By Kat Hughes
It’s no secret that we Americans love our food. Each state has its own signature dish and produce, which offers plenty of variety to tourists, and county fairs, countless regional chain restaurants, and theme park treats prove America’s love of novelty cuisine. However, not all foods are universally loved by its residents. Over the years, several high-profile studies from INSTACART, AOL, and even Reddit, have uncovered some foods that Americans simply will not touch. From the surprise raisin to the soapy cilantro, and the sacrilegious well-done steak, here are the foods that many Americans have a challenging relationship with.
Oysters
During a poll conducted by INSTACART, oysters were placed in the top three foods that the average American can’t stomach eating.
41% of those polled admitted an aversion to oysters. For many, it was the slimy texture that was off-putting, but for others, it was their snot-like appearance that ruined them.
Beets
Despite their versatility, beets are something that most American households steer clear of. This is a shame as they can be pretty tasty.
Whether pickled or roasted, beets are a great source of antioxidants and are great for gut health. Unfortunately for most, their earthy taste is too much.
Okra
Although a rich source of magnesium and fiber, okra is a sadly overlooked and underappreciated member of the vegetable family.
When questioned on why they don’t eat okra, Americans complained that its slightly slimy consistency when cooked led to an unappealing mouthfeel.
Sweet tea
Somehow, despite America being a nation known for their love of sugar, there is one sweet treat that a large portion of the populace won’t go near – sweet tea.
Although viewed by many as a refreshing way to rehydrate on a hot day, a strong contingent find it simply far too sweet.
Black licorice
Whilst red licorice doesn’t appear to cause too much offense, black licorice placed in second place in INSTACART’s survey of hated foods.
Interestingly, of those questioned, there was a split between different age brackets – with a massive 48% of 18-54’s stating their dislike against just 37% of those aged over 65.
Turkey bacon
During an in-depth survey analyzing eating habits across each of the American states, it was discovered that there was some universality to foods that different areas did and did not like.
One of the most consistent entries on the hated list was turkey bacon. The common gripe was that it definitely tasted nothing like the real thing.
Cilantro
A dash of cilantro works amazingly well in homemade salsa, but be wary when adding it to party dishes as it is an acquired taste.
Across several studies, people have complained that cilantro tastes like soap and has a rather strange and unpleasant texture.
Pickles
Fans of Jersey Shore will know that Snooki is a massive fan of pickles. However, research suggests that she is in the minority.
Despite being a fast food burger staple, the pickle is often asked to be removed, or outright thrown away. It seems some just aren’t a fan of its crunchy tang.
Anchovies
At the top of INSTACART’s list of unliked foods was anchovies. The small fish have also placed high on several other similar polls for a number of years.
The reasons given for their universal dislike are many, but being too salty, and smelling too ‘fishy’ are common issues, and them being served whole is another.
Brussels sprouts
The disdain for brussels sprouts is not just an American thing; those in the United Kingdom and Australia also share the viewpoint.
The reason is that many don’t know how to cook them. Most households only boil them, but the key to making them tasty is to roast them, preferably with bacon.
Olives
Olives were discovered to be the food enemy of a mighty 13 American states during a country wide survey.
It seems that the sharp, salty taste is too much for most Americans. Olives are unwelcome in states including California, Indiana, and Virginia.
Blue cheese
A common feature across studies into American eating habits and tastes is that the nation doesn’t really care for certain types of cheeses.
The worst offender is blue cheese. 33% of the INSTACART study participants called it ‘moldy cheese.’ Its stink and crumbly texture are not appealing, apparently.
Capers
Capers are an acquired taste, with 31% of Americans polled admitting that they couldn’t stand to stomach them.
Strangely, due to their salty and briny taste, many people incorrectly believe that capers are fish. They are instead small plant buds.
Well-done steak
While America is a country that loves its steak, it is important to get the cook correct. Rare, medium, and medium-rare are all fine, but a well-done steak is a crime.
American’s across several states, including Massachusetts and Connecticut, feel so passionate about it that they ranked it as their most hated kind of food.
Fennel
Given American’s aversion to black licorice, it makes sense that fennel is another food that people would rather not eat.
Both fennel and black licorice have an aniseed-forward taste. Fennel’s aniseed notes are less intense than black licorice though, which would explain why only 26% of INSTACART participants hate it.
Coconut
Unlike some other foods reported on this list, coconut is not a flavor profile that many are likely to encounter too often.
According to INSTACART’s report, this is music to the ears of 16% of those surveyed, as they are not fans. Its dry fibrous texture is off-putting and coconut water is viewed as being pretty rancid.
Tripe
Tripe puts most diners off due to the concept alone. The substance is an edible offal found in the stomachs of cows, sheep, and pig, and resembles a gelatinous spiderweb.
The flavor of tripe has also been found to be unappealing. Described as earthy and gamey, tripe is said to have a chewy but tender texture along with a powerful odour.
Turnips
A survey looking into America’s favorite and least favorite vegetable saw the humble turnip top the table on the most hated side of the scale.
The turnip amassed 27% of the vote, with people clearly not keen on its taste. Some reported that their lack of knowledge about how to cook them also put them off.