Not every food is a treat for your nose—some dishes hit you with a smell so strong, you question if eating them is even a good idea. But here’s the thing: these stinkers are actually incredible once you get past the initial funk. From sharp cheeses to fermented favorites, these foods might not win any fragrance awards, but they sure deliver when it comes to flavor.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut might have that in-your-face, sour and fermented smell that can clear a room. But pair it with a bratwurst or in a Reuben, and its tangy, crunchy goodness totally transforms a meal.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts: infamous for their, let’s say, ‘distinctive’ smell when cooked (thank you, sulfur compounds!). But roast these little guys to perfection, and their crispy, slightly sweet taste will make you forget all about the funk. Wrap them in bacon first and they’re even more irresistible.
Hard Boiled Eggs
Ever peeled a hard-boiled egg and got a whiff of that sulfurous, kind of eggy smell? Yeah, not great. But bite into one, especially with a dash of salt, and it’s like creamy, protein-packed heaven.
Durian
Durian, the ‘king of fruits’, smells… well, let’s be real, kind of like old gym socks. But brave the aroma, and you’re rewarded with a custard-like, sweet and creamy treat that’s wildly popular in Southeast Asia.
Kimchi
Ah, kimchi! This Korean superstar might knock your socks off with its bold, tangy aroma from fermentation. But get past the smell, and you’re in for a spicy, garlicky flavor adventure that’s addictively good.
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky’s strong, smoky scent can be a bit much at first sniff. But it’s the ultimate savory snack with a chewy, flavor-packed punch that’s hard to resist. Just be nice and don’t open a fresh bag on a plane unless you want your row-mate to hate you.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese: it’s funky, it’s moldy, and it smells like feet. But in a strange twist of fate, it’s creamy, tangy, and richly flavorful in a way that’s just magical on a cracker or in a salad. Pair it with steak on crostini – you’re in for a treat!
Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is like the ocean’s version of a stink bomb. But this umami bomb adds a depth of flavor to dishes that’s unmatched – a little dash goes a long way in transforming a recipe. Use it in a quick stir fry like this cashew chicken skillet and you won’t be disappointed by its flavor.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower on its own? Meh. But roast it and it lets off a not-so-pleasant odor. The payoff? A crispy, nutty delight that’s a game-changer for your taste buds.
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs have that unmistakable, processed meaty smell that’s a bit… intense. But let’s be honest, grilled up and loaded with toppings, they’re the star of any BBQ. Just steer clear of them boiling in a pot of water unless you want to gag.
Papaya
Papaya’s got this weird, musky aroma that’s a bit off-putting. But get past that, and its juicy, tropical sweetness is like a mini getaway for your taste buds. It’s great blended into smoothies to mask that funky taste too.
How Food Companies Are Secretly Hijacking Your Taste Buds
Ever wonder why you can’t stop munching on that bag of chips or why soda tastes so irresistible? It’s not just your lack of willpower — food companies use some pretty sneaky tactics to keep you hooked. From artificial flavors to hidden sugars, they’re experts at manipulating your taste buds to make you crave more. You’ll probably be surprised to learn just how much science and strategy goes into making your favorite snacks so addictive.
Read it Here: How Food Companies Are Secretly Hijacking Your Taste Buds
13 Foods That Taste Better Burnt (Yes, Really)
We’ve been conditioned to think burnt food is a disaster, but sometimes that extra char is exactly what makes a dish great. You know those crispy edges or that slightly blackened layer? Turns out, they’re the unsung heroes of the culinary world. There’s a fine line between ruined and just right, and these foods walk it perfectly.
Read it Here: 13 Foods That Taste Better Burnt (Yes, Really)
Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
