Acquired Tastes You Need To Try At Least Once

Certain foods and beverages are highly divisive - you either love them or hate them. That said, the love for particular tastes and textures often comes with time and perseverance. Once you can overlook the perceived negative qualities of a specific delicacy, you may come to appreciate its uniqueness. Furthermore, certain acquired tastes hold cultural and historical significance. Instead of instantly turning your nose up at typically polarising culinary products, you may discover something you actually enjoy. Here are some classic acquired tastes you need to try at least once.

Oysters

Oysters are highly nutritious shellfish that have long been associated with luxury cuisine - some even consider them an aphrodisiac. Typically eaten raw with a garnish of lemon juice or hot sauce, the slimy texture of oysters puts many people off. However, if you’ve previously tried an oyster that didn’t appeal to you, perhaps the quality or freshness let it down. Oysters taste their best when consumed as soon after harvesting as possible; hence, a coastal restaurant is an ideal place to get an authentic taste of these saltwater delights in all their glory. 

Nattō

Nattō is a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans, often served as a breakfast food with rice. While the taste of fermented food is polarising enough, the texture of nattō is what many people find hard to overcome. During the fermentation process, bacteria breaks down the proteins in the soybeans, resulting in a slimy, stringy consistency. Those who can get past the initial unfamiliar texture can enjoy benefits such as improved heart health thanks to Nattokinase, a potent natural enzyme and the active ingredient in nattō.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a classic example of an acquired taste. Even the most hardcore cheese lovers are often sceptical of this semi-soft, Penicillium mould-marbled cheese. The sharp, salty, pungent flavour of this cheese may take some time getting used to, but a high-quality French Roquefort or Italian Gorgonzola can be a genuine treat. Balance is the key to enjoying blue cheese, so consider pairing it with slices of apple or pear, even a drizzle of natural honey. 

Anchovies

If the idea of a pizza covered with slivers of anchovy sends a shiver down your spine, you’re not alone. These pungent little fish have a negative reputation for being particularly divisive. However, the way in which they are used as an ingredient can make all the difference. When added sparingly to pasta sauces, salad dressings and dips, these tinned saltwater fish can add a delicious hit of umami and saltiness. Anchovies disintegrate entirely when cooked, leaving behind nothing but flavour. 

Sweet Wine

Whether you’re a self-declared wine connoisseur or simply enjoy the occasional tipple, you likely reach for drier varieties with little residual sugar. Sweet wines, such as German Riesling and French Sauternes, may have had a bad rap in the past for being unhealthy due to high sugar levels; however, this often depends on the variety and quality. An increasing number of wine enthusiasts are starting to view sweet wine in a more positive light as a luscious treat ideal for accompanying dessert courses. 

Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented drink made from tea, sugar, bacteria and yeast. While it may not sound appetising, the health benefits of kombucha are remarkable. Argued to be an excellent source of probiotics and antioxidants, advocates of kombucha claim it supports digestion and boosts the immune system. Tart, fragrant and slightly sweet, this refreshing beverage is reminiscent of dry apple cider and comes in numerous flavours, from lemon and lime to carrot and ginger. You can even make your own kombucha by purchasing a starter for the fermentation process, known as a Scoby. 

Coffee

It may come as a surprise, but the taste of coffee in its purest form is one that many people enjoy. In fact, most of us only enjoy coffee when other ingredients are added, such as milk, sugar and flavoured syrups. While plain black coffee is by no means an unpleasant taste, its bitterness often takes some getting used to. You may find that you come to enjoy the taste of black coffee the more you drink it. Furthermore, the quality of the coffee beans used to make a beverage will significantly impact the taste.