The world may have its barriers — literal or language-wise — but if there's one thing we all universally enjoy, it is, without a doubt, food. This is why besides culture-tripping and sightseeing, travelling wouldn't be complete without a thrilling gastronomic experience. But while some steer closer to delicacies that are somewhat familiar, nothing beats the excitement of treating your tastebuds to something unique and maybe even bizarre, but still nothing short of being scrumptious.
So as fellow foodies who wouldn't want you missing the goods on your next trip, we decided to line up some weirdly good Asian snack foods that will have your brows raising but your tummies rumbling.
Matcha ramen and gyoza (Japan)
Love matcha? Then a visit to Uji in Kyoto is a must-do for you. Besides heading to Byodoin Temple, which is a landmark found at the back of the 10 yen and visiting Omotesando to bask in many matcha tea shops and restaurants, make sure you also give matcha takoyaki and gyoza a try. The sound of both may drive even the most matcha-loving people away, but you would be surprised at how subtle but noticeable the flavour is.
The thing is, for the ramen, it's not exactly the soup that's spiked with matcha but the noodles, giving it a nice grainy texture reminiscent of soba. The matcha gyoza, on the other hand, is still as snackable as ever, and you can even enhance the flavour by sprinkling on some matcha salt. So much for matcha, right?
Sau Rieng Chien Gion (Vietnam)
Every country has a native fruit that is worth bragging about. The Philippines have their mangoes, Japan has their plump strawberries, and Vietnam has durian. While the fruit may be popular in other regions as well, durian in Vietnam is specifically a must-try because of its incredible taste, vivid yellow colour, and distinct quality. But you know how they say everything is better when fried? Apparently, the same goes with Sau Rieng Chien Gion.
Roughly translated as 'crispy fried durian,' its just as straightforward as it sounds: plump, yellow durian strips are covered with a layer of rice flour and fried in boiling hot oil. Once the durian pops out a bit, it's ready to serve. Many places in Vietnam from Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Nguyen Van Cu Street, and more sell these treats along with durian pancakes and cakes so you'll definitely have your fill of the fruit through the duration of your travel.