10 Unusual Foods and How They’re Made: A Culinary Journey Around the World

2. Hákarl – Iceland’s Fermented Shark

Where: Iceland

How It’s Made: Hákarl is made from Greenland shark, which is toxic when fresh. To make it edible, the shark meat is buried in gravel or sand and allowed to ferment for several months. Afterward, it is hung to dry, resulting in a chewy texture and ammonia-rich smell. Traditionally, it’s eaten in small cubes with a shot of Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps).