Just because you can’t pronounce it (let alone prepare it), doesn’t mean you should avoid exotic foods altogether. Eden Grinshpan, host of Cooking Channel’s Eden Eats, thinks men should expand their palates. “If you can relate an ethnic food to something you already have in your pantry, you can substitute it with something that’ll lend an exotic flair to your dishes,” Grinshpan says. “And you could really impress a date if you whip her up something new and adventurous to try.”
<p class='slide-count'>1 of 13</p><img width="1109" height="614" src="/uploadfile/2024/1227/20241227111545806.jpg"><p class="photo-credit">BURCU ATALAY TANKUT / Getty</p>Persimmon
The peel of Japan’s national fruit may help reduce signs of aging.
SEE ALSO: 11 Tools To Battle Signs Of Aging
Cupuacu
The next big superfruit. It’s rich in anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids and can help increase libido.
Coconut Milk
It’s high in fiber and great for your prostate, skin, and bones. Substitute it for water when steaming rice, or throw it into a protein shake.
SEE ALSO: Fiber Fixes To Fight Hunger & Promote Health
Saffron
The most expensive spice in the world, saffron enhances fertility, relieves anxiety and tension, and even helps improve eyesight. A little goes a long way.
SEE ALSO: 5 Spices To Boost Your Metabolism
Brazil Nuts
High in magnesium and selenium, Brazil nuts are a complete protein source. Add them to trail mix or snack on a handful before a workout for an energy boost.
SEE ALSO: Brazilian Nuts – The One-Stop Shop For Selenium
Ginger
Chew on raw ginger when you’re feeling nauseous. Grate or roughly chop and add (with onions) to sautéed dishes to add more heat.
SEE ALSO: Ginger: Superfood For Super Training
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Kimchi
A Korean fermented cabbage, kimchi is loaded with vitamins A, B, and C, but its biggest benefit may be its healthy probiotics, which aid in digestion. Use it instead of pickles in turkey sandwiches, or add to stir-frys and rice dishes.
SEE ALSO: Eat Right To Beat Seasonal Blues
Papaya
An excellent source of fiber; vitamins A, C, and E; and antioxidants. Great for chutneys, salads, and sauces.
SEE ALSO: Best Fruit For Bodybuilding
Durian Fruit
This porcupine-like fruit reeks once opened. But if you can get past the stench, you’ll be rewarded with a creamy, tangy fruit that’s high in iron and fiber, and, Grinshpan adds,“is a powerful aphrodisiac.”
SEE ALSO: Performance-Enhancing Durian Fruit Smoothie Recipe
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Harissa
A Tunisian hot sauce that’s great with meats and stews, it’s high in vitamin C, and may help fight inflammation, torch fat, and lower blood pressure. Use sparingly: Harissa can burn your mouth, Grinshpan warns.
SEE ALSO: 6 Spicy Recipes To Help Burn More Fat
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Sardines
These oily fish may be small, but they’re packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Sardines pro-mote heart health and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Grill them three minutes per side, Grinshpan says. Or wrap them in grape leaves to hold them together and for added flavor.
SEE ALSO: Power Snack: Cheesy Sardines Recipe
Tahini
A toasted sesame paste found in North African cuisine, it adds a nutty flavor to hummus and sauces. Tahini is supposed to increase blood flow in your arteries, which is why it’s good for your sex drive.
SEE ALSO: Snack For Gains: Butternut Hummus
Turmeric
This spice is an anti-inflammatory and liver detoxifier and aids with weight management and cancer prevention. “It is subtle, earthy, and adds great color to your dishes,” says Grinshpan, who uses it in curries and chicken marinades.
SEE ALSO: Alleviate Joint Pain With Turmeric