Food is supposed to bring people together, but some dishes do exactly the opposite. The following foods are so divisive that people can’t seem to agree whether they’re culinary masterpieces or total disasters. Some swear by them, others can’t stand the sight (or smell) of them, but one thing’s for sure: everyone has an opinion. What is yours?
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the Writer’s personal beliefs.
White Chocolate
Chefs often use white chocolate in baking. However, there is much conversation about what white chocolate actually is. Some people love it, some hate it, and there are even rumors that it is not real chocolate. We love using high-quality white chocolate in baking recipes. It is creamy, super versatile, and can be easily flavored or colored. Do you agree or disagree?
Blue cheese
Blue cheese is one of those foods that always starts a debate. I’ve tried to like it, really, but the sharp smell and those blue veins don’t work for me. I know people who think it’s rich, tangy, and absolutely delicious, especially on a charcuterie board or crumbled over a salad. But for me, I’ll stick with something a little milder. How about you? Are you team blue cheese or no thanks?
Candy Corn
Candy corn is made of sugar, corn syrup, and artificial coloring, making this one of the unhealthiest and worst-tasting candies in the US. Yet, we all know someone who is the biggest fan!
Pineapple Pizza
Being a huge Italian food fan and someone who has visited Italy several times, I would say pineapple pizza is an absolute no for me! Supporters appreciate the contrasting flavors and argue that the sweetness of the pineapple complements the salty and savory elements, while others claim that the fruit's presence disrupts the traditional pizza flavor profile and I could not agree more.
Black Licorice
Licorice, with its strong and distinctive anise-like flavor, tends to polarize taste buds. Some people like its bold and slightly sweet taste, while others find it overpowering, bitter, or even reminiscent of medicine.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a healthy dairy product often used in European sweet dishes due to its creamy texture and mild flavor. However, some hate its slightly tangy taste and curd-like consistency. Some even find it unappetizing or lacking in flavor.
Blood Pudding
We can safely say that blood pudding is not for everyone. It is a type of sausage made from cooked animal blood, usually mixed with a filler such as oatmeal, barley, or breadcrumbs. Have you tried it before? Or is it too strange and off-putting for you?
Jello
Gelatin-based desserts or salads molded into various shapes, often incorporating fruits, vegetables, or other ingredients, are not as popular as they used to be. Do you still make them? Or are you also skeptical of the weird textures in a jello mold?
Fresh Coriander - Cilantro
The divisive nature of coriander stems from its distinct flavor profile. We love it and cannot imagine Asian-inspired (or Mexican) dishes without it. However, many people often describe it as soapy or overpowering, finding it difficult to appreciate its unique taste.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
While almost everyone loves ice cream, adding a strong herb like mint to the sweet dessert makes some people cringe. Many people prefer to keep the strong taste of mint out of their ice cream, but others disagree. The minty taste goes pretty well with rich chocolate chips, which may be why it is one of the most popular ice cream flavors in the world. The majority of the people have spoken!
Brussels Sprouts
The strong, powerful flavor of Brussels sprouts is not for everyone. The green veggies can be sweet and juicy when cooked correctly, but they can also have a bitter, pungent flavor that turns some people off. The fact that Brussels sprouts are so healthy does add to the appeal of this polarizing vegetable. Are you willing to choke down some Brussels sprouts just to get the nutrients?
Spam
There are plenty of people out there who enjoy this canned meat every single day. Spam and eggs, a Spam sandwich or a nice pie of Spam with a side of veggies can be a complete meal. But while some people open that can of Spam and smile, others are disgusted by the idea of meat in a can. What exactly is it? Why is it so squishy? Is it supposed to be that color? Spam may be a food that no one can ever agree on.
Tofu
So many people love tofu. They even rely on tofu to add some plant-based protein to their vegetarian diet. But other people find tofu absolutely repulsive. The spongy, squishy texture is a little off-putting. But there is just so much you can make using tofu as an ingredient! If you can stomach it.
Olives
Olives have always been a love-it-or-hate-it food in my circle. I know people who could snack on them straight from the jar or drop them into every cocktail without a second thought. Then there are those who can’t even stand the smell, let alone the slippery texture or briny bite. Personally, I’m still not sure where I stand. They’re salty, bold, and completely unapologetic, which might just be why they cause such a strong reaction.
Kale
Kale has always been a tricky one for me. Some days I enjoy it baked into crispy chips or cooked down into something tender and flavorful. But raw kale in a salad? I still can’t get on board. I know people who absolutely love it, especially the baby version, while others won’t touch it no matter how it’s prepared. Between its texture, bitterness, and endless ways to prepare it, kale is definitely one of those foods that stir up strong opinions.
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