1 SEP, 2023
Sweta Gupta
Photo: Getty Images
Snake wine is an alcoholic drink made by soaking whole snakes in rice wine or grain alcohol in Vietnam. Originating during China's Western Zhou dynasty, according to traditional Chinese medicine, it helps rejuvenate those who drink it.
Soju, a strong rice wine, is a must-try in South Korea. Interestingly, they blend it with tuna eye fluid for a drink known as "chamchi nunmulju". This "tuna tears shot" creates a jelly-like beverage and is served at seafood spots called "tuna houses".
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This drink from Dawson City, Canada is a shot of Yukon Jack or tequila with a real human toe touching your lips as you drink. Louie Liken, a frostbitten rum runner, lost his toe, and decades later, it emerged from a jar to join daring bar-goers' drinks.
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Kvass, a Russian summer favourite, is an unusual drink made from rye bread, earning the nickname "fermented black" due to its bread-derived colour.
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Baby mice wine from China and South Korea is a unique concoction believed to cure asthma and liver disease. Baby mice are soaked in rice wine and fermented for 1-2 years, intensifying the flavour for enhanced disease-fighting.
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This Japanese drink with pig placenta and jelly, features a peach flavour and is believed to have regenerative properties. The concept is rooted in the belief that consuming placenta can boost energy, milk production, and combat postpartum depression.
Photo: Kaya's Blog
This drink from Peru Chicha, also known as corn beer, traces its roots to the Incan civilisation. Initially enjoyed at festivals and rituals, the process involves extracting sugar from corn, boiling it, and fermenting it over days, much like modern beer production.
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Kava, made from the intoxicating pepper plant, holds importance in Fijian ceremonies. It's prepared by mixing pounded plant roots with water. Kava is psychoactive and legal in Fiji, but banned in some places.
Photo: royaldavuiislandfiji.com