Italians have a catchy name for a chewy meringue cookie that’s not exactly beautiful but tastes fantastic: brutti ma buoni—meaning “ugly but good.” This label doesn’t just apply to cookies; there’s a whole world of delicious yet unglamorous food to explore.
Social media often showcases beautiful dishes, tempting us with images of perfectly fried artichokes and luxurious cheese boards. But some of the most delicious meals aren’t pretty at all. For instance, take char kway teow from Singapore. This dish features flat rice noodles, cockles or prawns, and various toppings, all stir-fried until they reach a rich, brown color—definitely not Instagram material. Yet, it bursts with smoky, savory flavors that make it irresistible.
Often, the most unattractive foods are rooted in economy and necessity. Traditionally, parts of animals like organs and tails are cheaper yet can be incredibly flavorful when cooked slowly with spices and aromatics. Dishes like Indian fish-head curry and Hungarian goulash exemplify this concept. They may not win any beauty contests, but their hearty flavors tell a story of comfort and resourcefulness.
Renowned chef Anthony Bourdain mentioned that dishes considered “ugly but good,” like tripe, require skill and patience to prepare. These are the meals that bring families together, offering warmth and satisfaction.
It’s also interesting to note how food trends have shifted. In the past, fare like feijoada, a Brazilian black bean stew, was commonplace. Today, there’s a rising popularity of “ugly” foods on social media—part of a broader movement that values flavor over aesthetics. Recently, a survey found that 73% of consumers are more inclined to try traditional dishes over trendy, aesthetic options.
As food culture evolves, it embraces the humble and comforting aspects of cooking. Whether it’s a no-nonsense bowl of stew or a simple yet flavorful noodle dish, good food is ultimately about taste—and that’s what truly matters.
For more unique recipes that celebrate the concept of “ugly but good,” you can visit reputable sources like Food & Wine.
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Flat rice noodles, Brazilian feijoada, lap cheong
