delicacy Recipes
15 delicious delicacy recipes from around the world
Lutfisk
A traditional Swedish Christmas delicacy, Lutfisk is made from dried whitefish (stockfish) that has been treated with a lye solution. This process rehydrates and softens the fish, giving it a unique, gelatinous texture. It's a dish that evokes strong opinions – either loved or disliked.
Percebes (Portuguese Gooseneck Barnacles)
Percebes, or gooseneck barnacles, are a highly prized and unique delicacy from the Portuguese coast. Their intense, briny flavor and tender texture are best enjoyed with minimal preparation. This recipe focuses on highlighting their natural taste.
Balut (Filipino Fertilized Duck Egg)
Balut is a fertilized duck egg with a developing embryo that is boiled and eaten from the shell. It is a popular street food and delicacy in the Philippines, often enjoyed with salt or spiced vinegar.
Kibbeh Nayeh
A traditional Lebanese delicacy, Kibbeh Nayeh is a finely textured raw lamb and bulgur dish, seasoned with spices and served with olive oil. It's a testament to the freshness of ingredients and the trust between the cook and the diner.
Zui Xia (Drunken Shrimp)
Zui Xia, or Drunken Shrimp, is a traditional Jiangsu delicacy where live shrimp are marinated in Shaoxing wine, allowing the alcohol to 'cook' the shrimp. This dish is known for its delicate texture and potent wine aroma. It's important to use exceptionally fresh, live shrimp for this preparation.
Molleja (Argentine Grilled Sweetbreads)
Molleja, or sweetbreads (thymus gland), are a prized delicacy in Argentine asado. This recipe focuses on grilling them to a perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior, served simply with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Mollejas (Argentine Sweetbreads)
Mollejas, or sweetbreads (thymus glands), are a highly prized delicacy in Argentina, especially during an asado (barbecue). This recipe focuses on achieving a perfectly grilled exterior with a creamy, tender interior.
Quesadilla de Huitlacoche
Corn fungus quesadilla - the truffle of Mexico folded into a fresh masa quesadilla. Earthy and luxurious, this dish highlights the unique flavor of huitlacoche.
Isi Ewu (Spicy Goat Head)
Isi Ewu is a highly sought-after Igbo delicacy, featuring tender pieces of goat head simmered in a rich, spicy, and aromatic palm oil-based sauce. This dish is traditionally served hot and is a popular choice for celebrations and social gatherings.
Kitfo
A traditional Ethiopian delicacy, Kitfo is a finely minced raw beef dish seasoned with aromatic spices and clarified butter. It's often served with traditional accompaniments like Ayib (a mild, fresh cheese) and Gomen (braised collard greens). This recipe details the preparation of raw Kitfo, with an option for lightly warming it.
Kitfo (Authentic Ethiopian Steak Tartare)
An authentic Ethiopian delicacy, Kitfo is a finely minced raw beef dish traditionally seasoned with niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) and mitmita (a fiery chili powder blend). It's a beloved dish for meat connoisseurs, often served with traditional accompaniments. This recipe includes instructions for both the traditional raw preparation and the 'leb leb' (lightly warmed) version.
Nkwobi
A rich and spicy Igbo delicacy, Nkwobi features tender cow foot coated in a vibrant, emulsified palm oil sauce, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. It's a popular bar snack, often enjoyed with a cold drink.
Skilpadjies (Lamb Liver Wrapped in Caul Fat)
A traditional South African braai (barbecue) delicacy, skilpadjies are small parcels of lamb liver, seasoned and wrapped in caul fat, then grilled over coals until the fat is rendered and crispy, and the liver is tender and cooked through. The name translates to 'little tortoises' due to their appearance when cooked.
Sydney Rock Oysters
Experience the delicate sweetness and briny ocean flavor of Australian native Sydney Rock Oysters, best enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lemon and a classic mignonette sauce. A true delicacy.
Witchetty Grub
A traditional Aboriginal bush tucker delicacy, witchetty grubs are wood-boring larvae that can be enjoyed raw or cooked. When cooked, they develop a nutty flavor reminiscent of scrambled eggs with a crispy exterior.