Delicacies Aged for Years Before You Eat

Century Eggs (China)

Preserved for months up to several years, these eggs develop a jelly-like texture and bold flavor through aging in clay and ash.

Tabasco Sauce (USA)

The iconic hot sauce is aged in white oak barrels for up to 3 years before it’s bottled for that signature tangy kick.

Miso Paste (Japan)

Some varieties of miso ferment for over 3 years to develop deep, umami-rich flavors used in traditional Japanese dishes.

Iberico Ham (Spain)

This luxurious ham is cured for up to 5 years, creating a rich, nutty flavor loved by chefs and food lovers worldwide.

Aged Cheddar (UK)

The most premium cheddar varieties are aged for 10 years or more, developing bold, complex, and crumbly textures.

Puer Tea (China)

This fermented tea improves with age and is often stored for decades. Some vintage batches sell for lakhs per kilogram.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

True Modena balsamic is aged for a minimum of 12 years—sometimes 25 or more—giving it its syrupy consistency and sweet-tart taste.