Ice cream: universally loved, often craved, but sometimes, downright bizarre. You may think you’ve tried it all, from chocolate to pistachio, but the world of ice cream has gotten seriously weird.
Ever wondered what lobster or garlic ice cream tastes like? Maybe you're craving a scoop of squid ink. Get ready to say, “Wait, people eat that?”.
Let's start with one of the strangest so far, but not the strangest at the end of the article! If you’re in Japan why not try some squid ink ice cream? This deep black dessert might look like a Halloween prank, but it’s a savory treat with a hint of the sea. Its briny flavor is an acquired taste, perfect for anyone who doesn’t mind their ice cream tasting a little... oceanic. It’s a popular hit in coastal areas like Hakodate and Sapporo, wanna give it a try? Or pass?
Next up on the flavor rollercoaster is garlic ice cream, found in the garlic capital of the world, Gilroy, California. If you think garlic only belongs in your pasta sauce, think again. This creamy, cold treat delivers an oddly sweet and pungent punch, and somehow, it works (incredible!). Head to the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival for a scoop of this sweet-and-savory concoction. Just make sure to keep some breath mints handy!
You’ve heard of lobster rolls, but lobster ice cream? It’s a real thing in Maine, where seafood reigns supreme. This quirky dessert is made by folding pieces of buttered lobster into sweet vanilla ice cream. For around $6, you can indulge in this salty-sweet delight at Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium. It’s like surf and turf, but colder. And weirder. Much weirder.
Ready for something prickly? Head down to Mexico for some cactus ice cream. Made from the paddle of the prickly pear cactus, this greenish treat has a subtle, fruity flavor with a touch of earthiness. It’s surprisingly refreshing and doesn’t taste as spiky as it sounds. It’s a must-try if you’re in the mood for something truly unique - and it doesn't even sound so strange!
7 Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipes (No Ice Cream Machine)
Video by The Cooking Foodie
In Padova, Italy, at Gelateria da Bepi, locals and tourists alike can sample a flavor so unexpected it borders on outrageous: gorgonzola ice cream. This frozen delight is paired with apple mustard, creating a blend of sweet, spicy, and cheesy all at once. The gorgonzola lends a savory tang that’s perfect for those brave enough to try something outside the sweet box. Are you one of them?
Moving to Bologna, Cremeria Scirocco offers a truly daring flavor: tuna and onion ice cream. This is no dessert - it’s entirely savory, made with caramelized onions and cloves. It’s the perfect dish for those looking to impress guests with a gourmet, mind-bending twist. But beware, it’s not for the faint of heart!
So... Are your taste buds adventurous enough to try these bizarre ice cream flavors? From squid ink to lobster, there’s no shortage of strange scoops out there. Next time you're traveling, ditch the familiar and treat your taste buds to something completely unexpected. After all, life’s too short for boring ice cream!