In a global celebration of diverse cuisines, online food portal Taste Atlas recently unveiled its crowd-sourced list of the “100 Worst Rated Dishes In The World,” sparking heated debates among food enthusiasts. Topping the list is Iceland’s Hakarl, a dish made from fermented shark flesh, but what caught many by surprise was India’s representation in the rankings, with the beloved Aloo Baigan securing the 60th spot.
Hakarl, crafted from cured Greenland and sleeper shark meat, undergoes a lengthy three-month fermentation process, followed by an additional four to five months of hanging and drying. Despite its pungent aroma, enthusiasts suggest that, when paired with the local spirit brennivin, the taste becomes more tolerable. However, the global consensus places Hakarl at the forefront of culinary dislikes.
The second spot is occupied by the Ramen Burger, a fusion dish born in Brooklyn, New York, in 2013. Featuring ramen noodle buns and a meat patty, it has been criticized as an unnecessary culinary experiment. Following closely is the Yerushalmi kugel, a Jewish casserole with delicately cooked noodles enveloped in caramelized sugar, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
India’s presence on the list at the 60th spot raises eyebrows, with the target being the humble Aloo Baigan. Despite its status as a nostalgic home-style favorite for many, this dish faced unexpected scrutiny on the global stage. Aloo Baigan, a simple preparation of potatoes and eggplant, has its fair share of enthusiasts, but the diverse opinions showcased in the comments section highlight the subjectivity of culinary preferences.
While the list stirred controversy and diverse opinions, it also shed light on lesser-known dishes worldwide, providing an interesting glimpse into the diverse and subjective world of global cuisine.
