“That Is So Dang Spicy” 10 Foods That Are Barely Edible

Have you ever wondered how our ancestors discovered which foods were safe to eat? Many of the foods we enjoy today were once considered inedible or even poisonous. Recently, people have shared some weird foods online, making people wonder how our ancestors discovered they were edible. From olives to taro root, these foods have fascinating histories that reveal the ingenuity and resilience of early humans.

1. Transforming Olives: A Mysterious Curing Process

Olives are more than just a source of oil! Did you know they can also be cured and turned into tasty food? However, this process is more complex. The first user wonders how our ancestors discovered this intricate technique of transforming bitter olives into a delicious delicacy.

2. Fermenting Cauim: An Ancient Alcoholic Beverage

Have you ever heard of the native Brazilian tribe that creates an alcoholic beverage from a starchy root called Cauim? This fascinating process involves cooking the root, chewing it, and allowing it to ferment. But here's the catch: chewing is necessary because enzymes from our saliva create the sugars required for fermentation! An older woman in a documentary about the tribe wonders how our ancestors figured out this complex process.

3. Puffer Fish: A Dangerous Delicacy

Pufferfish may be a delicacy, but did you know that it takes at least three years for a chef to become qualified to prepare and serve it without risking the consumer's life? With so many other fish options available, why do people continue to take this dangerous gamble? An individual is puzzled by the allure of this dish.

4. Domesticating Wild Almonds: Overcoming Poisonous Risks

Wild almonds are poisonous, but a fascinating mutation significantly reduces their cyanide production. Domesticated very early on, it's a mystery how our ancestors figured out how to cultivate these mutant plants or graft them. Another participant is intrigued by this complex puzzle of how early farmers unlocked the secrets of domesticated almonds.

5. From Cacao to Chocolate: A Complex Transformation

Do you love chocolate? Have you ever wondered about the intricate process that turns cacao beans into the delicious chocolate we enjoy today? It's a multi-step process that involves fermenting the beans, drying them out, roasting them to bring out their flavor, and grinding them into a paste used to make chocolate. Someone is amazed at the effort required to produce this delectable treat!

6. Stinging Nettles: A Spicy Soup Ingredient?

Have you heard of stinging nettles? This prickly plant may cause discomfort when touched, but did you know it's used to make tea and soup in France and Italy? Someone must have had the bravery to put it in their mouth and discover its spicy flavor and medicinal properties. But why would they eat such a prickly plant? A savvy user wonders if, during times of famine or scarcity, people had to consume plants not commonly used as food, leading to the discovery of stinging nettles as a source of sustenance.

7. Mushrooms: Trial and Error in Edibility

Were you aware that tens of thousands of mushroom varieties exist, but merely about twenty of them are considered safe for human consumption? The discovery of edible mushrooms may have resulted from trial and error, with people experimenting to determine which ones were safe to eat. Alternatively, some cultures have longstanding traditions and knowledge of which mushrooms are safe, indicating that this knowledge may have been passed down through generations. One contributor is fascinated by the mystery surrounding the discovery of these delicious fungi.

8. Meringue Mysteries: A Complex Baking Process

Do you love meringue? This delicious dessert requires separating egg yolks from whites, whisking the whites with sugar for an extended period, and baking at a low temperature. It's a delicate process that requires patience and skill, but who came up with the recipe? Despite the invention of electric whisks, some bakers still use the traditional method, appreciating the time and effort of making this sweet treat. One user is amazed by the history and complexity of this beloved dessert.

9. Chilies: The Painful Addition to Cuisine

Have you ever wondered why we add chilies to everything? These spicy peppers are physically painful to eat, so why did someone decide to make them a food ingredient? Research has demonstrated that capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers responsible for their spiciness, possesses properties that can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. The discovery of chilies as a food ingredient likely happened due to their medicinal properties, with someone realizing the benefits of this fiery pepper.

10. Beware: The Dangers of Consuming Raw Taro Root and Leaves

Beware of the Taro root and leaves! This plant can be toxic if not cooked properly, causing a painful burning sensation in the mouth and throat and even leading to death. Despite these dangers, Taro is still sold in supermarkets and is commonly used in many cuisines. The final user is intrigued by the mystery surrounding the discovery of this plant's edibility and the careful preparation required to make it safe to eat.

10 Surprisingly Good American Foods, According to Non-Americans

The United States is famous for many things, including its diverse and delicious cuisine. In a recent online discussion, non-Americans shared their favorite American foods. From classic comfort dishes to unique regional specialties, here are ten American foods that captured the attention of commenters from around the world.

• 10 Surprisingly Good American Foods, According to Non-Americans

10 Surprising Foods Cheese Should Never Go With

Cheese is a beloved food that goes well with many things. From crackers and wine to pizza and burgers, there's no denying the versatility of cheese. However, not every food pairs well with this dairy delight. Recently people have shared several foods that should never be paired with cheese. Get ready for surprising combinations that might make you rethink your next meal!

• 10 Surprising Foods Cheese Should Never Go With

10 Foods People Hated as a Child but Love as an Adult

As children, we tend to be picky eaters and dislike certain foods that we might later grow to love as adults. Recently in an online discussion, people have revealed the foods they once hated but now enjoy. These stories show that taste preferences can change over time and that giving disliked foods a second chance can lead to newfound appreciation.

• 10 Foods People Hated as a Child but Love as an Adult

10 Foods People Insist Taste Better Processed

Many believe homemade food is always superior to processed or pre-packaged options. But is that always the case? In the world of food, certain items people insist taste better when processed. Recently in an online discussion on a platform, people have shared such foods and why they believe they taste better when they're not homemade.

• 10 Foods People Insist Taste Better Processed

10 Gross and Overrated Fast Food Restaurants You Should Avoid

Fast food is a guilty pleasure for many people. While some fast food chains have a cult-like following, others leave much to be desired. A popular AskReddit thread asked users to name fast food places that are “grossly overrated.” The responses were varied and insightful. Here are ten of the most common answers.

• 10 Gross and Overrated Fast Food Restaurants You Should Avoid

Source: Reddit