Did you know that many insects are edible? In some parts of the world, insects are valuable sources of protein and even delicacies! More than 2 billion people globally eat insects. Edible insects are gaining popularity in the US now. Let’s take a look at edible insects
Currently, the most reliable place to purchase edible insects is online via ecommerce sites like Next Food, Amazon, or EdibleInsects.com. You can also harvest them yourself, if you’re brave enough!
It is important to cook most insects before eating because they commonly carry parasites. Make sure to remove any stingers and wings, and drain the insides of grubs prior to cooking and consuming. There are a few ways to prepare insects, but the most popular is fried. Other ways to cook them are steaming or boiling. A few insects can be eaten raw, but cooking them is the safest way to consume them and make for a better eating experience.
It may surprise you, but here’s a list of insects that are considered edible:
- Grasshoppers
- Crickets
- Ants
- Termites
- Grubs
- Woodlice
- Earthworms
- Stinkbugs
- Scorpions
- Earwigs
- Aphids
- Maggots
- Dragonflies
To fry your edible insects, heat up a few tablespoons of oil (sesame and olive oil are recommended) and add your critters to the pan. Fry with a little salt until crispy! Be sure to enjoy right away, or store them in the fridge/freezer for a few days. Another way to preserve them is to dry them in the sun and store them in an airtight container, consuming as soon as possible.
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