserole

Unripe green tomatoes baked with cream, cheese, and crackers turn humble ingredients into a cozy casserole. It’s a comforting Southern dish that surprises many outsiders with its rich flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cheesy Green Tomato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Mashed sweet potatoes topped with toasted marshmallows create a dessert-meets-side dish. Outsiders often find the mix of sweet and savory a surprising but comforting Southern twist.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Hans Rueffert’s Honey-Cumin Okra

Okra gets cooked with honey, cumin, and garlic for a sweet and earthy flavor. Even skeptics of okra often fall for this Southern version after one bite.
Get the Recipe: Hans Rueffert’s Honey-Cumin Okra

Water Pie

This Depression-era pie uses water, sugar, and butter to make a silky, custard-like filling. Outsiders are often amazed that such a simple recipe turns out so creamy and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Water Pie

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy make a hearty breakfast. Outsiders often find this combination unusual but satisfying and full of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Southern Biscuits And Gravy